Celebrate Melbourne Cup At One Of These Sydney Venues

Is your supervisor entrusting you with the responsibility of organising Melbourne Cup festivities this year? We’re here to simplify things with our comprehensive guide to some of the top deals at Sydney’s restaurants, bars, and pubs.

The race that stops a nation is galloping towards us with the event taking place on Tuesday, 7th November 2023. We love an excuse to clock off work early and be social with our colleagues, and thankful these Sydney venues are coming through with the goods. From roving canapes to set menus, bottomless beverage packages, and live entertainment, here are different ways to celebrate this year’s Melbourne Cup across Sydney.

Martinez Restaurant & Rooftop Terrace Bar

Celebrate the Melbourne Cup in style by dining at Martinez Restaurant, one of the newest venues in Sydney’s CBD. Martinez Restaurant & Rooftop Terrace Bar is the latest addition from the House Made Hospitality team, renowned for their creation of some of Sydney’s most iconic dining establishments. To make this occasion truly special, the chefs have prepared an 11-dish shared-style menu inspired by the flavours of southern France. Dishes include Rock Oysters, Scallop Cru served with a delightful ravigote vinaigrette, Spanner Crab complemented by marie rose sauce, fine herbs, and warm crumpets, Magra Lamb paired with a pistachio and green olive aillade, and a decadent Crème Caramel to finish. Martinez Restaurant offers an extensive selection of wines, including more than 35 options available by the glass, as well as a wide range of magnums to choose from.

Where: Quay Quarter Tower, Ground Lobby, 50 Bridge St, Sydney NSW 2000
Cost: $149 per person for shared set menu
Book here

Lana

Lana is located inside the historic Hinchcliff House building in Sydney CBD. The beautiful and rather glam fit-out makes it the perfect spot for a stylish Melbourne Cup celebration. Guests will indulge in a specially curated 3-course menu with 11 share-style dishes including East 33 Rock Oysters, Stracciatella with peas, nori, desert lime and Thai basil, Kingfish Crudo, Smoked Roasted Chicken with whisky and black vinegar, Barramundi with ginger & shallot verde, and a Chocolate Bonet with whisky caramel for dessert. Maker’s Mark have also partnered with Lana for the occasion offering paired cocktails with the meal. Sip your way through the Maker’s Mark Gold Rush, the Bourbon Spritz, the Mint Julep, and an Espresso Martini.

Where: Hinchcliff House, Level 1/5-7 Young St, Sydney NSW 2000
Cost: $99 per person for a shared set menu and paired cocktails
Book here

Grana

Grana is another incredible dining destination located within the heritage Hinchcliff House building. They’re known for putting up delectable dishes with an Italian influence and on Cup Day, guests will indulge in a menu designed to showcase only their best. Over three courses you will taste Sydney Rock Oyster with blood orange & prosecco, Kingfish Tartare with cucumber and finger lime, Orecchiette with cloudy bay clams, nduja, and a shellfish brodetto, Glazed Lamb Spezzatino, and a Toasted Coconut Semifreddo for dessert. Grana provides an ideal setting for celebration against a backdrop of elegance and charm. The venue features stunning marble accents, lofty ceilings, and the authentic sandstone walls of the original wool store.

Where: Hinchcliff House, Level 1/5-7 Young St, Sydney NSW 2000
Price: $119 per person for shared set menu
Book here

The Clock Hotel

Sydney’s beloved institution, The Clock, stands proudly in Surry Hills, and it’s the place to be for a Melbourne Cup celebration with a touch of class. This year, gather your colleagues for an elegant yet affordable affair in the Balcony Bar. Upon arrival, enjoy a complimentary drink, and indulge in French-inspired canapés that circulate throughout the afternoon, along with tempting grazing stations. Watch the race that stops a nation live on the screen, and then DJs will spin tunes well past sundown, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Where: 47 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Cost: $79 per person for drink on arrival, roving canapes and grazing stations in Balcony Bar
Book here

The Golden Sheaf

Nestled in Double Bay, The Golden Sheaf offers two enticing options for your Melbourne Cup celebration. The outdoor rooftop sets the stage for a stylish cocktail-style affair, featuring antipasti grazing stations and roving canapés, including oysters, goat’s curd tarts, and chicken liver parfait profiteroles. Alternatively, you can opt for a more relaxed seated lunch in the garden bar and beer garden. Upon arrival, enjoy a glass of Veuve Clicquot alongside oysters and rosemary focaccia, followed by dishes like yellowfin tuna crudo, King prawns with sauce gribiche, slow-roasted lamb shoulder with salsa verde, and a tempting chocolate brownie dessert with vanilla bean ice cream and salted almond brittle.

