Australian Open 2026, the fortnight of world-class tennis, brings thousands of visitors to Melbourne Park — and with them, big appetites. Whether you’re heading to Rod Laver Arena for a day session or planning to catch night matches, knowing where to eat nearby will save time, keep energy up and give you a proper taste of the city. This guide shares tried-and-tested spots, handy tips and sensible options for different budgets and diets.
H2: Australian Open 2026 — Practical Melbourne Park food picks and where to find them
First, a few ground rules from experience. Arrive early for matches and for food. Lines at concession stands and nearby cafés get long before play starts and at changeovers. If you want something sit-down and relaxed, book ahead — many restaurants near tennis offer larger groups limited availability during the event. For a quick bite, local bakeries, food trucks and market stalls around the precinct are reliable.
What to expect around Melbourne Park food-wise:
– A mix of casual stadium food (grab-and-go pies, burgers, coffee) and higher-end dining in the nearby CBD and Southbank.
– Plenty of international options: Italian, Asian, tapas and modern Australian.
– Good cafés for breakfast, brunch and coffee; Melbourne takes its coffee seriously.
– Dietary options: vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices are common in most cafés and many restaurants.
H3: Quick eats close to the action — fast, filling and fuss-free
If you’re short on time between matches or want to avoid crowds, go for quick-service spots just outside the venue. There are food trucks and pop-up stalls typically set up during the tournament offering salads, wraps, loaded fries and grab-and-go snacks. Look for:
– Local bakeries and pie shops for a hot meat pie or vegetarian pastie.
– Coffee carts for a top-up caffeine hit — bring a re-sealable bottle for hydration.
– Supermarket delis nearby (in Richmond or the CBD) for pre-made sandwiches, snacks and fruit if you’re on a tight schedule or budget.
H3: Restaurants near tennis — sit-down options for a comfortable meal
For a proper meal before or after play, head to Southbank, Richmond or the CBD. These neighbourhoods have a good spread of restaurants near tennis and are just a short tram ride or a 20–30 minute walk from Melbourne Park.
Recommended types of places:
– Italian in Lygon Street and Flinders Lane: pasta and risottos are filling and easy to share.
– Spanish tapas bars in the CBD for relaxed small plates — perfect for groups.
– Modern Australian eateries in Southbank offering seasonal produce and local wine lists.
Booking tip: If your match ends late, call ahead to let the restaurant know. Many places keep a couple of tables free for sports crowds if they know to expect you.
H3: Melbourne CBD dining — best bets when you want variety
Melbourne CBD dining is a short tram ride from Melbourne Park and offers the widest range of cuisine. From Chinatown’s dumpling houses to laneway cafés and fine dining, the CBD caters to every mood and budget. If you’re looking for a pre-match energy boost, try:
– A hearty brunch spot for eggs and sourdough or granola and fruit.
– A noodle or rice bowl for a quick, warm meal that won’t sit heavy.
– A bakery for pastries and strong coffee if you’re catching an early match.
Practical note: CBD restaurants can get busy during the tournament, especially on weekend afternoons and after evening sessions. Reserve online when you can.
H3: Southbank and riverfront — scenic dining with easy access
Southbank along the Yarra River is the most convenient for people attending Melbourne Park. You’ll find riverside bars, seafood restaurants and family-friendly venues with views of the water. These are ideal for a leisurely lunch or celebratory dinner after a big win.
What to expect at Southbank:
– Larger venues suited to groups.
– Good public transport links and pedestrian routes.
– Child-friendly menus and space for strollers if you’re attending with family.
H3: Melbourne food guide — dietary needs and smart ordering
Melbourne’s food scene is used to international visitors and most places will accommodate:
– Vegetarians and vegans: Many cafés and restaurants have dedicated plant-based dishes.
– Gluten-free: Ask staff — most kitchens can adapt pasta, bread and desserts.
– Allergies: Let the staff know when ordering — chefs are generally cautious and clear about common allergens.
Smart ordering tips:
– Choose protein-rich meals (chicken, fish, tofu, legumes) to fuel long days.
– Hydrate: bring a refill (Incomplete: max_output_tokens)
Leave a Reply