Melbourne airport terminal 1 welcomes seven new dining hotspots at the Square

Monday, December 25, 2023

The Square, within Melbourne Airport Terminal 1, has welcomed seven new cafes and restaurants, enriching its dining experience. Notable local favorites such as Rustica, Pope Joan, Veneziano, and ST. ALi have joined this precinct, alongside other exciting venues like Mobo Moga, The Local Taphouse by Stomping Ground Brewing Co, and The Grace Wine Bar and Eatery, making a total investment of $20 million into this new space.

Operating from as early as 4:30 am, these establishments cater to travelers until thirty minutes before the final Qantas domestic departure. Jai McDermott, Melbourne Airport’s Chief of Retail, expressed enthusiasm for this redevelopment, emphasizing its alignment with Melbourne’s renowned food culture. He highlighted the deliberate selection of food and beverage operators representing the city’s finest coffee, food, and bars.

McDermott noted the precinct’s design mirrors the essence of Melbourne, showcasing well-loved brands and diverse cuisines reminiscent of CBD, Richmond, Collingwood, St Kilda, and South Yarra. The layout encourages guests to enjoy a dine-in experience rather than opting for traditional food court communal tables, aiming to offer something appealing for every visitor.

Emphasizing the elevated dining experience and stunning airfield views, McDermott expressed anticipation for a robust passenger turnout during the festive season leading up to Christmas.

The Terminal 1 Square redevelopment not only introduced a vibrant culinary landscape but also generated 120 construction jobs and now sustains 160 ongoing roles in the hospitality sector.

These newly unveiled venues complement other upgrades in the terminal, including modern dining options like Hungry Jacks, Sushi Jiro, Liv Eat, and Icons Victoria.

Each venue brings a unique flavor and experience:

• Rustica, established in 2012, offers artisan bread and pastries using traditional sourdough techniques.
• Veneziano stands out for its top-tier coffee, served alongside traditional breakfast and lunch options.
• Pope Joan presents fresh seasonal meals and an extensive wine list, capturing the essence of Melbourne’s food scene.
• ST. ALi, a pioneer in specialty coffee, delivers expertly brewed coffee through direct farmer relationships and in-house roasting.
• Mobo Moga, owned by Gary Mehigan, promises a fusion of Victoria’s best products with innovative Asian dishes.
• The Local Taphouse boasts Melbourne Airport’s widest beer selection with 60 taps and panoramic airfield views.
• The Grace Wine Bar and Eatery, owned by renowned chef Ray Capaldi, offers an expression of Melbourne’s flavors, including curated dishes, Victorian grazing boards, and an extensive wine and cocktail list.

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