AFL-themed bar and cafe set to open at Melbourne Airport

Melbourne’s footy obsession will be taken to new heights with the opening of an AFL-themed bar and cafe at Melbourne Airport. Find out what’s on offer.

Footy fans waiting for flights will be able to watch their teams play on big screens at an AFL-themed bar and cafe to open at Melbourne Airport.

The AFL Kitchen & Bar will also feature appearances by players, special marketing events, and media conferences by coaches.

To be located in Terminal 3 used by Virgin Australia, the venue is a partnership between the AFL and Emirates Leisure Retail.

Dubbed a world-first concept, it’s described as a family-friendly hospitality hub in which fans can immerse themselves in the Aussie rules atmosphere.

AFL general manager commercial Kylie Rogers said the opening of the venue showed the AFL’s and Emirates Leisure Retail’s commitment to world-class food and beverage concepts.

“Footy has the unique ability to unite fans across the country, with the AFL Kitchen & Bar uniting groups or individual travellers in their passion for the game,” she said.

“Flying into Melbourne, or interstate for a match, the AFL Kitchen & Bar will give you a footy fix prior to departure or as soon as you land.”

An artist's impression of the AFL Kitchen and Bar to open at Melbourne Airport.

Emirates Leisure Retail spokesman Justin Scotti said there was nothing Melburnians were more passionate about than AFL.

“We believe this concept will be the first of its kind in any airport around the world. This will be so much more than a bar,” he said.

Patrons will be able to watch live and classic matches on big screens, while the venue will offer “stunning” views of the airfield.

It will also host player appearances, AFL media conferences and occasional marketing events, such as giveaways.

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Melbourne Airport chief of retail Andrew Gardiner said the concept was part of the airport’s hospitality refresh.

“The venue will be a great addition to the airport’s hospitality offering, giving footy fans the ability to watch their team play pre-flight,” he said.

Construction has started and it’s due to open in November.

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