Melbourne Park, the iconic venue of the Australian Open, offers much more than just tennis. Spanning nearly 100 acres, this expansive site welcomes over 90,000 visitors daily during the tournament, transforming into a vibrant festival atmosphere. The grounds feature dedicated spaces for lounging, music, and, most notably, an array of delectable food options that reflect the rich culinary diversity of Australia. This year, the organizers have introduced innovative offerings, ensuring that every visit to the Australian Open is a unique and memorable experience.

The Australian Open has always been about showcasing the best of what Melbourne and Australia have to offer. Two key areas, the Grand Slam Oval and Garden Square, serve as hubs for these gastronomic delights. Fern Barrett, head of product growth and innovation for Tennis Australia, emphasizes the importance of integrating food into the event experience. "Food in Melbourne is deeply ingrained in our culture," she explains. "We aim to elevate our offerings, positioning the Australian Open not just as a tennis tournament but as a premier food festival."

One of the standout features of the Australian Open is its commitment to innovation. Each year, only 25% of the previous year's fan favorites are retained, while 75% of the menu items are refreshed. This ensures that returning visitors can enjoy familiar tastes alongside exciting new experiences. For instance, the Peach Melbourne—a peach and raspberry soft serve ice cream—has become a signature treat, with sales skyrocketing each year. In 2025, the AO Frappe, a grab-and-go iced coffee, was introduced to cater to the city's coffee-loving crowd, offering convenience without compromising on quality.

Partnerships with local eateries play a crucial role in shaping the culinary landscape at the Australian Open. Piccolo Panini Bar, a young and popular Melbourne eatery, made its debut this year, bringing exclusive items like the meatball panini back by popular demand. Similarly, Julia Busuttil Nishimura’s Mediterranean dishes and Entrecote’s special steak and frites burger add to the diverse menu. These collaborations highlight the event's dedication to promoting both established and emerging brands, providing a platform for smaller entities to shine on a global stage.

Beyond the main attractions, the Australian Open also focuses on social enterprises and mission-driven initiatives. This year, All Things Equal, a brand promoting inclusivity for workers with disabilities, introduced its tennis ball tart, gaining significant attention. By supporting such ventures, the tournament aims to create positive social impact alongside entertainment.

In addition to the general audience, premium experiences are available for those seeking a more luxurious setting. The Riverside Social club near the 1573 Arena offers a taste of Los Angeles through Grandmaster Recorders, an LA-based restaurant brought to Melbourne by Grant Simillie and Blake Shailes. Their menu combines American recipes with local ingredients, creating a delightful fusion that appeals to discerning guests.

The Australian Open continues to evolve, blending world-class tennis with exceptional culinary experiences. Through innovative partnerships and a focus on variety and quality, the event ensures that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories, whether they're cheering for their favorite players or savoring the flavors of Melbourne.