10/10 Excellent
Crusader
11 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Bohemian punk hospitality at its St Kilda best
Tolarno iS iconic in Melbourne. I remember it as an art gallery in the 1980s, when it was the scene of incredibly diverse exhibitions, managed by George Mora, the son of gallery founders, George and Mirka Mora. Mirka is renowned for her painting illustration work, with its distinctive patterning. Tolarno is a brilliant hotel conversion. Art is everywhere, distinctive recognisable art of diverse media and style. In some areas it is as if pieces of gallery have been hewn from the old walls and repurposed to continue its education and entertainment roles here. Tolarno was known for its hearty food, generosity of spirit and hospitality. All of those qualities are on display now, and the staff generate a welcoming vibe even when they are not around. One never feels stranded. The rooms are comfortable and well maintained, with a strong character of homey architecture before the ubiquitous marble, plastic and flat plasterboard of contemporary hostelries. There are no lifts and rooms are on various levels, making the place inaccessible to many, but its lack in this area probably contributes to its incredible affordability. You are right in the midst of Fitzroy Street here and on the quieter side of the street. I heartily recommend Hotel Tolarno.
Crusader
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025