On Monday 2 March, Melbourne’s hospo crowd is clocking off early and lacing up. The Hospitality Cup is back, taking over the Home of the Matildas in Bundoora for a full day five a side football tournament that swaps kitchen whites and aprons for jerseys and boots. From 10am to 5pm, 24 teams from some of the city’s favourite venues will battle it out for bragging rights.
Expect to see crews from France Soir, Albert’s, Freddy’s, D.O.C and Emilia Trattoria trading the pass for the pitch in what’s shaping up as a high energy celebration of community, connection and friendly rivalry.
Off the field, it’ll feel more like a mini food festival than a sports day. Players will be fuelled by D.O.C, while the Mr Latino food truck keeps spectators sorted. The main bar will be pouring Pap Salt, Tito’s Vodka, Heineken Silver and Bertie Cider, plus there’s a dedicated Taittinger Champagne Lounge for those keen to watch from the sidelines with a glass in hand. Coffee and hydration are covered too thanks to illy and San Pellegrino.
Founded by Jean-Baptiste Dumas of France Soir, the event was created to give hospitality workers a chance to connect outside long shifts and late nights, while raising funds for a local mental health charity.
“Hospitality is built on passion and people,” says Dumas. “This is about bringing everyone together, creating connection through sport, and celebrating the community that makes Melbourne’s dining scene world-class.”
For more information visit https://www.hospitalitycup.com/
