When the first Tuesday in November rolls around, there’s only one thing on our mind – where’s the best spot to watch the big race? And what better way to do that than by enjoying a leisurely long lunch? Sure, Melbournites might be able to fight their way through traffic, and long queues to attend the actual horse track, but when it comes to Cup Day celebrations, Sydneysiders definitely know how to do it best. From picturesque harbourside locations to stunning city views, our picks for the best places to enjoy Melbourne Cup Day in Sydney are sure to have you feeling like a winner.
Here are the top 6 experiences in Sydney this Melbourne Cup Day.
Located: 50 Carrington Street, Sydney
Reviews rating: 4.7/5 (Check out what OpenTable diners are saying about Maydanoz )
Turkish restaurant Maydanoz is certainly Made in Aus when it comes to knowing how to put on a proper Melbourne Cup shindig! If you happen to be in the Sydney CBD this race day, make your way to this Institution for a long lunch you won’t soon forget. With a sumptuous grazing station featuring a range of tasty Turkish breads and dips, cold cut meats, olives, cheese as well as fresh seafood and wood-roasted vegetables you’ll be in for a real treat. Oh, and did we mention the 3-hour drinks package?
Price: $195 per person.
Located: 75-79 Hall St, Bondi, NSW 2026
Reviews rating: 4.7/5 (Check out what OpenTable diners are saying about China Diner – Bondi)
Situated in popular Bondi, China Diner will be celebrating Melbourne Cup Day with a vibrant contemporary Asian menu encompassing an indulgent two-hour food and beverage package. Loaded with delicious bites including Prawn & Crab Dumplings; Red Vinegar Crispy Calamari, Togarashi Pepper, Garlic, Lime; and Cantonese Duck San Choi Bao, China Diner is firmed to be a hit with your group. With a best dressed competition, sweeps and screens throughout, we recommend booking sooner that later!
Price: $99 per person.
Located: 17 Lime Street, King Street Wharf, Sydney
Reviews rating: 4.6/5 (Check out what OpenTable diners are saying about Steersons Steakhouse)
For the steak lovers out there, it’s time to get glammed up and head to one of the best venues to enjoy the Melbourne Cup in Sydney! Located in the heart of King Street Wharf, Steersons will be serving up a delectable four-course set menu this Cup Day. With stunning views of the Harbour as your backdrop, tuck into a starter of king prawns before indulging in a Westholme Wagyu for mains. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a glass of Mumm on arrival and get the chance to win some great prizes throughout the day.
Price: $149 per person.
Located: Level 2, 488 George Street, Sydney
Reviews rating: 4.5/5 (Check out what OpenTable diners are saying about Glass Brasserie)
Join Chef Luke Mangan for what’s sure to be an unforgettable day at his iconic chef-hatted restaurant Glass Brasserie, in the Sydney CBD. With sweeping views of Hyde Park and St. Mary’s Cathedral, this is the perfect place to enjoy a tasty long lunch and watch all the Melbourne Cup race action unfold. Tuck into a three-course set menu featuring signature dishes. Not only will you be cheered by receiving a glass of champagne upon arrival, but there are also giveaways throughout the day! With Richard Wilkins as your MC, this is one event you definitely don’t want to miss.
Price: $189 per person.
Located: 87 Glenayr Avenue 3, Bondi Beach
Reviews rating: 4.5/5 (Check out what OpenTable diners are saying about Blackwood Bondi)
Get ready to vibe out this Melbourne Cup Day at one of Bondi’s best beachside venues! Blackwood will be putting on a sumptuous Mediterranean shared menu featuring all your Blackwood favourites, plus a three-hour drink package. Wearing your finest entitles you to enter the best-dressed male and female competitions in the hopes of winning some amazing prizes. With a live DJ playing all your fave tunes and screens showing the race action, escape the city this Cup day and head on down to the beach!
Price: $199 per person.
Located: 23 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
Reviews rating: 4.5/5 (Check out what OpenTable diners are saying about BóRN by Tapavino)
This hip Sydney eatery is the perfect place to enjoy Melbourne Cup in style! With a Spanish-infused set menu that will leave you saying ‘asombroso’, start your long lunch with a glass of bubbly before indulging in a shared three-course dining extravaganza featuring rock oysters, kingfish, charred chicken and braised beef rib. Plus, you won’t miss a minute of the race day action with big screens showing all the live coverage.
Price: $135 per person.
Melbourne might be the home of the Cup, but these 6 Sydney hotspots are definitely a food lover’s destination come race day! Whether you’re looking for a waterfront setting, a lavish long lunch, or somewhere to let your hair down and enjoy the party atmosphere, there’s sure to be a venue on this list that takes your fancy.
