The Melbourne Cup lunch is an important part of Australian culture. It is a tradition that has been celebrated for over 150 years and has become an integral part of the Australian way of life. It’s a time when people come together to celebrate and enjoy the excitement of the race.
These events are an opportunity to socialize, dress up, and enjoy delicious food and drinks with friends and colleagues. From the traditional fresh seafood and free flowing champagne, Melbourne Cup lunch offerings span a range of styles choose a casual pub meal or a fine dining feast. It’s up to you! We have pulled together some of Sydney’s best Melbourne Cup lunch offerings so you can find the best one for you and your friends.
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Melbourne Cup is on Tuesday 5 November 2024
The race that stops the nation, the Melbourne Cup is also one of the biggest lunch events in Australia. It’s an essential part of the Melbourne Cup experience, an opportunity to socialize, dress up, and enjoy delicious food and drinks.
The Melbourne Cup was first run in 1861 and has been held every year since, except during the World Wars
It’s also an opportunity to network and build relationships. Many businesses use the Melbourne Cup lunch to entertain clients and colleagues. It is a chance to connect with people in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
Book early or you may miss out!
If you’re looking for a place in Sydney to celebrate the Melbourne Cup, you’re in luck. The city is full of fantastic venues that offer delicious food, exciting entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to dress up and show off your style.
Sydney’s Melbourne Cup lunch scene is vibrant and exciting, with plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a fancy sit-down meal or a casual pub lunch, you’re sure to find something that suits your style.
Just remember, if you are planning to go with a bunch of friends, these events book out quickly.
Melbourne Cup Lunch near Circular Quay and The Rocks
For a picturesque Melbourne Cup lunch experience, check out some of Sydney’s stunning waterfront venues.
Here are a few top picks:
Moët & Chandon Terrace Bar Pumphouse Sydney
Get ready for the race that stops the nation at the stunning Moët & Chandon Terrace Bar, located at Pumphouse Sydney! You’ll be treated to a warm welcome with complimentary Moët & Chandon upon arrival, followed by three hours of Chandon, Garden Spritz, red and white wines, and refreshing Stone & Wood beer.
Indulge in a feast for the senses with our exquisite culinary offerings. Savour fresh oysters, enjoy a variety of shared platters, and relish roving trayed canapés throughout the afternoon. For those with a sweet tooth, the chocolate fountain and petit fours dessert station will be a delightful treat. With such a tantalizing menu, your Melbourne Cup experience will be nothing short of spectacular.
As you enjoy the delicious food and drinks, dance to the beats of our live DJ until 4pm, followed by captivating live entertainment until 7pm Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to celebrate the Melbourne Cup in style at the Moët & Chandon Terrace Bar, where elegance meets excitement!
When: 12:30-3:30pm, 5 November 2024
Where: Pumphouse Sydney, 17 Little Pier Street, Darling Harbour,
Cost: $149pp – get more information here
House Canteen
The fun starts at noon with roaming canapes and a glass of bubbly to kick things off. Starting at 12pm, they will broadcast the races live and loud on big screens so you don’t miss any of the action. Dress to impress and join in the fun of sweepstakes with a harbour back drop.
When: Noon – 4pm, 5 November 2024
Where: House Canteen, Sydney Opera House
Cost: $65pp
Aria
Aria offer an unforgettable Melbourne Cup experience, as you celebrate the race that stops the nation with an exquisite culinary and beverage journey.
You will be welcomed with Champagne on arrival, followed by a specially curated four-course menu featuring dishes like asparagus with young almond and yolk, scallop with guanciale, and a decadent Ranger Valley wagyu rump cap. For those seeking even more indulgence, the stunning tasting menu is also available, ensuring a race day to remember.
Along with the fabulous harbour views there will be screens throughout the restaurant, a fun sweepstake, and a chance to win ‘best dressed’ prizes.
When: 12pm-4pm, 5 November 2024
Where: East Circular Quay
Cost: $275pp
Melbourne Cup at the Glenmore Hotel
The Glenmore Hotel is hosting the ultimate Melbourne Cup experience on 5th November, filled with thrills, races, and mouthwatering bites. Enjoy a set menu featuring a delicious share entrée of harissa chicken skewers, salmon tartare, and grilled zucchini salad, followed by alternate drop mains like slow braised lamb shoulder or roasted barramundi.
With live music, lucky door prizes, best dressed awards, and TAB facilities, it’s set to be an unforgettable day of fun and racing. Dress to impress and make this Melbourne Cup one for the books!
Where: Cumberland Street, The Rocks
When: 12-4pm for lunch with an afterparty starting from 4pm
Cost: $90 per person.
