The phrase “everyone’s a winner” is a bit of cop-out if you’re watching the rugby, but it’s the Melbourne Cup — let’s face it, you’re not here to show off your lung power. Eat (daintily), drink (one glass at a time), dress up and be merry at one of these venues getting in on the action. It’s just like being there, only you won’t ruin your heels.
Mumm Champagne Spring Carnival Bar
Sydney loves a good ephemeral drinking spot, and our newest one is saving its best for last. Mumm Champagne Spring Carnival Bar will be reaching into the most delicious depths of its cellar on the final day of its being for a Melbourne Cup canapé spread designed by Damien Pignolet, hosted by Laura Csortan and matched with NV Mumm Champagne. $120pp.
Gazebo, Winery by Gazebo & Manly Wine
Celebrate with those who understand that the fashions of the day are as important as the race itself. Gazebo’s Surry Hills, Manly and Elizabeth Bay locations will be rewarding your sartorial swagger with Fashions in the Garden and Fashions on the Turf, accompanied by screens, sweeps and a fabulous feasts. Manly will be kicking it extra old school with separate menus for ‘Him’ & ‘Her’. $130pp.
Forgo the field for a salubrious speakeasy tucked away on Abercrombie Lane. Dress in your most roaring ‘20s attire if you like to win prizes, and revel in canapés, Domain Chandon Rosé from 12 noon until the big race. $90pp.
Sparkling Rose Bay and Laurent Perrier goes hand in hand at The Sailor’s Club Melbourne Cup lunch. There will be a bookie to place your bets, sweepstakes, fashions on the field, lucky door prizes, including a magnum of Laurent Perrier and, of course a big screen TV to watch the eipc race. 3 courses + champagne or cocktail $129 pp / Lounge Cocktail canapes & glass of Champagne $79 pp.
The Melbourne Cup soiree for ‘suits’, feast at Postales Restaurante or Prime Restaurant whilst watching all the action from the Races on big screens. Enjoy Fashion Parades by DVF and Basler or for a bit of winning pampering Endota Spa will be at hand to offer complimentary treatments. 2 courses starting at $50pp.
If you thought picking a horse was hard, try planning an itinerary from the myriad of indulgent lunch and bar packages at The Star. Graze on gourmet canapés at Cherry or enter punters paradise at 24/7 Sports Bar in front of a screen as big as the track, and get the most out of your outfit by kicking on at Marquee. If you’re after something even more extravagant Balla, BLACK by ezard and Sokyo are all putting on four, five and seven course meals respectively. Free – $150pp.
Tacos might not be the most traditional cup fare, but who’s complaining? No one who’s just participated in two hours of complimentary booze, that’s for sure. Book a spot in the leafy beergarden and round out your four-course lunch with snacks, mains and desserts. A TV is viewable from every table for those who can still see straight. $80pp.
Something for just the ladies? The Langham Sydney might be your best bet. Soak up a little old world charm as the race screens live, you enjoy a signature Tiffin Tea service and Laurent-Perrier Champagne. Best dressed guest receives a piece of the Kailis Silver Collection. $99pp.
