Seven new cafes and restaurants have opened inside Melbourne Airport’s Terminal 1 dining precinct known as The Square, including local favourites Rustica, Pope Joan, Veneziano and ST. ALi.
Other venues in the new $20 million space include Mobo Moga – owned by Gary Mehigan, The Local Taphouse – run by Stomping Ground Brewing Co, and The Grace Wine Bar and Eatery.
Restaurants in the 2,400smq2 precinct open as early as 4:30 am, serving travellers up until half an hour before the last Qantas domestic departure.
Melbourne Airport Chief of Retail Jai McDermott said the exciting redevelopment builds on the city’s food culture, connecting travellers to some of Melbourne’s finest cafes and restaurants.
“Melbourne is widely regarded as Australia’s foodie capital, so we carefully selected food and beverage operators that showcase our city’s finest coffee, food and bars,” he said.
“The redeveloped dining precinct is designed to reflect our city with brands people know and love featuring food and cuisines that can be found in the CBD, Richmond, Collingwood, St Kilda and South Yarra.”
Mr McDermott added the new space, directly after Qantas security screening, encourages guests to dine in rather than eat at communal tables like a traditional food court.
“There’s something for everyone inside The Square with restaurant-style service, and grab-and-go options, creating an elevated dining experience featuring fantastic views of the airfield,” he said.
The Terminal 1 Square redevelopment created around 120 jobs during construction and 160 ongoing hospitality roles.
