Top 20 eats around the MCG

Richmond

1. The London Tavern

Soak up the charming local vibe at The London Tavern in the heart of Melbourne’s sporting precinct. Secure a seat by the big screens, and watch with a pint in hand as sporting greats battle it out on the field.

2. The Cricketer's Arms

Serving beers since the 1860s, The Cricketers Arms is one of Richmond’s oldest pubs. Play a round of pool, grab a seat by the TV, or try your luck at a classic arcade game. The best part is that you’re right across the road from the ‘G, so you can grab a bite to eat then catch a live game.

3. The Corner Hotel

Revel in live music at The Corner Hotel, where international buzz bands, local stalwarts and acclaimed heavyweights take the stage most nights of the week. Enjoy a classic parma or grab a drink on the rooftop before a match at the MCG, or put on your party shoes to rock'n'roll long after the final siren.

4. Hochi Mama Richmond

Keep things lively at Hochi Mama with an Asian-fusion menu full of zing, perfect for a sporting debrief with friends. Unsure what to order? Opt for the Feed Me option for a generous flow of dishes packed with flavour.

5. Feast of Merit

For an alternative to traditional pub fare, step down to Swan Street's Feast of Merit for delicious Middle Eastern and southern-Mediterranean-inspired dishes – served with a very Melbourne vibe. Look for the striking external mural by Dan Wenn.

6. Mountain Goat Beer

Fancy a craft beer developed with unrestrained flavour, technique, and creativity? From organic steam ale to more complex flavours – and even gin – Mountain Goat Beer has a taste for every palate.

7. Public House

Take a seat in the front bar overlooking Church Street, or head to the rooftop for Melbourne skyline views. The menu at Public House will take you on a trip around the world, with plates inspired by global street food. Pair with classic cocktails, craft beer and wine.

8. Frédéric

For punters who fancy a European bar and bistro experience after the footy, Frédéric delights with a menu of perfect little snacks to wash down with a glass of vino, as well as larger meals, including steak and fish dishes that are a cut above the usual.

9. The Posty

Grab a cold one and savour the carby goodness of a wood-fired pizza in an old post office conversion at The Posty. Expect great food, a long drinks list and friendly neighbourhood service at this Cremorne institution.

10. The Blacksmith Bar

Snack on fine cheese and charcuterie and pay homage to a by-gone era of uncomplicated cocktails and quality spirits, either before or after the big game at The Blacksmith Bar.

11. Brogan's Way Distillery

Get an insight into the distilling process and taste the aromatic gin direct from the source at Brogan's Way Distillery. Sample classic gin cocktails, try a tasting paddle or share a grazing plate with friends.

12. Fargo and Co.

Laugh all the way to the bank at this two-level state bank turned eclectic bar. Fortify yourself on game day with a pre-match bottomless brunch or debrief afterwards over cocktails, bites or something more substantial at Fargo and Co.

13. Hanoi Hannah New Quarter

Experience the taste of Vietnam with a modern twist at Hanoi Hannah New Quarter. Chef Anthony Choi takes flavour, texture and style into new and exciting territory at this Swan Street must-dine.

Inner-city Melbourne

14. Garden State Hotel

Make like a bee for multi-level Garden State for easy post-match socialising. Say cheers over pub classics made with local Victorian produce, or catch a dose of European summer at in-house bar Tippy-Tay.

15. Victoria by Farmer's Daughters

Jump from footy field to farm-to-table dining. The star at this Fed Square restaurant is produce sourced from some of Victoria's top farmers and diverse producers. Victoria by Farmer's Daughters serves up a culinary experience to savour.

16. Big Esso by Mabu Mabu

Brighten post-match blues or keep the wins coming at Torres Strait Islander chef Nornie Bero's all-day bar and kitchen. Native ingredients, a delectable seasonal menu designed for sharing, and a brilliant backdrop of artwork by Indigenous artists are all part of the Big Esso by Mabu Mabu dining experience.

17. Tonka

The laneway location is just the start of an excellent adventure at Indian-inspired Tonka. Prop up the bar for a drink and share plate if you're feeling easy-breezy, or sit for the full chef's-hatted experience.

18. The Duke of Wellington

When the whistle blows, head along Flinders Street to the Duke, Melbourne's oldest pub. Raise a pot of beer, dig into a parma, find a new flavour tipple at the cocktail bar, or tuck into a bang-up meal in the dining room.

19. Cumulus Inc.

Cumulus Inc. has remained a fashionable hub over the years, with its airy, industrial fit-out, top-notch international wine menu and dishes that highlight local produce. Discuss your team's last-minute goal over oysters and a glass of blanc de blanc.

20. Riverland Bar

Set your sights along the Yarra to always-bustling Riverland. Raise a toast in the outdoor urban beer garden year-round, with heaters pumping out warmth in winter. Pizza, burgers, steak and parmas: perfect pre- or post-match nourishment for all kinds of punters.