The Morrison
Celebrate Melbourne Cup in style at Morrison with a culinary experience that promises to impress. Indulge in a menu starting with artisan bakery baguette and St David Dairy cultured butter, followed by natural oysters and house-smoked salmon.
Duck liver parfait with foie gras sets the tone for a luxurious meal, while mains include roast John Dory and Wagyu sirloin paired with smoked Paris mash. Complemented by sides like fries, vine tomatoes with stracciatella, and finished with a selection of Morrison petit fours, it’s a feast fit for race day.
Where: George Street
When: From 12pm
Cost: $149pp for lunch, $6 drinks at the after party from 5-7pm
Melbourne Cup Near Darling Harbour & Barangaroo
Cup Day at Untied
Untied’s Rooftop Cup Day Party offers the perfect setting to celebrate the race that stops the nation. On offer is a cocktail-style event features a 10-piece selection of roaming canapés and a 3-hour Premium Beverage Package, ensuring you are treated to a memorable race day.
Big screens will capture all the race excitement, while live roaming singers entertain throughout the afternoon. With prizes for the best dressed and an afterparty kicking off at 5pm, this rooftop event is sure to impress.
When: From 12pm, afterparty from 5pm
Where: Untied Rooftop
Cost: $159pp
Zephyr at the Hyatt Regency
Sip in style and revel in the glitz and glamour of race day at Zephyr. Don your race day best for a Melbourne Cup day like no other, with Champagne on arrival, three hours of premium beverages, mouth-watering food, fresh seafood and all the action live on three big screens.
Prizes for best dressed and a live DJ and host to keep the party going.
When: Noon-3pm
Where: Hyatt Regency
Cost: $199pp. (18+ only)
Bungalow 8
Celebrate Melbourne Cup 2024 at the newly refurbished Bungalow 8 and enjoy a race day filled with excitement and style. Doors open at 11:45am, and after the race, the party continues with live music and DJs keeping the energy high till late.
Choose from a variety of specialty packages, whether you prefer a 3-course share-style banquet or a premium canape experience. For a more exclusive celebration, book one of the Bungalow Decks or Balcony for a private experience with champagne on arrival and stunning views. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy Melbourne Cup in Sydney.
When: Tuesday, 5th November, from 11:45am
Where: Bungalow 8, 3 Lime Street Sydney
Cost: $159pp (Banquet or Canape package), $1800 per deck (12 pax), $2000 per balcony deck (12 pax)
Bottega Coco
Enjoy the festivities with a delicious three course Italian banquet for $110pp, complete with fresh pacific oysters on arrival.
For even more fun, option for a $90 standard or $150 premium drinks package that includes a selection of premium free flowing sparkling, wine, beer & soft drinks to keep the good times going.
Where: King Street Wharf
When: Noon till late
Cost: $110 for lunch with drinks packages from $90-150pp.
Cafe del Mar
Café del Mar will offer a stylish and lively celebration with live entertainment, including ARIA-nominated vocalist Reigan, a DJ, percussionist, and saxophonist.
Enjoy the racing action live on multiple screens, a flower wall for photo ops, and an afterparty from 5pm. Choose from three exceptional options: a decadent four-course lunch, a rooftop garden party, or a VIP party with exclusive access and premium beverages.
When: Tuesday, 5th November
Where: Café del Mar, Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour
Cost: $199pp (Lunch), $229pp (Rooftop Garden Party), $279pp (VIP Party)
Callao, Barangaroo
Callao invites you to a spectacular Melbourne Cup celebration filled with racing, fashion, and incredible food. Indulge in a 4-course Nikkei feast while enjoying live race screenings, internal sweeps, and a “best dressed” competition.
For those looking to enhance their experience, Callao offers a premium beverage package featuring wines, beers, and soft drinks, with the option to upgrade to a glass of Champagne on arrival. It’s a race day event that brings the best of culinary and racing excitement together.
Dress code, dress to impress!
When: 12pm-3pm
Where: 1/100 Barangaroo Avenue Barangaroo
Cost: $129pp, Drink package $80
Smoke
Celebrate Melbourne Cup in style at Smoke, the premium rooftop venue at Barangaroo House. Enjoy a luxurious race day experience with panoramic views and a sophisticated atmosphere. Your package includes a generous three-hour beverage selection featuring beer, wine, and spritz cocktails, accompanied by delectable roaming canapés.
Watch the thrilling race unfold on big screens while savoring the premium rooftop location. After the main event, continue the festivities at the House Bar afterparty, featuring DJs and a vibrant celebration atmosphere.
