The Best Melbourne Cup Day Events
Melbourne Cup Day lunches have been part of the race’s history almost as long as the event itself. What began in the 1860s as trackside picnics with champagne and elaborate hampers soon evolved into a much-loved social tradition, with offices, pubs and clubs across Melbourne embracing the occasion. As the Melbourne Cup grew into the race that stops the nation, so too did the culture of gathering for a long lunch with friends, colleagues and family.
Today, Melbourne Cup lunches are a staple of the celebration, combining great food, drinks and entertainment with the excitement of Australia’s most iconic race day.
Ludlow Bar, Southbank
For a stylish Melbourne Cup Day celebration, Ludlow offers the perfect mix of great food, race-day excitement, and waterfront views. Guests can enjoy a delicious three-course lunch with a drink on arrival before settling in to watch all the racing action live.
Adding to the festive atmosphere are sweeps, Best Dressed prizes, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate throughout the afternoon. Whether you’re backing a winner or simply enjoying the social side of Cup Day, Ludlow provides an elegant setting to soak up the excitement. Once the races wrap up, the celebrations continue into the evening, making it a great choice for those looking to keep the party going into the evening.
Hophaus, Southbank
Perched on Southbank with sweeping Yarra River views, Hophaus is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food. For Melbourne Cup Day, the venue is hosting an afternoon of style, racing, and celebration.
Guests can catch all the racing action live on the big screens while enjoying sweepstakes, riverside views, and a vibrant Cup Day crowd. Whether you’re backing a winner or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, Hophaus is a great option for a relaxed and fun Melbourne Cup celebration.
Where to eat, drink & party during Spring Racing Carnival
Cookie Melbourne, Melbourne City
Cookie is one of Melbourne’s most iconic venues. Located on the first floor of Curtin House on Swanston Street, Cookie has been a CBD institution for more than two decades, bringing together a bustling Thai eating house, legendary beer hall and hidden cocktail bar under one unforgettable roof. It has earned a reputation as a venue locals return to time and time again while remaining a must-visit destination for interstate and international visitors.
Find out more.
The Toff, Melbourne City
Located on the second floor of the historic Curtin House building, just one floor above sister venue Cookie, The Toff’s design celebrates the natural beauty of its unique surrounds.
The main bar features a train carriage, made up of booths which can be reserved for drinks. Happy hour is 6pm until 8pm Monday to Saturday. Check the Toff website for details of upcoming gigs on the band room side and DJs on the carriage side.
Find out more.
P.J.O'Brien's Sydney
Bringing a touch of Irish hospitality to Melbourne Cup Day, P.J.O’Brien’s Sydney is the perfect place to gather with friends, colleagues, or clients for the race that stops the nation. Located in the heart of the city, this lively venue combines great food, drinks, and a fun race-day atmosphere.
Guests can choose from two or three course sit-down lunch packages or opt for a stand-up canapé experience. With sweepstakes, Best Dressed competitions, and plenty of fantastic prizes up for grabs, P.J.O’Brien’s promises an entertaining afternoon of great food, drinks, racing, fashion and celebration.
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