As the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne revs up, there’s an array of culinary delights in the surrounding area that attendees can look forward to if they’re attending the Formula One event from 21-24 March 2024 to complement the excitement of the event. From morning coffee to post-race celebrations, the vicinity of the Grand Prix track boasts a diverse selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes catering to every palate.
Whether craving a quick bite, leisurely brunch, or fine dining experience, there’s something to suit every taste. Accessible by foot or a short tram ride, these top-gear venues ensure that the festivities continue long after the checkered flag waves, promising a memorable gastronomic journey for race enthusiasts and food aficionados alike.
1. Middle Park Hotel, Middle Park
The Middle Park Hotel, located across from Albert Park, hosts the annual Grand Prix Street Party (March 21-24), offering Formula 1 enthusiasts four days of thrilling action, delicious food, and live entertainment. Enjoy air displays with a cold drink in hand and catch F1 track action on big screens near the track. Indulge in their restaurant’s seasonal dishes highlighting Victorian produce for a memorable dining experience amidst the race festivities.
2. Albert Park Hotel, Albert Park
A 12 minute walk from the track, the Albert Park Hotel is a beloved local institution, offering a versatile pub experience. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the old-school front bar or relax in the scenic alfresco area. Upstairs, the bustling cocktail bar serves Asian-inspired drinks. Delight in Cantonese and Aussie-Chinese dishes at the on-site restaurant, Happy Valley, for a fusion dining experience.
3. Lamaros Hotel, South Melbourne
Located just a 5-minute walk from Albert Park, Lamaros is a gastropub tucked away in the backstreets. Dating back to the 1850s, it’s a cherished local favorite with a modern Australian menu. Highlights include top-notch steaks from the woodfired grill, the famous veal schnitzel, and dishes like grilled King Prawn spaghettini, red duck curry, and miso eggplant with salt and pepper silken tofu. Known for its friendly staff and classic offerings, Lamaros is a must-visit destination for those seeking delicious, hearty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
4. Cusina, Middle Park
With a massive range of traditional pizza, pasta and delicious Italian cuisine, Cusina is simple, tasty comfort food at its finest. Located round the corner from the track, this family spot is a great place to cool the engines after a day spent trackside.
5. Village Wine Bar, Albert Park
Albert Park’s Village Wine Bar is a 15 minute walk rom Gate 3. it exudes a classic European charm with its historic Victorian facade outside and stylish modern interior inside. They have a fantastic wine list and an Italian menu if you’re hungry.
6. The Esplanade Hotel, St Kilda
A 15 minute walk from Gates 10-11 you’ll find one of Melbourne’s most iconic pubs: the Esplanade Hotel, affectionately known as The Espy. Head to the main bar and grab a seat near its famous front windows or streetside beer garden for unbeatable views of Port Phillip Bay. Or you can try out one of the two unique restaurants inside the venue – Louey’s Bar and Kitchen or Mya Tiger. You can also ascend the staircase to their secret attic bar, The Ghost of Alfred Felton, for bespoke cocktails and charming, old-world service. For the first time ever the Espy is holding a Grand Prix Street Party from 22-24 March 2024.
7. The Prince, St Kilda
Located a 15 minute walk from the track, The Prince in St Kilda features a range of options if you’re looking to drink, eat or both. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Prince Public Bar. Recently awarded a chef’s hat in the 2024 Good Food Guide, The Prince Dining Room offers fine dining amidst elegant surrounds. There’s also Little Prince Wine – a bespoke wine bar – that you can retreat to for wine, cheese and good company.
8. Stokehouse, St Kilda
Stokehouse in St Kilda boasts one of the finest beachside locations, catering to upscale dining and casual beach hangs. The upper level offers premium dining with stunning sea views, while the downstairs Pasta & Bar provides a relaxed beachy vibe, serving crowd-pleasers like fresh barramundi, fish and chips, and house-made pasta.
9. The Vineyard, St Kilda
For those seeking an authentic St Kilda experience rich in history, excellent cuisine, live music, and a prime location, this venue is a must-visit. Boasting some of the finest chefs in town, The Vineyard as become renowned for its original Vineyard cocktails, making it the go-to spot for exceptional meals.
10. Lord Cardigan Restaurant, Albert Park
Lord Cardigan, nestled in a quiet crescent near Albert Park village, is a local gem not to be missed. With a cozy atmosphere and European-inspired menu featuring dishes like Kingfish carpaccio, crab and corn tortelloni, sizzling saganaki, duck breast, and prime Victorian steak, it offers a delightful dining experience. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, it caters to all tastes and occasions.
