Giddy Up! Here’s Our Pick Of The Brisbane’s Best Melbourne Cup Events

Celebrate Cup Day by the river at Howard Smith Wharves — Brisbane’s ultimate party playground on the riverfront. No matter your style, there’s a celebration waiting for you. Soak up the sunshine at Mr Percival’s with fresh seafood, canapés, and a 3.5-hour premium drinks package ($290pp). Over at Stanley, indulge in a lavish four-course Cantonese banquet ($295pp) before heading upstairs for a boogie and cocktails at Stan’s Lounge. For something a little more breezy, Ciao Papi will be serving share-style Italian long lunch and flowing drinks ($270pp). Beer lovers can head to Felons Barrel Hall and Felons Brewing Co. for hearty spreads, ice-cold beers, and an unbeatable energy ($190pp). Meanwhile, Yoko Dining brings Tokyo-style izakaya flair, complete with shared plates and champagne on arrival ($150-285pp), while Greca celebrates with an abundant Greek feast ($150-285pp). And once the big race is run? The real party begins. Mr Percival’s afterparty will carry the celebrations well into the night, with DJs playing until late. 

Saddle up for Brisbane’s finest Melbourne Cup at Bar Pacino. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Story Bridge, this riverside hotspot is the ultimate place to enjoy the big day in style. Indulge in premium food and beverage packages, sip through a dedicated Aperol Spritz bar, and soak up the race day atmosphere with a live DJ from 12 PM to 5 PM. Catch all the race day action on screen and have fun with lucky door prizes and best-dressed awards. Whether it’s a corporate day out or entertaining friends, Bar Pacino is the place to be this Melbourne Cup. 

Get in the race day spirit with Riverland’s three-hour all-inclusive Melbourne Cup package, set against the unbeatable scenery of the Brisbane River. With two massive screens, you won’t miss a single thrilling moment of the race while soaking up the lively riverside atmosphere. Tickets start from just $149 per person and include roaming canapés, indulgent food stations, and bottomless house beer, wine, and spirits. Dress to impress with fabulous prizes up for grabs for the best-dressed, plus plenty of chances to score goodies through raffles and giveaways during the day. For a day full of racing and riverside views, visit Riverland on Melbourne Cup Day. 

If you’re chasing a lively atmosphere this Melbourne Cup Day, book your place at Tama Supper Club. Set in an elegant yet energetic restaurant, guests will indulge in a four-course set menu paired with a three-and-a-half-hour deluxe beverage package, making it a race-day experience to remember. With the races streamed live on the big screen, you won’t miss a moment of the action. Keep the party going with the DJs on rotation and a live saxophone player. Wear your fanciest suit because best-dressed prizes are up for grabs. Secure your ticket now for an unforgettable Melbourne Cup celebration at Tama Supper Club. 

Two hours of flowing drinks, Latin-inspired dining, and the race live on screen, Melbourne Cup at Cálida Steak & Bar is set to impress. Celebrate the race that stops the nation in true style at South Bank’s premium steakhouse and oyster bar. Begin with Champagne Pol Roger on arrival, before indulging in a two-hour drink package featuring premium wines. For mains expect vibrant Latin-inspired dining with a chef-crafted canapes and fresh seafood. Perfect for groups, corporate celebrations, or a stylish afternoon with friends, Cálida is in the heart of South Bank with race day energy all around. Tickets are all-inclusive at $195 per person.