Whether you’re in metro or country Victoria, it’s likely that you’ll want to head out to a restaurant, pub or bar after a day of high-energy entertainment at the races.
After all, you’re all frocked up so you’ve got to make the most of it – right?
So here’s our guide to getting out and about after a day at the races during the Spring Racing Carnival.
Caulfield
After a day at Caulfield racecourse you’ve got options in different directions. First, you can jump on a city-bound train, get off five stops later at South Yarra and bang – you’re in the heart of South Yarra.
A short stroll away (or take the number 8 tram if your shoes are killing you) is the culinary diversity of Chapel Street. Morris Jones won’t disappoint, neither will Mr Miyagi and Caffe e Cucina is a fabulous stayer of an institution on Chapel Street.
Down the Windsor end of Chapel Street there are plenty of options, but Saigon Sally is well worth a booking or you’ll find a unique Eastern European experience at Borsch, Vodka and Tears.
Alternately, jump on the route three tram, heading towards the city. Alight in Balaclava or East St Kilda on Carlisle Street, the heart of Melbourne’s beloved ‘bagel belt’ or continue on to Acland Street and St Kilda Beach. Here are just a few places you could try: Radio Mexico, Lava Lounge and Mopho Canteen, but there are plenty more.
Moonee Valley
After a quieter day at Moonee Valley, head down Mt Alexander Road to Moonee Ponds. There’s Meltemi Greek Tavern, Chew Chew, New York Minute, or – if you just can’t get enough sport – head for The Sporting Globe. You could also head to Essendon and try Woodstock Pizzicheria, or venture down Puckle Street and see if something takes your fancy. Alternately take the 505 bus or grab a cab towards Brunswick and hit Sydney Road. The Brunswick Mess Hall is definitely worth a try, but there’s truly too many options to name here.
Flemington
From Flemington, grab the 57 tram city bound and alight in North Melbourne or take the train into the city. One of the great things about the train is that you can pop-up gopher-like from the city loop stations into a myriad of eatery options.
Flinders Street
Dive straight into the heart of Melbourne’s laneways by taking the Degraves Street exit. From there you can take your pick – Manchester Press and many more options await. Alternately take the exit towards Southbank, cross the footbridge and try these: Tutto Bene, Sake Restaurant and Curve Bar.
Parliament
From Parliament station you’ve got the City Wine Store, The European, Punch Lane, The Waiters Restaurant (a great value for money option), the Imperial Hotel for a top-notch parmigiana as well as easy access to China Town.
Melbourne Central
Here you’re close to Father’s Office, Cookie, the Emporium Dining hall – yes it’s a shopping centre, but one that’s well worth a visit – especially if everyone in your group wants something different cuisine wise. And if you’re up for a little sophistication, head for the Moat downstairs on Little Lonsdale Street.
Something else?
For something different, stay in Flemington or a take short trip into Kensington to find places like La Tortilleria, Laksa King or I Love Dumplings.
A couple of country options
Think outside the grid – literally. Country Victoria offers up plenty of fine food if you know where to look for a trip outside the city. There are more options than you think. Not sure? Well read on.
Kyneton: A short stroll from Kyneton race track is the town’s renowned culinary strip on Piper Street. The range of options are plentiful, from Middle-Eastern to Italian and Indian. We won’t spoil the fun by listing them all, just wander and discover.
Mornington: Delectable D.O.C. serves up a piece of Italy on Mornington’s Main Street, There’s also the heartiness of Grand Hotel Bistro, but don’t forget towns like Red Hill and Rye if you fancy venturing further afield.
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