AFL Grand Final 2018: Best pre-footy meals and pubs near the MCG

THE pre-footy feed is a rite of passage (if your nerves can stomach it). As the AFL Grand Final looms, here’s our guide to the best pre-game grub near the ‘G.

THE pre-footy feed is a rite of passage. Stop at any establishment within a few kilometres of the MCG on game day and it will be brimming with passionate fans eagerly anticipating their team’s impending fate.

So, if you’re planning on getting your feast on this Grand Final Day, here are some of the best places to eat, and soak up the pre-game atmosphere.

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SOUTH OF THE WALL

For a quick and easy bite, stop here for some seriously tasty Mexican fare.

This bright and breezy cantina is the ideal spot for a pre-footy pick-me-up.

Whether you’re mixing and matching some soft-shell crab, grilled fish or pork belly tacos ($7.50 each), or wolfing down grilled cheese quesadillas ($12), this cheerful Mexi-inspired eatery has it all.

The pulled pork-loaded nachos will create some hotly contested possessions ($18).

South of the Wall, 2-4 Cremorne St, Richmond. Walking time to the ‘G: 12 minutes

MS FRANKIE

If Italian is more your taste, Ms Frankie has you covered.

Knock yourself out with fresh house-made pastas, house-baked breads and seriously drool-worthy cheese and salumi boards.

We’re talking plates of hot salami and pecorino ($18), mortadella and gorgonzola ($18), and prosciutto di parma and burrata ($18).

But be sure to leave room for the pasta because you’ll want to treat yourself to fresh fettuccine with slow-cooked duck ragu ($30), pillowy gnocchi with porcini and truffle oil ($29), or simply stunning spaghetti with pomodoro ($19).

They are also offered padella style. Yep, pasta share-pans are now a thing.

Ms Frankie, 24 Cremorne St, Cremorne. Walking time to the ‘G: 13 minutes

CORNER HOTEL

This Richmond institution promises some of the best AFL atmosphere near the MCG.

Pull up a chair on the sprawling, sun-drenched rooftop and settle in for a quick counter meal — such as the flaming beef pie, chicken parma or a beef burger ($22-24).

If you’re in the mood for something a little fancier, point your fork at the Gangnam fried chicken ($15), Cuban pork sliders ($15) or braised lamb shoulder for two ($45).

Corner Hotel, 57 Swan St, Richmond. Walking time to the ‘G: 12 minutes

HUNKY DORY

This Swan St seafood eatery is the catch of the day, taking the humble fish and chips to the next level with a swathe of mouthwatering lunch options.

Think panko and parmesan-crumbed fish burgers ($20), and grilled seafood, salmon or barramundi packs with salad and rice (from $14.50) for those looking for a healthier option. Be sure to get a side of sweet potato cakes ($3), too. You won’t regret it.

Hunky Dory, 135 Swan St, Richmond. Walking time to the ‘G: 15 minutes

THE CRICKETERS ARMS

You’ll want to arrive early to snag a spot at this heaving Richmond hotel.

It embodies the spirit of a good old-fashioned public bar, making it an ideal place to get around the pre-game festivities.

Tackle some bangers and mash, chicken and tarragon pies, double beef burgers, or steak sangas.

With nothing on the menu more than $20, you can eat like a king, without spending like one. If you have time, you can even pay homage to the Dustin Martin mural (corner of Rowena Pde and Alfred St).

The Cricketers Arms, 327 Punt Rd, Richmond. Walking time to the ‘G: 7 minutes

THE TIPPLER AND CO

You can almost taste the excitement at this east-side tapas bar, which is a great option for a pre-game group date.

You’ll want to drop punt the patatas bravas ($9) straight into your mouth. Follow them up with some 12-hour, slow-braised pork ribs ($28), a crumbed taleggio slider ($6.50), or pan-seared lamb rack ($29).

The Tippler & Co, 58 Wellington Pde, East Melbourne. Walking time to the ‘G: 6 mins

This story was first published by mX Zero, brought back by Carlton Zero. Pick up your copy next Wednesday from 3pm at Flinders St, Southern Cross, Flagstaff, Parliament, Melbourne Central and Richmond stations.

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