"When we hear that Melbourne, a seriously cool city with a seriously lacking hotel scene, has an opening with buzz, we pay attention. United Places seems sophisticated in a way that's right for the city: Twelve minimalist suites have terraces overlooking Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens, brass fixtures, Loom textiles, dark marble tubs, and butler service. But in this foodie city, the true test will be Matilda, the on-site restaurant from local chef Scott Pickett, formerly of ESP." —E.F." - Rebecca Misner, Erin Florio