Victoria Racing Club announces new hospitality partnership with Lucas Collective for the 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival.

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of the VRC and Lucas Collective to innovation, premium hospitality, providing new dining experiences across Flemington, and celebrating Melbourne’s vibrant cultural identity. This collaboration promises to set a new benchmark for excellence, blending world-class culinary experiences with the unique spirit of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

VRC Chief Executive Officer Kylie Rogers said the partnership represents a significant evolution in the Carnival’s hospitality offering.

“Partnering with Lucas Collective allows us to elevate the Melbourne Cup Carnival’s hospitality offering with brands that are not only globally recognised but deeply embedded in Melbourne’s dynamic dining landscape.

The creativity, energy and commitment to exceptional culinary experiences showcased across Society, Chin Chin and Yakimono mirror what we strive to deliver for our members and patrons seeking an elevated experience.”

Lucas Collective Founder Chris Lucas said the group was delighted to bring its signature dining experiences to one of Australia’s most iconic events.

"Melbourne has always been a city defined by its restaurants and its sporting culture. Bringing those two worlds together at the Melbourne Cup Carnival feels like a natural fit, and I'm incredibly proud that Lucas Collective will be part of such an iconic Melbourne institution."

"What excites me most is the opportunity to introduce our restaurants to guests in a completely new setting. Every venue has its own personality and bringing that to life at the Melbourne Cup Carnival has been a real focus for our team. Whether it's a bite between races or a long lunch, we want every experience to feel as special as dining in one of our restaurants," says Lucas.

The Lucas Collective premium hospitality experiences racegoers can enjoy across the 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival are detailed below, with the quotes attributable to CEO Kylie Rogers.

Dining by Society in The Byerley

Society is an innately Melbourne dining experience, recognised globally for its sophisticated menu that celebrates produce and technique. Dining by Society will take up residence in The Byerley for a refined Members experience from Turnbull Stakes Day and across the Melbourne Cup Carnival. Members will enjoy a European-inspired signature menu curated by Society’s Executive Chef Joachim Lim, designed to bring the restaurant’s globally recognised experience to Flemington.

Chin Chin on Flemington’s Front Lawn

Chin Chin, one of Australia’s most recognisable and energetic dining institutions, will take over a pocket of Flemington’s famous Front Lawn, delivering a 60-minute iconic “feed me” experience for the general public. Positioned beside the buzzing Fashions on the Field Pavillion, the seated dining activation will offer a curated menu of Chin Chin classics designed for racegoers who want an elevated experience without missing the action.

“Chin Chin is synonymous with Melbourne’s vibrant, social dining culture, making it an ideal fit for Flemington’s famous Front Lawn. This fast, fun and flavour-packed experience is designed for racegoers who want incredible food without missing a moment of the action.”

Yakimono in The Birdcage

Yakimono, Melbourne’s energetic and vibrant Japanese-inspired eating house, will bring its renowned electrifying atmosphere to The Birdcage. Members and Birdcage guests can enjoy signature Japanese bites from a dedicated Yakimono retail station next to the vibrant live stage.

“Yakimono’s high-energy and bold approach to Japanese dining will bring a sharp new edge to The Birdcage. With quick, vibrant street-style bites for Birdcage patrons, Yakimono will deliver the colour, movement and flavour synonymous with Cup Week.”

The VRC will reveal more of the incredible Melbourne Cup Carnival culinary lineup soon.