Top restaurants set up shop at this year's Royal Melbourne Show

The Royal Melbourne Show brings a little bit of country twang to the city, but the demand to up the ante on food, plus a larger and better-designed show bag pavilion, and more entertainment to keep adults happy gives this year’s event a mighty kick in a new direction.

If you’re keen to do things a little differently at the show this year (and keep your kids off the sugar highs even for a moment; go on, I dare you) head to The Meadow; an undercover pavilion which is back for a second year with a host of Melbourne’s best eateries.

You’ll find 400 Gradi, Biggie Smalls and Miso Fresh serving from food trucks while 6Ft6Wines brings its “silver bullet” caravan along.

Shane Delia’s Biggie Smalls is serving chicken kebabs and share plates while Miso Fresh delivers on Japanese fusion – think chicken karaage and teriyaki tofu soba salads.

For an opportunity to dine tableside, venture to the new Angus Steakhouse. This is where Angus beef celebrates 100 years in Australia.

Think sirloin steaks, Angus burgers and other chargrilled specials that change daily. There’s also a vegetarian and vegan option and a children’s menu.

According to the show’s chief executive, Paul Guerra, The Meadow is a perfect chill-out zone for dining in a laidback environment.

Kick back in the 140-seater classic pub-style steakhouse in between stints visiting livestock and tasting pavilions. Executive chef and head of food and beverage Neil Rocke says the Angus Steakhouse will sell new cuts and encourage diners to eat and drink well, and chill with the family.

“The Steakhouse is definitely a place to sit back and relax in a more grown-up environment,” Rocke says.

If your kids took part in the Climate Strike this year, then the New Joneses will resonate with all budding environmentalists doing it for the future.

This sustainable pop-up tiny home (created by founder Tamara Di Mattina) encourages visitors to discover ways their family can help the planet. Small steps include saying no to straw use, switching to LED lighting, swapping processed food for “real food” and buying grey water-safe cleaning products.

And, then there are the show bags. With more than 300 to choose from, we recommend you have a look online and make your shortlist first.

The Beatles show bag (it comes with a beach towel) is one to check out while AFL-themed bags always sell out due to finals fever in Melbourne.

Bertie Beetle (still just $2) is there if you’re feeling nostalgic, while the Elle tote (filled with products worth more than $270) is popular. From Cosentino the Illusionist’s stage show to the Elton John Experience musical, there’s something for every generation. Show organisers have embraced the idea of an artist-in-residence. Colombian-born and Melbourne-based sculptor Alexander Esenarro will create artworks over 11 days. Adults should also check the Winning Tastes Pavilion for award-winning food and drinks.

While there, enjoy That’s Amore Cheese, Dane’s Coffee (for the best caffeine hit by this year’s Champion Australian Roasters) and desserts – if you’re gonna eat sweets, do it in style with Christy Tania’s spectacular glace creations.

Royal Melbourne Show 2019 \ September 21-October 1. 

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