The crowds are buzzing, the city’s turned up to eleven, and you’ve got a whole day of Grand Prix excitement ahead, but first, food. Whether you’re chasing a strong pre-event coffee to get you off the starting line, a long lunch with friends, a quick bite between sessions, or a well-earned dinner once the chequered flag falls, Melbourne delivers the goods. The atmosphere all weekend is electric, and luckily, so is the dining scene.
We’ve rounded up five standout spots that are big on flavour, good vibes and zero fuss —places that can handle the rush and serve bites and booze worthy of a podium finish.
1. Basilico
If Grand Prix hunger hits, Basilico in Albert Park is your go-to Italian fix just moments from the action. This relaxed neighbourhood favourite is known for its wood-fired pizzas with perfectly blistered crusts and generous toppings, plus hearty pastas that feel like proper comfort food after a big day out.
Whether you’re sharing a pizza with friends, sipping a glass of wine streetside, or finishing with a classic tiramisu, Basilico keeps things easy, welcoming and full of flavour, exactly what you want during a high-energy weekend.
Location: 180 Bridport Street, Albert Park
Hours:Tuesday to Saturday 4pm – late; Sunday 12pm – late
2. Squire's Loft
If your Grand Prix weekend calls for something a bit hearty, Squires Loft Albert Park is your steakhouse pit stop with serious flavour and zero pretension. Famous for its juicy, perfectly cooked cuts, from melt-in-your-mouth porterhouse to hearty rib-eyes, this place takes its beef as seriously as you take race day.
Add in crispy sides, shareable steakhouse classics and a cold drink to match, and you’ve got yourself the kind of meal that feels like a celebration in every bite.
Location: 1 Queens Rd, Melbourne
Hours: Monday to Friday 12pm – late; Saturday 5pm – late
3. Bar Bianco
If you’re after a spot with effortless Italian vibes, Bar Bianco is the place to be. Fresh, shareable plates, buzzing energy, and drinks that slide down as easily as the conversation set the tone.
From wood-fired pizzas and hearty pastas to perfectly poured espresso and spritzes, every bite is packed with flavour. Grab a table with friends before the race or kick back after the chequered flag, Bar Bianco keeps it casual, tasty, and full of weekend energy.
Location: 508 Malvern Road, Prahran
Hours: Tuesday to Wednesday 5pm – late; Thursday to Saturday 12pm – 3.30pm & 5pm – late
4. The Flying Duck Hotel
If you want a place that’s equal parts laidback local favourite and bigflavour hangout, The Flying Duck Hotel has you sorted. With classic pub fare done right, great beers on tap and a vibe that feels like your coolest friend’s backyard party, this place is all about good food and good times.
Think juicy burgers, chargrilled favourites and hearty mains that hit the spot after a big day of Grand Prix excitement, plus plenty of space to kick back, laugh and swap highlights from the day.
Location: 67 Bendigo St, Prahran
Hours: Daily 12pm – late
5. The Temperance Hotel
If you’re chasing a spot with plenty of character, a killer beer list and hearty food that hits all the right notes, The Temperance Hotel is a classic with a cool twist. Think laidback vibes, outdoor beer garden energy and a menu packed with pub favourites given a tasty modern spin, perfect for fuelling up between race sessions or sinking into a long dinner with mates once the Grand Prix action winds down.
Add in good tunes, friendly faces and a buzzing atmosphere that somehow manages to be both relaxed and lively, and you’ve got yourself a goto for chilled vibes and seriously satisfying eats.
Location: 426 Chapel Street, South Yarra
Hours: Daily 12pm – late