Whichever option you choose, expect a fantastic atmosphere with live race screenings, thrilling sweeps, and prizes for the best-dressed guests. Plus, revel in the soothing sounds of live music throughout the day, ensuring your Melbourne Cup celebration at The Golden Sheaf is truly memorable.

Where: 429 New South Head Road, Double Bay
Cost: $85 per person for grazing stations, canape service and a glass of Chandon on arrival upstairs on the Sheaf’s outdoor rooftop
$120 per person for seated lunch, glass of Veuve Clicquot on arrival and a three-course shared lunch in Garden Bar
Book here

ZAFFI

Immerse yourself in the stylish atmosphere of the Melbourne Cup at Zaffi, a venue adorned with a delightful pink hue that sets the perfect stage for capturing memorable photos. Indulge in a share-style menu meticulously crafted by Head Chef Graeme Hunt. The menu draws inspiration from Lebanese cuisine, focusing on dishes that have the power to bring people together in the spirit of camaraderie and culinary delight. Your Melbourne Cup experience at Zaffi begins with a champagne reception. As the festivities unfold, you can look forward to live entertainment, a large screen to catch all the racing action, exciting prizes for the best-dressed attendees, and a lively MC to set the tone for the event. To elevate your experience, consider opting for a beverage package that includes Lebanese beer, sparkling bubbles, and a selection of wines.

Where: 10-14 Hunter Street, Sydney CBD
Cost: $95 per person for champagne on arrival and set sharing menu
$55 per person beverage package additional
Book here

QT Sydney

Get ready for a Melbourne Cup celebration at QT that’s unlike any other in Sydney. Immerse yourself in the world of fashion and enjoy a complimentary 30-minute Dyson dry styling session with the renowned Dyson Brand Ambassador, Peter Thomson. This exclusive treat is reserved just for QT Sydney guests on the day. When it comes to fashion, it’s all about showcasing your unique style at ‘Fashions on the QT Field.’ Then, indulge in a sumptuous set menu curated by Chef Sean Connolly. Savour freshly shucked Oysters, Ocean Trout Crudo with mascarpone, preserved lemon, and capers, the signature Spanner Crab Linguini, the delectable Raspberry Zuppa Inglese and Lemon Cannoli.

Where: 49 Market Street Sydney
Cost: $130 per person includes glass of champagne, 3-course set menu, fashions on the QT field, complimentary Dyson dry styling experience & live DJ
Book here

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is hosting an exclusive Garden Party with a French twist at the Garden Court Terrace & Restaurant. Enjoy a 3.5-hour all-you-can-eat and drink experience, including the finest Pommery Champagne, Tanqueray Gin, and a variety of premium wines and beers. Delight in gourmet roaming canapés, a fresh oyster bar, artisanal charcuterie, cheeses, and a barbecue showcase. Elevate your experience with a DJ to set the mood and catch the Melbourne Cup action on the cutting-edge LED screen. Dress to impress for a chance to win exclusive prizes, including the Best Hat/Fascinator award in partnership with Ford Millinery. It’s a French-style Melbourne Cup celebration you won’t want to miss!

Where: 61, 101 Phillip St, Sydney (Garden Court Terrace & Restaurant)
Cost: $120 per person for 3.5 hours of all-you-can-eat food and drinks
Book here

The Heritage Precinct

Prepare for an unforgettable Melbourne Cup luncheon at the charming Heritage Precinct in Parramatta. It promises a day brimming with excitement, high fashion, and a dining experience that’s truly elevated. The event will be enriched by live entertainment to infuse the atmosphere with exuberance, while local judges will be on the lookout to recognise the best-dressed attendees. Have the opportunity to win coveted prizes, including a $500 Myers voucher and a splendid hamper courtesy of Angove Family Winemakers. Excitement mounts with sweepstakes, and a large screen will be set up for everyone to cheer on their favourites during the race. Indulge in an array of roving canapés, thoughtfully crafted by Oribu’s newly appointed Head Chef, Harry Cho.

Where: Level 1 / 215 – 217 Church Street, Parramatta
Cost: $99 per person for roving canapes
Book here

Watson’s EQ

Reserve a table at Watson’s EQ and soak up the sun in their inviting Beer Garden. It’s the perfect spot for a delightful afternoon with great food and a fantastic atmosphere. The courtyard has a 4-metre mega screen and multiple big screens throughout the venue so you can watch the race live. There’s also live acoustic music and DJs to keep you entertained. You’ll be welcomed with a glass of Champagne, followed by a shared-style meal with a variety of dishes, including Sydney Rock Oysters, Thyme & Rosemary Lamb Shoulder, Grilled Lemon & Sumac Chicken, and more. When it comes to drinks, they have a thoughtfully crafted beverage menu with everything from cocktails to buckets of beer. Plus, there are special deals on Champagne and wine, including some luxurious magnum options.

