Spring has arrived, bringing with it the Melbourne Cup, one of Australia's most anticipated events of the season. More than just a day at the races, it’s a celebration of food, fashion and festivities. For those wanting to savour the thrill of the Melbourne Cup in style, we've selected top venues across Australia that offer memorable dining experiences and exciting race day events.
Miss Moneypenny's - Noosa, Qld
Miss Moneypenny's on Hastings Street in Noosa Heads embodies the chic, vibrant spirit of the Sunshine Coast. Known for its Mediterranean flair and semi-alfresco setting, this stylish venue draws both locals and visitors with its polished timber interiors and stone accents, creating an inviting atmosphere for those looking to enjoy coffee, cocktails, or tapas. Nestled amid the energy of Noosa’s main strip, Miss Moneypenny’s serves as the perfect location for a sophisticated yet laid-back dining experience that captures the coastal charm of this iconic region.
The dish Shown is part of the restaurant’s regular menu and is used for illustrative purposes only. The Melbourne Cup event menu may vary.
The Melbourne Cup Luncheon at Miss Moneypenny’s elevates the occasion with a welcome drink and a luxurious four-course menu, featuring the restaurant's finest dishes. Guests can anticipate a full day of celebrations, including a fashion parade by JOJO boutique, sweeps and prizes for best dressed. The festivities don’t end at lunch; the venue hosts a lively La Fiesta Sound System Afterparty, allowing guests to dance, socialise and revel in a true Noosa-style Cup celebration.
In the heart of West Perth, Zafferano captures the essence of Mediterranean elegance with WA’s best seasonal ingredients. Housed in the beautifully restored Villa D'Este, Zafferano offers an array of dining options - from fireside seating to alfresco dining and private rooms. The venue’s sophisticated ambience and commitment to local produce make it a popular choice for intimate dinners and festive gatherings alike, all within the charm of its heritage architecture. With a dedication to refined dishes, Zafferano combines the artistry of Mediterranean cooking with the quality of West Australian ingredients.
The dish Shown is part of the restaurant’s regular menu and is used for illustrative purposes only. The Melbourne Cup event menu may vary.
For Melbourne Cup, Zafferano provides a luxurious three-course menu featuring standout selections like dry-aged Black Angus sirloin with Cabernet jus, served alongside a welcome glass of French Champagne. As guests enjoy the meal, they can catch the race on numerous screens around the restaurant, participate in sweepstakes and show off their finest attire for the best-dressed contest. With its immersive Cup experience, Zafferano merges exceptional cuisine with spirited celebrations.
Set amidst the scenic Perth Hills in Kalamunda, The Vault WA takes diners on a culinary journey through Italy. This spacious venue combines a cosy indoor dining room with a beautiful outdoor terrace, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or a pint while taking in the bustling Haynes Street. Originally a family dream, The Vault continues to thrive under new ownership by Head Chef Angelo Bruno, who preserves the restaurant’s warm hospitality and traditional Italian charm. The Treetop Bar, open from Friday to Sunday, adds another layer of relaxation, offering live music and drinks in a picturesque setting.
The dish Shown is part of the restaurant’s regular menu and is used for illustrative purposes only. The Melbourne Cup event menu may vary.
For Melbourne Cup festivities, The Vault offers a three-course set menu complemented by Prosecco and canapés on arrival. Settle in for a sumptuous Italian feast, while prizes for best-dressed and sweepstakes add a touch of friendly competition to the day’s celebrations. With live entertainment and a welcoming atmosphere, The Vault is the ideal spot for an electric yet intimate Cup experience.
Sandbar Restaurant and Bar - Huskisson, NSW
Sandbar Restaurant & Bar in Huskisson, located along the beautiful South Coast of NSW, offers a relaxed dining experience just steps from Jervis Bay’s iconic beaches. This beach-chic venue combines indoor and outdoor dining areas adorned with distressed tables, blue-and-white accents and lush greenery, creating the perfect coastal escape. With an emphasis on local ingredients and Modern Australian flavours, Sandbar’s concise yet creative menu makes it a standout in Huskisson’s dining scene, inviting guests to linger over every meal.
The dish shown is part of the restaurant’s regular menu and is used for illustrative purposes only. The Melbourne Cup event menu may vary.
On Melbourne Cup Day, Sandbar steps up the festivities with a bottomless food, wine and beer package lasting throughout the race. The curated menu, with Sandbar’s signature bold flavours, embodies the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, locally inspired dishes. Guests can also enjoy sweepstakes and best-dressed competitions, to amp up the excitement of this relaxed beachside Melbourne Cup experience.
In the heart of Orange, Lucetta Dining brings a touch of rustic Italian charm to NSW's wine country. Known for its intimate setting, this restaurant blends concrete walls, dark wood accents and a softly glowing ambience, ideal for savouring inspired dishes crafted from local ingredients. Lucetta’s Italian menu is deeply rooted in authenticity, with each plate thoughtfully paired with wines from the region to highlight its flavours. It’s a beloved destination for those who enjoy a cosy, culinary escape that still feels refreshingly refined.
The dish Shown is part of the restaurant’s regular menu and is used for illustrative purposes only. The Melbourne Cup event menu may vary.
For the Melbourne Cup, Lucetta offers a three-course lunch with bubbles on arrival, inviting guests to indulge in uniquely luxurious creations. Fashion-forward guests can compete for best-dressed prizes, while a sweepstakes get you in on the Cup action. With its rustic elegance and spirited ambience, Lucetta Dining creates a memorable Cup experience set in the heart of Orange’s picturesque wine region.
These hand-picked venues deliver a unique Melbourne Cup experience, each blending exceptional cuisine, stylish settings and race-day excitement. Celebrate the season by exploring these standout locations, where memorable food and lively festivities await.
For more Melbourne Cup events near you, check out the guide here.
