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. LadyBoy Dining and Bar

For seasonal Thai-inspired fare in funky surroundings, head to LadyBoy Dining and Bar on Bridge Road. This vibrant casual eatery is known for shaking up creative cocktails and serving up delicious, affordable dishes.

5. Jeow

Head to Jeow for Loatian-inspired cuisine. Pick from delicious dishes such as steamed tapioca pearl dumplings, wood-grilled fish, spiced sausages and Nam Khao (crispy rice salad). Their Sunday lunch is the perfect way to satisfy appetites before an arvo game.

6.The Grand

Tuck into tasty pub classics and crisp wood-fired pizzas at The Grand Hotel Richmond. Lovingly restored from a run-down pub, this stylish venue is now sporting an ornate dining room, a cosy lounge bar and a spacious courtyard for outdoor dining in the warmer months. 

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. 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.

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.

Inner-city Melbourne

13. Fonda

Visit Fonda's city location on Flinders Lane for vibrant Mexican-inspired fare and delicious cocktails. Dishes are made with local ingredients and are perfect for sharing, making Fonda a top pick for casual group dining before or after an event at the 'G.

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. Freyja

Head to Freyja on Collins Street for contemporary Nordic-inspired fare in bright, airy surroundings. Grab a stool at the bar for a drink and share plate if you're feeling easy-breezy, or sit for the full 'taste of Freyja' multi-course dining experience. With curated menus from a Michelin star chef, you know you're in for a treat at this much-loved Melbourne restaurant.

18. Fancy Hank's BBQ

Nestled in the heart of Melbourne on bustling Bourke Street, Fancy Hank's is a haven for meat lovers. This beloved barbecue joint has been serving up tasty slow-cooked meats for more than ten years. Feast on sharing platters piled high with smoked free-range meats, including brisket, beef ribs and pulled pork.

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.