Award winning Wedding video

Ardour filmed our wedding a couple of years ago and did a fantastic job. They won a Wedding Video award with our video and people comment that it was cut like a video clip you would see on Video Hits. Not sure if the same guys are still running it now but they are definately worth a look.

Approximate cost: $0

Good haircuts at reasonable prices - both sexes

I've been going to HQ Studio for the last year and they do a good job. I wouldn't say they are a high fashion salon but for what I want they are fine.

Approximate cost: $25

Best chinese food in Melbourne but not worth the money

The Flower Drum is well known as one of Melbourne's finest restaurants. We decided to go there with another couple for a celebration dinner last year. Immediately when you walk in, you think "is this really one of the most expensive restaurants in Melbourne?". The decor and fitout remind you of just about every other 1980's built chinese restaurant you've ever been too, but with a little bit more class. They could certainly do an overhaul on the fitout. In line with other high-end restaurants there is a waiter to guest ratio of about 1:2 which can get a bit annoying as you always feel like there is someone hovering over your shoulder.

Approximate cost: $80

Ice-cream concept that doesn't live up to the hype

Cold Rock has a novel way of creating your ice-cream. The idea is that you choose a base ice-cream flavour and then choose things to put in it e.g. M&M's, Crunchies and even uncooked Cookie dough!! The name comes from the bench they use that is literally a Cold piece of rock. This ensures the ice-cream doesn't melt while they work your selected extras into it.

Approximate cost: $5

Almost the Best Gelato in Melbourne

7 Apples is becoming an institution in Acland St. and a must-have dessert after dining in the area. They were the first upmarket Gelato bar in Melbourne and the quality of their product is fantastic.

Approximate cost: $5

Good bike shop with a reasonable range and good service

Recently my friend and I wanted to both wanted to buy a bike so we went down to Bicycle Superstore. The staff were friendly and in less than an hour we walked out with orders for 3 bikes (his girlfriend decided to get one as well so we got a bigger discount). Unfortunately the salesperson hadn't checked the stock levels properly and it took nearly 2 weeks for the bikes to be ready (he originally told us 3-4 working days). Overall we were happy with the service and they offered to deliver the bikes for free because of the mucking around

Approximate cost: $0

Expensive food with no atmosphere or service

I remember going to Dendy Deli as a kid growing up in the Bayside area and it was known as one of the best cafe's in the area. I returned there recently with my kids for lunch. The prices are astronomical for quite average food, no gourmet here. The kids menu had nothing under $10! Also the owner is rude and arrogant. I think they are just complacent because they've been there so long and the only competition is The Pantry, although there are now a few other alternatives opening up, Thank god!

Approximate cost: $16

Fantastic Traditional Chinese Massage

I was given a gift voucher for my birthday to have a massage at this centre. Rebecca is a great person and very good at what she does. She performs other types of Chinese therapies including acupuncture.

Approximate cost: $0

Huge burgers make for a modern take-away experience

These modern burger joints are popping up all over Melbourne. The burgers are massive, the chips are fat and the aoli is a must. I like the Delhi Satay beef burger with their special capsicum relish.

Approximate cost: $13

Renowned Malaysian cuisine in a cosy atmosphere

Chinta Ria Soul has been a part of the Acland St. landscape as long as I can remember. It is a small 2-storey restaurant with a Soul music theme. There are photos all over the walls of Soul musicians. They also have Chinta Ria Jazz in Prahran and Chinta Blues right up the Fitrzoy St. end of Acland St.

Approximate cost: $16