Business Details
Welcome to Racecourse Hotel: Heritage Bistro & Sports Bar in Malvern East
Established in 1858, the Racecourse Hotel has been a cornerstone of Malvern East's hospitality scene for over 160 years. Our heritage-listed Spanish Mission faade, restored in 2013 by third-generation hotelier Matthew Nikakis, preserves the building's historic character while incorporating modern amenities. We specialise in seasonal menus crafted from the freshest local produce, complemented by an extensive selection of wines, beers, and ciders. Our venue features a state-of-the-art function room equipped with PA systems, projectors, and dance floors, alongside secure parking accessible via Waverley Road and Dandenong Road.The bistro's acoustic panel artwork and dry-aging meat fridge reflect our commitment to quality and innovation. With kitchen hours from 12pm-9pm daily and venue trading until 3am on weekends, we cater to both casual diners and event organisers seeking a versatile space. Our team combines generational hospitality expertise with contemporary service standards to deliver memorable dining and event experiences.
Services
Bistro Dining
Sports Bar
Function Venue
Car Parking
Seasonal Menus
Highlights and features
- Heritage-listed venue with modern hospitality amenities since 1858
- Seasonal menus crafted from locally sourced, fresh produce
- Secure parking available via Waverley Road and Dandenong Road
- Versatile function spaces with full AV equipment for events
- Award-winning combination of historic charm and contemporary service
Services
Bistro Dining
Our bistro offers seasonal menus crafted from the freshest local produce. The kitchen operates daily from 12pm-9pm, serving modern Australian cuisine with a focus on dry-aged meats and regional wines. The heritage-listed space combines historic charm with acoustic panel artwork and contemporary comforts.
Sports Bar
The sports bar features live broadcasts, TAB facilities, and multiple viewing screens for major sporting events. Guests enjoy premium bar food daily until 3am, with a community-focused atmosphere connecting patrons through shared sporting interests and social activities.
Function Venue
Our function room accommodates formal dining, cocktail events, and corporate meetings. Equipped with PA systems, projectors, and dance floors, the space offers tailored packages for weddings, conferences, and celebrations with dedicated event coordination services.
Car Parking
Complimentary secure parking is available for patrons via Waverley Road and Dandenong Road entrances. The facility ensures safe and convenient access to the venue, with designated spaces prioritised for dining and event customers.
Seasonal Menus
Menus change with the seasons to showcase the best local produce. The kitchen team utilises a dry-aging meat fridge to maintain premium quality year-round, complemented by curated wine, beer, and cider selections that rotate with the seasons.
People
Matthew Nikakis
Hotelier
Third-generation hotelier who rescued the Racecourse Hotel from development in 2013. Led heritage restoration while introducing modern amenities. Combines family hospitality experience with contemporary venue management expertise.
Questions
How do I make a bistro reservation?
Bookings can be made through our online reservation system. Select your preferred date, time, and party size for guaranteed seating during our kitchen hours (12pm-9pm daily).
What parking options are available?
We offer complimentary secure parking accessible via Waverley Road and Dandenong Road. Spaces are prioritised for dining and event customers with direct venue access.
Can I host a corporate event at the hotel?
Yes, our function room accommodates corporate meetings with PA systems, projectors, and presentation equipment. Tailored packages include catering options and dedicated event coordination services.
What makes your bistro unique?
We combine heritage architecture with modern Australian cuisine, using seasonal local produce and dry-aged meats. The bistro's acoustic panel artwork and historic setting create a distinctive dining atmosphere.
Are there sports viewing facilities?
Our sports bar features multiple screens for live broadcasts, TAB facilities, and premium bar food until 3am. The community-focused space connects patrons through shared sporting interests.
Reviews (4)
Robert Traynor
Dec 09, 2021
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I organised the outing with 6 people in total. I would have given 4 stars but for one issue. On the night both the Main menu and the Specials menus offered the Beef Pie for $19. I was thinking of having the pie but changed my mind. But when we were leaving one of the group who did order the pie was charged $25 and when queried, the staff member on the till was adamant the price was $25. Neither of us took a photo of the menus but both of us were well aware of the $19 offer in print. The person concerned later sent an email to the Racecourse Hotel but they still are adamant the price was $25.
Anne-Maree Grimaldi
Nov 27, 2021
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Fresh Mussels cooked perfectly in a flavoursome sauce. Very pleasant surroundings with friendly table service and reasonable prices. Good coffee.
Sue Lynn Goh
Nov 13, 2021
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Had a lovely meal here with our group. The sticky date was so good! Unfortunately the seafood that was with the pasta was a little raw/undercooked, even my friend who I gave the calamari to told me after we left that the calamari was raw for her too
Joseph Mangan
Nov 10, 2021
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Great service like the food . Very reasonable with their food meal prices. 2nd time there with friends .