Where: The Entertainment Quarter, 1 Bent Street, Moore Park
Price: $79 per person for glass of G.H.Mumm Grand Cordon NV on arrival and a 2-course shared menu
Book here 

Pumphouse Sydney

Experience the Melbourne Cup in style at The Garden Terrace, located within the lush green setting of Pumphouse Sydney. This elegant space is your ultimate destination to immerse yourself in the excitement of the race while enjoying a delectable spread of food and drinks in a vibrant atmosphere. Guests can win exciting lucky door prizes, including an overnight stay for two at the luxurious Novotel Sydney Darling Square and $200 worth of Pumphouse dining vouchers. Your Melbourne Cup session on The Terrace lasts for a delightful 3.5 hours, during which you’ll indulge in a premium canapé package including Cured Hiramasa Kingfish Tostadas, Moroccan Lamb Pie, Sweet Potato Croquettes, and Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sliders. The premium beverage package will include free-flowing white, red, and sparkling wines, exclusive beers, and more.

Where: 17 Little Pier Street, Darling Harbour
Price: $110 per person for 3.5 hour canape and beverage package
Book here

Aria

If you have your boss’s credit card, you might want to consider experiencing the Melbourne Cup in style at Aria. There’s nothing quite like enjoying the Melbourne Cup with breathtaking views of the Harbour Bridge. You’ll be welcomed with champagne and delectable spring snacks upon arrival, setting the tone for an extraordinary day. Then, you can indulge in a sumptuous four-course menu crafted by Executive Chef Tom Gorringe. The menu features exquisite dishes such as Abrolhos Island Scallops, Southern Rock Lobster Linguine, Westholme Wagyu 9+ Rump Cap, Chris Bolton Coral Trout, and more.

Where: 1 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW
Cost: $350 per person includes glass of champagne and 4-course menu
Book here

Nomad

This Surry Hills institution is known for hosting an unforgettable Melbourne Cup event. They provide live race coverage with screens throughout the venue and the chance to win best-dressed prizes. You can savour a sit-down banquet menu featuring contemporary cuisine with Middle Eastern influences, prepared in a woodfire oven. The menu boasts culinary delights like Kingfish Rillette, Nomad’s renowned charcuterie selection, Green Pea Hummus, Burrata with fennel jam, Spatchcock seasoned with harissa, toum, and guindilla, and a delightful Olive Oil Ice Cream Sandwich. You’ll also have the option to include a premium beverage package.

Where: 16 Foster Street, Surry Hills
Cost: $190 per person for glass of champagne and banquet set menu
Optional $75 or $110 2-hour beverage package
Book here

Armorica

Surry Hills’ newest French dining destination is the perfect spot for a sophisticated Melbourne Cup celebration. They’ve got you covered with live race screenings, a live DJ spinning tunes into the evening, and the chance to win prizes for the best-dressed attendees. You’ll be welcomed with a glass of champagne, followed by a shared set menu with standout dishes like Sydney Rock Oysters, Spanner Crab Cakes, Coral Trout Crudo, Beef Tartare with horseradish cream, John Dory served with sauce grenobloise, and a mouthwatering Tarte Tatin to finish.

Where: 490 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Cost: $195 per person for glass of champagne on arrival followed by set menu
Book here

Menzies

At Menzies, located on the ground level of Shell House, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere to celebrate the Melbourne Cup. Indulge in a sumptuous 4-course menu crafted by Culinary Director Joel Bickford and Head Chef Laurent Rippoles, and your meal starts with a delightful spritz upon arrival. The menu includes delectable offerings like Scallop Toast, Chicken Liver Bigne with crema de Montenegro, Smoked Tomato Bread, and Steamed Coral Trout. What makes this experience even more enticing is that all guests receive complimentary entry to the after-party at Sky Bar starting from 4 pm.

Where: 37 Margaret Street
Cost: $145 per person for spritz on arrival and 4-course menu
Book here

Looking for a venue on the North Shore?

The Verandah Beecroft

The Verandah Beecroft, a beloved establishment among North Sydney locals since 1913, is hosting a delightful Melbourne Cup event. Guests can look forward to a 3-course luncheon with sweeps, prizes, and live race broadcasts on screens. The day will kick off with a luxurious touch, featuring caviar and champagne upon arrival to set the tone. Following that, indulge in a sumptuous 3-course lunch, featuring menu highlights such as Wild Mushroom Croquettes, Beetroot & Gin Cured Salmon, Roasted Queen Fish, and a Strawberry & Champagne Triffle.

