The Best Restaurants to Visit in Sydney During the Melbourne Cup 2025

The Belrose Hotel is a relaxed Northern Beaches pub, beloved for its vibrant atmosphere and elevated pub classics. With a focus on hearty meals, seasonal specials, and a curated drinks list, it’s ideal for groups celebrating Melbourne Cup 2025 away from the CBD crowds. The hotel’s spacious interior and outdoor seating make it one of Sydney’s top choices for a pub dining experience with friends, whether you’re catching the races on TV or toasting to a winning horse.

A historic pub in The Rocks, the Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel is Australia’s oldest continually licensed hotel. Its handcrafted ales and robust pub fare create a classic Sydney dining experience. During Melbourne Cup week, it’s perfect for a lively pub lunch or a casual race-day gathering. The combination of history, quality beer, and hearty food makes it a standout choice for those looking for Sydney pubs with character during Cup celebrations.

For vibrant Asian dining Sydney, THE DOLAR SHOP in Haymarket offers bold Chinese dishes and shareable plates, ideal for group celebrations. From spicy hotpots to modern Chinese feasts, the menu pairs beautifully with cocktails or wine for a fun, festive Melbourne Cup 2025 experience. Its central location makes it a natural stop for CBD dining options, particularly for those planning a post-race gathering in the city.

Bathers’ Bistro combines casual fine dining Sydney waterfront restaurants with stunning harbour views. Chef Marc Kinghorn’s menu celebrates local seafood and seasonal produce, perfect for a long lunch or brunch during Melbourne Cup 2025. The bistro’s relaxed yet sophisticated setting makes it ideal for families or groups seeking a memorable race-day meal near the harbour, with a focus on fresh flavours and welcoming service.

Surry Hills’ Pellegrino 2000 brings authentic Italian dining Sydney style to the heart of the city. Known for handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and regional Italian classics, it’s an ideal spot for a Melbourne Cup 2025 lunch or dinner with friends. Its stylish interior, attentive service, and lively atmosphere make it a top choice for date nights, group celebrations, and city dining hotspots during Cup week.

CATALINA in Rose Bay is a beachside restaurant with modern Australian cuisine, offering a refined yet relaxed setting for Melbourne Cup 2025 celebrations. The menu focuses on seafood and seasonal produce, complemented by harbour views and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for family-friendly dining near the water, Catalina is a top pick for those seeking Sydney restaurants with stunning scenery to mark the Cup in style.

Located in the CBD, Bar Conte City is a modern Italian restaurant combining bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and a buzzing city vibe. Its signature pastas and shareable dishes make it ideal for Melbourne Cup 2025 lunches or dinners, while the cocktail list keeps the celebrations lively. It’s a standout among Italian dining Sydney CBD options, perfect for those looking to combine sophisticated cuisine with city-centre convenience.

East Village Hotel brings local pub dining in Sydney to life with elevated pub classics and friendly service. During Melbourne Cup week, it’s ideal for group brunches, casual dinners, or drinks with friends. Its welcoming atmosphere and ample space make it one of the best pubs in Sydney for Cup celebrations, especially for those looking for a relaxed yet festive vibe.

Pony Dining in The Rocks is a steakhouse known for premium cuts, refined sides, and bold Australian flavours. Perfect for Melbourne Cup 2025 gatherings, it combines intimate dining spaces with a lively CBD energy. Its menu of wood-grilled steaks and shareable dishes, paired with an extensive wine list, makes it one of the best restaurants in Sydney for celebratory dining, whether for a long lunch or a post-race feast.