What’s on Your Melbourne Cup Lunch Menu? Delicious Ideas for Every Office
It’s that time of year again—Melbourne Cup. The race that stops the nation is almost here, and the buzz is building in offices across Australia. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or just in it for the fun, one thing’s for sure: Melbourne Cup day is the perfect excuse to dress up, let loose, and—most importantly— feast on some fabulous Melbourne Cup food.
But let’s be real, as much as we all love the thrill of the race, it’s the lunch spread that really gets everyone talking. Whether you’re placing bets or placing orders, a well-planned office lunch can take the day from meh to memorable. And that’s where we come in.
So here’s the real question, are you an office full of corporate high-flyers who prefer something sleek and gourmet? Or maybe you’ve got a bunch of laid-back creatives who like their food bold and fun? Whatever the case, matching your Melbourne Cup lunch menu to your office’s personality is the key to winning big (with food, not just the sweepstakes).
Our chef’s top menu recommendations for a Melbourne Cup office lunch
Gourmet Canapés
For the professional office that likes to keep things polished, gourmet canapés are a great choice. Think caramelised fennel tart with parmesan custard or buttery brioche soldiers with soft quail egg & chorizo jam. These bites are elegant and easy to eat—perfect for an office where people are socialising and checking out the race at the same time.
Why it Works: Canapés are light and simple, ideal for an office that wants food that looks good and is easy to enjoy. No need for plates or cutlery, just grab and mingle.
Shared Platters
If your office thrives on teamwork, shared grazing platters are the way to go. A spread of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and fresh fruits allows everyone to help themselves. It’s a relaxed, interactive style that gets people talking while they eat.
Grazing tables are perfect for corporate events because they encourage casual conversation as people serve themselves. Ideal for a laid-back Melbourne Cup lunch where socialising is key.
Substantial Finger Foods
For the busy office where people are multitasking, Mini Beef Burgers and Chicken Skewers are a great option. These hearty bites are easy to eat on the go and keep everyone satisfied without the need for a full sit-down meal.
Why it Works: Melbourne Cup lunches can last a while, so having something more filling keeps everyone going. These finger foods are quick, convenient, and tasty—perfect for keeping the energy up.
Sweet Treats
For dessert, petite sweets like banoffee cheesecake slice or lemon curd tart are always a hit. They’re easy to eat and add a little something extra to end the lunch on a high note.
Why it Works: These bite-sized desserts are fun, easy to grab, and great for a quick treat while everyone wraps up the day.
Beverage Pairings
To round things out, offer a mix of sparkling wines and mocktails. A little bubbly adds to the celebration, while non-alcoholic options make sure everyone has something to enjoy.
Tip: Having both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options keeps things inclusive and ensures there’s something for everyone to toast the day.
With these menu ideas, you can easily match the vibe of your office to the perfect spread, ensuring your Melbourne Cup lunch is a true winner, no matter who takes home the trophy.
Why Art Kitchen Should Be Your Go-To Caterer for Melbourne Cup
When it comes to planning the perfect Melbourne Cup office lunch, Art Kitchen has you covered from start to finish. Whether your team prefers gourmet canapés or more substantial bites, we offer premium ingredients and flexible menu options to suit any crowd. Got dietary needs? No problem! We’re pros at catering to different requirements, and we can even handle last-minute changes without missing a beat.
Ready to make your Melbourne Cup lunch one to remember? Let Art Kitchen bring the flavour and fun to your office celebration. Contact us today to discuss your catering needs and book your spot on our calendar!
Because let’s face it, nothing boosts team spirit quite like great food and a well-organised event. With Art Kitchen, you’ll have everything you need to make this Melbourne Cup your best one yet.