Where: 128 Copeland Rd, Beecroft
Price: $85 per person for champagne and caviar on arrival and 3-course menu
Book here

Molly’s Pavillion

Nestled amidst the lush greenery, Molly’s Pavilion offers a serene setting to enjoy Cup Day within the Cheltenham Recreation Club, a renowned sports and leisure facility. The lunch will be complete with a delectable 3-course menu, sweeps, exciting prizes, and live race coverage displayed on the impressive Big Screen Saddle. To start the festivities in style, guests will be greeted with champagne upon arrival. Dishes on the day will include a King Prawn Cocktail, Roast Chicken Breast with ratatouille, and a decadent Warm Caramel Apple Tart for dessert.

Where: 60/74 The Crescent, Cheltenham
Price: $65 per person for champagne on arrival and 3-course menu
Book here

The Alcott

At The Alcott, a chic and vibrant entertainment destination beloved by the Lane Cove community, get ready for a Melbourne Cup experience like no other! Indulge in a sumptuous 4-course luncheon featuring delectable dishes such as Grilled Garlic Flatbread, Burrata & Blistered Cherry Tomato Caprese, Slow Roasted Angus Rump Cap, Coffee & Kahlua Tiramisu, and more. To set the mood for a fantastic day, guests will be welcomed with a glass of champagne upon arrival. As always, The Alcott is bringing the Melbourne Cup celebration in style, offering a day filled with music, great vibes, live race action on the big screen, sweeps hosted by the fabulous Drag Queen Conchita Grande, and a chance to win exciting prizes.

Where: 1 Birdwood Ave, Lane Cove
Price: $95 per person for champagne on arrival and 4-course set menu
Book here

The Greens

The Greens, a charming North Sydney establishment known for its dual role as a fantastic pub and restaurant, is hosting a very indulgent Melbourne Cup. From 12pm to 4pm, guests will enjoy a specially curated 4-course menu with a 4-hour beverage package to match. Start your day with Mediterranean Grazing Platters and cold seafood selections such as Sydney Rock Oysters, Tiger Prawns, and Sesame-Seared Tuna Loin. Moving throughout the day, you’ll try more substantial dishes such as Smoked Pepper Beef Brisket, Baked Atlantic Salmon, and Charred Pumpkin with chimichurri. It’s a feast you won’t want to miss!

Where: 50 Ridge St, North Sydney
Cost: $220 per person for 4-course menu and 4-hour beverage package
Book here

The Glasshouse Artarmon

Experience the Melbourne Cup in style at The Glasshouse Artarmon, a lush garden sanctuary that offers a unique setting for your celebration. Your feast will begin with a share-style grazing platter, followed by delectable pizza platters and refreshing salads meant to be enjoyed with friends and colleagues. To kickstart the festivities, guests will be greeted with a complimentary glass of Piper Heidsieck upon arrival. For those looking to elevate their experience, we suggest opting for the 4-hour beverage package. The big screens will keep you connected to all the live action and there will be sweeps, prizes for the best-dressed attendees, and the chance to win lucky door prizes.

Where: 1 Frederick St, Artarmon
Cost: $49 per person for glass of champagne on arrival and share-style menu
$55 per person for 4-hour beverage package
Book here

Norths Cammeray

Norths is hosting an amazing Melbourne Cup event, featuring a 3-course lunch and a 2-hour drinks package, all for just $99. With MC Simon Gillespie, best-dressed prizes, sweepstakes, and in-venue TAB facilities, it’s an event you can’t miss! Savour an Antipasti Grazing Platter, Marinated Grilled Prawn Salad, Lemon Pepper Barramundi, Passionfruit Pannacotta, and more delicious dishes on our menu.

Where: 12 Abbott St, Cammeray
Cost: $99 per person for 3-course menu and 2-hour beverage package
Book here

Looking for a Nup The Cup?

INDU

If you’re not in favour of supporting the Melbourne Cup due to its controversial nature, INDU in the CBD offers an alternative approach. They’re taking a stand against the cup by providing a cruelty-free dining experience. You can relish a completely vegan menu, priced at just $69, skillfully crafted by the talented head chef, Erry Saliman. The menu features enticing dishes like Spring Crudités, Pumpkin & Garden Pea Tartlet, Charred Cauliflower with dhal hummus, curry oil, savory crumb, and Sweet Corn & Asparagus Chaat Salad. This is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy a delightful day of food while maintaining your stance against the Melbourne Cup. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from each set menu sold will be contributed to Horse Rescue Australia, supporting a noble cause.

Where: George Street Entry Via, 350 Angel Pl, Sydney
Cost: $69 per person for set menu
$30 per person for beverage package
Book here