When: Tuesday, November 5, from 12pm
Where: Smoke, Level 2, Barangaroo House
Cost: $240 per person (includes 3-hour beverage package and canapés)
House Bar
Experience Melbourne Cup 2024 at House Bar, Barangaroo House, for a vibrant waterside celebration. Your package includes a refreshing spritz or Asahi on arrival, complemented by generous grazing stations and roaming canapés. Watch the race that stops the nation on multiple screens, immersing yourself in the buzzing atmosphere.
After the main event, stay for the lively afterparty featuring DJs and continued celebrations. With special drink deals all day, including $15 spritz cocktails and $12 Asahi, House Bar offers an exciting and accessible way to enjoy Cup Day festivities in a prime waterfront location.
When: Tuesday, November 5, from 12pm (Afterparty from 3:15pm)
Where: House Bar at Barangaroo House, 35 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Cost: $85 per person (includes welcome drink, grazing platters, and canapés)
Woodcut
Experience the race that stops the nation at Sydney’s most electrifying waterside venue, Woodcut. Chef | Owner Ross Lusted hosts a spectacular Melbourne Cup celebration featuring an indulgent four-course lunch menu. Dress to impress and enjoy a cocktail on arrival, live DJ entertainment, and a stunning floral entrance.
Watch the races live on big screens, participate in sweepstakes, and compete for exclusive best-dressed prizes. With breathtaking harbour views as your backdrop, this show-stopping event promises to be a true highlight of the racing season.
When: Tuesday, November 5, 12pm – 4.30pm
Where: Woodcut, Sydney Harbour
Cost: $230pp (4-course menu), optional 3-hour beverage packages: – $80-$110pp
Hickory Bar
Celebrate Melbourne Cup in style at Woodcut’s exquisite outdoor terrace, Hickory Bar. Perched above Sydney Harbour, this cocktail-style event offers a sophisticated racing day experience. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and indulge in a tailored canapé menu featuring Sydney Rock Oysters, curated by renowned Chef Ross Lusted.
Don your finest attire and soak in the festive atmosphere with a live DJ setting the mood. Watch the races unfold on big screens as you mingle in this beautifully appointed venue, combining gourmet delights with the excitement of the Cup.
When: Tuesday, November 5, 12.30pm – 3.30pm
Where: Hickory Bar, Woodcut’s outdoor terrace, Sydney Harbour
Cost: $120 per person (includes cocktail on arrival, oysters & canapés)
a’Mare
Indulge in an authentically Italian Melbourne Cup celebration at a’Mare. Head Chef Alessandro Pavoni presents an extravagant four-course lunch showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to family, friendship, and sensational cuisine. Dress to impress and savor a remarkable culinary experience while enjoying breathtaking harbour views.
The festivities include live music, sweepstakes, and exciting prizes for best dressed. Watch the race live on big screens as you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, complete with Italian flair. This elegant event promises a perfect blend of gourmet delights and Cup Day excitement.
When: Tuesday, November 5, 12pm – 4.30pm
Where: a’Mare, Sydney Harbour
Cost: $225 per person (includes four-course menu)
Melbourne Cup Lunch in the City Centre
Strangers Dining Room
Enjoy a 5 course degustation with a drinks package overlooking the Domain. Live entertainment, sweepstakes, door prizes and big screens to watch the excitement from the track.
When: 12.30-4.00pm
Where: NSW Parliament House
Cost: $190pp. (10+ $170pp.)
Chophouse
Chophouse is pulling out all the stops this Melbourne Cup with a classic feast fit for race day. Enjoy a three-course set menu for groups of four or more, including a drink on arrival. With shared starters and desserts, and a choice of exceptional mains like eye-fillet, scotch fillet, or pan-roasted snapper, there’s something to satisfy every guest.
For those dining solo or in smaller groups, the a la carte menu is also available. Dress to impress and raise a glass to the race that stops the nation in true Chophouse style.
Where: Bligh Street Sydney
Cost: $150pp.
Bar Totti’s CBD
Celebrate Melbourne Cup Italian-style at Bar Totti’s CBD, where the atmosphere is vibrant, and the food is exceptional. Gather your friends for a day of fun and indulgence with a shared menu featuring Totti’s beloved dishes.
Kick off the festivities with a glass of Veuve Clicquot NV or Heineken on arrival. For those wanting to elevate the experience, an optional bottomless package is available to make the day even more special.
