Melbourne is one step closer to getting its first AFL bar, with a liquor licence being approved for the Melbourne Airport venue.
The new AFL Kitchen & Bar is preparing to open its doors this month.
Located in the revamped Terminal 3 of Melbourne Airport, home of Virgin Australia, the AFL bar will offer patrons food and refreshments while watching the footy on the big screens or taking in the view of the airfield.
AFL General Manager Commercial Kylie Rogers said the opening of the AFL Kitchen & Bar demonstrated the AFL and Emirates Leisure Retail’s commitment in bringing travellers unique, world-class food and beverage concepts.
The AFL bar will also host player appearances, AFL media conferences and occasional marketing events, such as giveaways.
“Footy has the unique ability to unite fans across the country with the AFL Kitchen & Bar uniting groups or individual travelers in their passion of the game,” Rogers 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.
“The AFL is delighted to be able to bring fans another world class partnership with Emirates Leisure Retail.”
Managing Director of Emirates Leisure Retail AUS/NZ Justin Scotti said: “There is nothing Melbournians are more passionate about than AFL! We believe this concept will be a world first of its kind in any airport around the world. This will be so much more than a Bar!”
Melbourne Airport Chief of Retail, Andrew Gardiner said: “The AFL is synonymous with Melbourne, so it made perfect sense to bring the AFL Kitchen & bar to the Melbourne Airport in partnership with Emirates Leisure Retail.
“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.”
Gardiner said the Kitchen and Bar is coming at the right time as Melbourne Airport’s passenger numbers are growing at a rapid rate. Last financial year the airport welcomed 36.7 million travellers and that number is expected to rise to almost 70 million passengers per year by 2038.
