Where to Head for Eats and Drinks Before and After a Session at the Australian Open
From pre-match parmas to celebratory champagne after a long day courtside, these local spots have you sorted during this year's Grand Slam tournament.
It's that balmy time of year when the days are long, the post-holiday haze is yet to lift... and the eyes of the world are on Melbourne as it hosts one of its biggest annual sporting events, the Australian Open. This year, most of the world's top tennis players will descend on Melbourne Park from Monday, January 16–Sunday, January 29, battling it out for Grand Slam glory.
Thousands of spectators are also set to head along to watch the on-court action unfold — and if you're one of them, chances are you'll be in the market for a bite to eat before a match or a couple of bevs after a big day courtside. This year's onsite food and drink offering is a truly bumper one, but we've also pulled together a round-up of top-notch bars and restaurants within strolling distance of Melbourne Park's front gates. Intersperse your tennis-watching adventures with a visit to one of these great spots and enjoy your own little grand slam moment.
Top image: Arbory Afloat by Arianna Leggiero.
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BarLucy Liu Kitchen & Bar
23 Oliver Lane, Melbourne
Spot on modern Asian CBD dining from the lady herself.
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RestaurantRobata
2 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
The San Telmo Group's playful take on modern Japanese barbecue heroes skewers cooked over charcoal and cleverly reworked classic cocktails.
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BarCricketers Arms Hotel
327 Punt Road, Richmond
One of Richmond's oldest and most iconic pubs, just across the road from all the sporting action.
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BarHemingway's Wine Room
150 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne
You'll find red banquettes, Euro-accented fare and a cocktail list filled with Ernest Hemingway favourites at this art deco bar.
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BarArbory Afloat 2022 - CLOSED
Flinders Walk, Melbourne
Melbourne's seasonal floating bar is back with a new holiday-worthy look and an offering inspired by the Balearic Islands.
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RestaurantGrill Americano
112 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Chris Lucas' dapper steakhouse celebrates Northern Italian flavours and old-school hospitality with a generous side of modern elegance.
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RestaurantUntitled Richmond
236 Swan Street, Cremorne
A former Young Chef of the Year guides the contemporary Euro food offering at this multi-level restaurant and bar from the Ugly Duckling team.
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RestaurantHazel
164 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
From the minds behind Liminal and Common Ground Project comes this after-work go-to for cocktails and clever contemporary bites.
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BarThe Duke Of Wellington
146 Flinders Street, Melbourne
It turns out Melbourne's oldest licensed pub has a few new tricks up its sleeve.
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BarArbory Bar & Eatery
Flinders Walk, Melbourne
With great views and even better food, this is one platform you won't mind getting delayed on.
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RestaurantGimlet at Cavendish House
33 Russell Street, Melbourne
Andrew McConnell's elegant cocktail bar and European bistro serves up caviar, champagne and truffles aplenty.
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CafeCumulus Inc.
45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
A sensory dream of outstanding food and beautiful design.
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BarThe Corner Hotel
57 Swan Street, Richmond
A Richmond live music institution with a banging rooftop.
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BarTaxi Kitchen
Level 1, Transport Hotel, Federation Square, Melbourne
Taxi Kitchen remains a favourite in Fed Square, with an Asian-influenced menu overlooking the Yarra.
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