Attica

Set aside an evening for Ben Shewry’s Australian tasting menu at Attica in Ripponlea. The meal brings local ingredients and stories to the table over a series of courses; it is a substantial part of your trip, with time to settle in and enjoy the service.

Tuesday or Wednesday before the Grand Prix is a good fit for a full Melbourne week. Leave the afternoon free of a distant excursion and arrange both journeys before dinner. Attica serves Tuesday to Saturday evenings, so a Sunday celebration after the race needs a different restaurant.

The multi-course menu currently costs A$425 per person before drinks. Seats are released 90 days ahead at 09:00 Melbourne time, and a A$150 per-person deposit is credited to the bill. Give the restaurant dietary information at least 72 hours ahead. A table should be a deliberate evening booking, with a return journey that works after a long meal.