Several events have stopped the nation in recent times, but none will be more greatly received than Melbourne Cup 2021. To mark its arrival, Pacific Concepts restaurants, bars and entertainment destinations are preparing for a flutter, fun and fizz.
Fratelli Fresh Darling Harbour will host a Melbourne Cup Lawn Party, on Tuesday, 2nd November from 12pm to 3pm. The spacious al fresco dining area will be decked out with turf to create a lawn party feel. Inside a series of pop-up bars will serve spritzes, frosé, wines, bubbles and beers. There will be DJs, acoustic artists, prizes for best dressed guests and eight large-screen TVs from which to watch the race. A three-hour, four-course, share-style lunch and drinks package includes cocktails, house wine and tap beer ($125 per person). Make a booking here.
Starter
Deluxe grazing platter with an assortment of cured meats and cheeses
Entree
Prawn cocktail, iceberg lettuce and Marie Rose sauce
Heirloom tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and basil shooter
Main
Slow-cooked lamb shoulder, mint salsa verde, seasonal vegetables
Roast chicken with stuffing lemon and rosemary, baby potatoes, butter, parsley
Ocean trout al cartoccio, fennel, olives, capers and tomato
Summer salad leaves, stone fruits and oregano
Dessert (alternate drop)
Lemon & hazelnut pie, raspberry sorbet
Chocolate mousse, salted caramel, vanilla ice cream
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Tex-Mex wild child El Camino Cantina in The Rocks is hosting a Melbourne Cup Party from 1pm to 3pm ($89 per person). Included is a two-hour Tex-Mex feast and drinks package that spans legendary margaritas served frozen and on the rocks, as well as tap beer and house wine. There will be live music and DJs, and large screen TVs to watch the race. Make a booking here.
Entree
Trio of dips and tortilla chips
Spicy buffalo and BBQ chicken wings
Main
Assortedseasonal tacos
Nacho bowls
Naked burrito bowls
Dessert
Churros with chocolate and caramel dipping sauce
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Guests are invited to ‘Come get Racy’ at The Argyle, which will be decked out as a plush floral oasis for an indulgent Garden Party. Take advantage of two-hour, picnic-style feasts with accompanying drink packages from 12pm to 2pm, with prices starting from $99 per person. Score tickets here.
The race will be televised from The Argyle courtyard, which is home to arguably the biggest screen in the CBD.
Pacific Concepts Director of Venue Performance and Experience John Sullivan said this year, more than ever, Sydneysiders are looking for an opportunity to come together, celebrate and have a good time.
“We’re providing the opportunity to capture the excitement of spring racing season, watch Melbourne Cup from large-screen TVs, and soak up the atmosphere is safe dining environments, with value-packed food and drink packages,” Mr Sullivan said. “We believe Sydney’s reopening is the start of a buzzing party vibe for Sydney, that will continue until New Year’s Eve, with Melbourne Cup slap, bang in the middle of it.”