When: From 12pm, Tuesday, 5th November
Where: Bar Totti’s, Sydney CBD
Cost: $200pp (shared menu), $70pp (optional bottomless package)
Ash St. Cellar
Celebrate Melbourne Cup in style at Ash St. Cellar, a tucked-away gem in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. Enjoy a delightful three-course menu paired with a glass of Veuve Clicquot NV or Heineken on arrival, all set within the charming surroundings of a cozy laneway. Dress to impress and raise a glass to the race day festivities.
For those looking to keep the celebration going, evening reservations from 5:30pm are available, and an optional bottomless package can be added for an extra indulgence.
Where: 330 George St, Sydney
Cost: $185pp
Establishment Main and Garden Bar
Experience the excitement of Melbourne Cup at Establishment Main and Garden Bar in Sydney’s CBD. Indulge in a delightful three-course shared lunch accompanied by a welcome glass of Chandon or Heineken. Set in a stunning, light-filled venue, you won’t miss a moment of the action with TAB facilities and screens available.
As the races wind down, join our lively Cup Day after-party and dance the night away. For those looking to elevate their experience, an optional bottomless package is available to keep the celebrations flowing.
When: Tuesday, November 5, 2024 from 12pm
Where: Establishment Main and Garden Bar, Sydney CBD
Cost: $145 per person (optional bottomless package $60 per person)
Melbourne Cup in Sydney Suburbs
North Bondi Fish
Experience the excitement of Melbourne Cup at North Bondi Fish, offering the perfect beachside setting for the race that stops the nation. Indulge in a sumptuous 4-course sharing menu, kicking off with a welcome margarita on arrival.
As the races conclude, transition seamlessly into NBF’s classic after-party, where the celebrations continue in true beachside style. With its prime location and festive atmosphere, NBF provides a unique blend of gourmet dining and Cup Day thrills, making it an ideal spot to enjoy this iconic Australian event.
When: Melbourne Cup Day (date to be confirmed)
Where: North Bondi Fish, 120 Ramsgate Ave, Sydney
Cost: $145 per person (includes 4-course sharing menu and welcome margarita)
Felons Manly
Felons, the newly transformed Wharf Bar, is bringing the excitement of race day to life with premium Melbourne Cup lunch specials. Enjoy big screen views of the action while indulging in a 3-hour beverage package and a spectacular spread of local seafood.
With a menu boasting fresh Sydney Rock oysters, Mooloolaba king prawns, and grilled snapper, paired with Veuve Clicquot champagne, it’s a celebration of both racing and fine dining. Perfect for groups or walk-ins, this seaside venue delivers a luxurious and lively race day experience.
Where: Felons Manly Wharf
When: 12-3pm for lunch, After party 3.30-7pm
Cost: $249 per person.
Chirosco by Ormeggio
Swap trackside for waterside and watch the race on large screens while feasting on a shared menu for $120 per person, There will also be prizes for best dressed!
Where: Mosman
When: 12-4pm
Cost: $120pp | Phone: (02) 9046 7333
Coogee Pavilion Ground Floor
Spend Cup Day overlooking Coogee Beach enjoying an elegant coastal menu with a side of sea breeze. Enjoy a three-course share-style lunch curated by executive chef, Jordan Toft, alongside a glass of Chandon or Heineken on arrival.
Where: 169 Dolphin Street, Coogee
Cost: $145pp, optional bottomless packages $55
Coogee Pavilion Rooftop
Enjoy a beverage package from 12–3pm and delicious roving canapes from Jimmy’s Chicken. Catch the race on the big screen, and hang around for what’s set to be an epic after-party.
Where: 169 Dolphin Street, Coogee
Cost: $125pp
Coogee Bay Hotel
Join us for a day of racing elegance by the beach at Coogee Bay Hotel. Hosted in their open-air garden and Marra Bar & Grill, Melbourne Cup is gearing up to be the biggest yet. This year, Coogee Bay Hotel is offering race day packages that are guaranteed to impress.
You’ll indulge in a 3-course share-style menu and free-flowing 3-hour premium beverage package as you watch the race live on their giant screens.
Where: 253 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee
Cost: $195pp
Ms.G’s
Melbourne Cup and Ms G’s go together like cheeseburgers and spring rolls (if you haven’t tried one of these, now’s your chance). A shared banquet menu can be enjoyed by everyone created by Dan Hong and a top-notch three hour beverage package from arrival to finish. The perfect pick for anyone looking for fun food in a vibrant atmosphere.
Where: 155 Victoria Street, Potts Point
Cost: $190pp
Totti’s Rozelle
Savour a delightful shared menu that showcases Totti’s signature dishes, all accompanied by a three-hour beverage package, set in a beautifully sunlit space.
Where:197 Evans St, Rozelle
Cost: $275pp.
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