Mr & Mrs Smith

The Cullen was great, particularly considering how affordable it as. The bed was outrageously comfortable, the food was delish and the staff unobtrusive but friendly. The artwork is not for everyone but the hotel has committed to what it set out to be, which is the only way to do it when you have art as controversial (compared to the usual hotel art anyway) as the Cullen's. The room was very spacious and the bathroom was well equipped. I also had to extend my stay last-minute and the hotel was entirely accommodating. They are also tied to Hu Tong dumpling bar so you can pop down for fab dumplings and charge it back – always handy. Overall, very cool and a welcome addition to Prahran.

Love, love, love The Cullen. Awesome hotel, great location and the staff are fabulous. They're also child friendly and greeted my 10-year-old niece with a little art pack, complete with canvas paints and brushes, she was over the moon. We also had a great Italian meal around the corner at Ladro in Greville Street, amazing pasta and wood-fired pizza. Looking forward to our next stay.

We ate at a lovely restaurant called Ilona Staller (282 Carlisle St, Balaclava). The octopus carpaccio was a must and the marinara pasta was excellent as well, reasonably price and great atmosphere but get there early because they don't take bookings.