Şener Besim is the luxury eyewear label to know, recently introduced to Parlour X. Raised in Melbourne to Albanian and Turkish parents, his namesake eyewear collection embodies the merging of cultures where freedom and design meet tradition and technical excellence. For the X-FILES, Şener shares Melbourne’s best kept city secrets.

What is unique to Melbourne?

Melbourne is unique in that it has a strong multicultural undertone that is evident within its progressive restaurant and culinary scene.

What's your favourite hotel?

The Lyall in South Yarra is understated and has a lot of character.

What are your top breakfast and lunch locations?

The European in Spring street is my top breakfast pick.

Baby - for breakfast but also lunch and dinner. Baby is like a European brasserie, consistently good food with no pretence!

What are your top dining experiences?

Kisume - modern Japanese. The sashimi is on another level and fit-out is exceptional with Polly Borland and Araki prints for me show a high-end appreciation for fine arts photography on a credible level.  

What are the best cultural and art experiences to enjoy?

M Pavilion and National Gallery of Victoria without question but also The Percy Grainger Museum at the University of Melbourne is one the city’s best secrets. The early 20th century composer and musician's weird and wonderful collections housed in a specially designed building is as eccentric and inspirational as the man himself.

Nearby escapes?

Jackalope in the Mornington Peninsula, love in Winter.

Describe Melbourne style.

Black, tailored and serious.