The best Sydney venues to celebrate the race that stops the nation

Melbourne Cup day is coming, and if you’re not making it down to Flemington, chances are you’re trying to find the best place in Sydney to get suited and booted or dressed up in your finest. You’ll rally your friends or colleagues, and watch the three-minute race that acts as a glorious excuse to stop the nation.

The day might be all about the horses, but for many, it’s about the fashion, the sweepstakes, and starting the silly season with an absolute banger of a party.

We’ve scoped out the Sydney spots that are tuning in for the ‘Race That Stops the Nation’. From low-key pub vibes, to more up-market establishments, we’ve done all the groundwork for you. All you need to do, is hit ‘book’ before it’s too late (and you’re left with office sandwiches and lukewarm prosecco from the communal fridge - no thanks).

RAFI North Sydney

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If you want to watch the race with an epic atmosphere, RAFI is your move. The buzz is electric and will make for a fun afternoon with its lush, vibrant setting.

• The Package: $170 per person.
• What You Get: That price bags you entry and a glass of Champagne on arrival. Get ready to pop on your finest outfit for a memorable afternoon.

The Butler Potts Point

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Want the Sydney skyline as the backdrop to your Cup Day? Head to The Butler in Potts Point. This is where the city views meet a fest for the senses. Chef Amber Doig has created an exclusive menu highlighting fresh, spring produce. There’ll be screens around the venue as well as best dressed prizes for the most fashionable guests.

• The Package: $175 per person.
• What You Get: A serious feast that includes burrata and rib eye, as well as a glass of premium Taittinger Champagne when you walk in. Sun, city, and Tattinger, say no more.

SoCal Sydney (Neutral Bay)

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If you’re chasing those California vibes (minus the 14-hour flight), SoCal is your spot. Get your crew under the palms for a seriously relaxed, yet loud and lively, racing experience - with a marg in hand! Head chef Chris Webber has created a shared banquet, and with multiple TV’s for the race and sweepstakes, you’re guaranteed a good time.

• The Package: $99 per person.
• What You Get: A full-blown SoCal feast with a margarita on arrival. This is how you start a party.

The Botanist Kirribilli

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Nestled in leafy Kirribilli, The Botanist is the perfect spot to celebrate if you want a more low key vibe for your afternoon. The famous Jacarandas will be in full bloom, creating a stunning backdrop for your (guaranteed) selfie moment.

• The Package $125 per person.
• What You Get: A shared banquet plus sparkling wine upon arrival. Dress to impress because there’ll be a celebration of the best fashion, as well as sweepstakes.

Taphouse Darlinghurst

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This is the one for the foodies who still want a mad day out. Taphouse is offering a surprisingly delightful twist on your average Cup Day - across all levels of the iconic Sydney pub. They’ll have the race playing across large TV screens as well as sweeps.

• The Package $69 per person (or upgrade to add lobster for $98 per person).
• What You Get: Sparkling wine on entry and an Asian-inspired menu. It’s the perfect venue for a larger group booking.