So, you noticed. It’s finals time here, and whilst you may or may not know everything there’s to know about AFL, all that lack of knowledge goes out the window in search of the best party. Wait one, you’ve found it.

Football finals time in Melbourne are a funny affair – that time of year when finding the just-so combination of football frenzy and social buzz is the challenge du jour. The backyard BBQ is a particular type of event, and for those not keen for that kind of grass roots commitment, going out is the way to go.

May we suggest The Merrywell? If you haven’t been yet, this is the latest gastro-pub experience at Crown. The guys behind it are American chefs Grant McPherson and Sam De Marco and even though our Australian code means that there aren’t any quarterbacks to be seen, they do know how to throw a great football party.

To celebrate, the upstairs restaurant – usually a treat associated with night-time vibes – is opening and as the big match plays across the big screens (there are 6 screens in the venue all together), you can sample the jugs of sangria (red or white), or a variety of girly cocktails to ensure that the mood is a bubbly one. Win or lose (or not care about footy at all – ssshhhh!)

The balcony will be open to bask in tany rays Melbourne’s weather might make available in between the hold-your-breath moments throughout the game, and the bar snacks menu is a selection of tasty favourites. Mini burgers or chicken lollipop buffalo wings with blue cheese anyone?

If your team loses, try the J C TEA ($23) – a blend of green tea liquor, grey Goose Poire Vodka, pomme verte syrup and balanced out with freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Go, Hawks!

Merrywell
The West End at Crown Corner of Clarendon St & Crown Riverwalk
T: 03 9292 PINT (7468)