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Overview
Fascinators, flutterers and fizz-drinkers, The Argyle is continuing its commitment to the Melbourne Cup this year, with the return of its epic race-day party. The venue’s 19th-century, heritage-listed sandstone courtyard will transform into a mini-track, complete with TAB, payout facilities and, most importantly, the biggest TV screen in The Rocks.
You’re invited to dig out your sassiest cocktail dresses, slickest suits and fanciest fascinators for the Fashions on the Field segment of proceedings. Don’t hold back — The Argyle will be handing out prizes to the best-dressed punters in attendance.
Lucky door prizes and drinks specials are on the agenda, too. And, once the race is called, you can either celebrate your wins or wallow in your losses at the afterparty, in the company of a hand-picked selection of Sydney-based DJs.
A $99 'grand stand' entry will buy you two hours’ worth of drinks, along with canapes, including Baja-style prawn cocktails, sushi rolls, chilli chicken empanadas, pork belly soft buns and cheese and jalapeno pretzels. It's worth nabbing these tickets soon; the 'member pavilion' option, which adds on another glorious hour of drinking time for $50, is already sold out.
If a sit-down meal is more your style, there’s a few options not far away. Just across the courtyard, The Cut Bar & Grill will deliver a four-course menu based on premium produce, including a seafood platter of Crystal Bay prawns, local oysters, rock lobster and crab, as well as wagyu rib or sirloin and fish and vegetarian options. It comes with glass of Veuve Cliquot, for $149. Meanwhile, Sake Restaurant & Bar will whip up a ten-course tasting menu, also with a glass of Veuve Clicquot, for $149.
Once the feasting’s done, head to Bar Ananas for cocktails, champagne, oysters and an appropriate dose of French glamour. The party starts at 4.30pm and DJs will be spinning until late. Ananas isn’t selling tickets, but numbers are limited, so do book a spot over here.