This March, lovers of film and food will flock to Caulfield Racecourse to discover Gourmet Cinema, a fresh initiative that marries two of Melbourne’s cultural passions.
From 2-6 March, 2016, the verdant outdoor space will showcase a different kind of entertainment, activated by a big screen and sophisticated food from five of Melbourne’s best operators; Epocha, Le Bon Ton, Baby, Mamasita and The European.
Each night, one restaurant will become the hero curator, presenting a special menu to match the evening’s screening.
The films have been carefully chosen to complement the vendors, including classics such as Midnight in Paris and The Grand Budapest Hotel.
“We’re really excited to be part of this great Melbourne event,” said chef at The European, Ian Curley. “Midnight in Paris just happens to be my favourite Woody Allen film, it’s an absolute winner and the classic dishes we have chosen for the screening will match it perfectly.”
Gates will open at 6pm, allowing for two hours of grazing prior to commencement of the evening’s film at 8.30pm and each restaurant will serve up two or three dishes that can be purchased separately from the entry ticket cost.
Seating will be mostly on the lawn, with rugs available for purchase on the site (though guests are welcome to bring their own), making it one big cinematic picnic. A limited number of comfortable deck chairs and beach chairs will also be available for hire onsite each night.
Presented by South Yarra BMW, Gourmet Cinema will take patrons on a sensory journey through food and film in the beautiful surrounds of Caulfield Racecourse.
“Gourmet Cinema is a cultural roundup, bringing people together through a shared love for food and the big screen, as well as the pleasure of being outdoors during the warmer seasons,” said Jason Shugg, Executive Director of Marketing at Melbourne Racing Club.
The event will be held on an expansive grass lawn within the grounds and has a nightly capacity of 1500.
Gourmet Cinema will be open to guests of all ages, with concessions and seniors paying a reduced entrance fee.
Further details of the menus for each vendor and drink sponsors will be available on the website soon.
Tickets are available now at www.gourmetcinema.com.au.
Session dates, hero restaurants and films:
Wednesday, 2 March:
Epocha – The Grand Budapest Hotel
Thursday, 3 March:
Le Bon Ton – The Big Lebowski
Friday, 4 March:
Baby – The Great Beauty
Saturday, 5 March:
Mamasita – Chef
Sunday, 6 March:
The European – Midnight in Paris Ticket prices:
Adult: $19.50 + booking fee
Concession: $14.50 + booking fee