Restaurant

Mr McCracken

1A Larkin Blvd, Essendon Fields VIC 3041, Australia

Recommended by 43 people

Updated

Find Mr McCracken

1A Larkin Blvd, Essendon Fields VIC 3041, Australia

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HoursMonday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About Mr McCracken

Tucked beside Essendon Fields, this upscale bistro pairs lively neighborhood buzz with woodfired sourdough crusts and inventive seasonal plates. Step past the entryway fireplace into an open room humming with energy, where chefs fire steaks and blister 72-hour leaven pies in full view. Regulars gravitate toward the tuna tartare with fried anchovies, crisp barramundi, and a white chocolate passionfruit martini poured at the bar. Between easy freeway access and ample parking, it cuts out the city trek entirely—serving as a seamless staging ground for big milestone parties or an Aperol spritz before catching a flight.

  • Seamless Event Coordination: Dedicated coordinators handle floor plan adjustments and guest requests for groups of 60 to 80.
  • Open Kitchen Theater: Diners watch chefs prepare steaks, pasta, and blistered pizzas right from their tables.
  • Entryway Fireplace: An indoor hearth by the door anchors the sleek bar and dining room with cozy warmth.

What's On at Mr McCracken

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Guests Choose Mr McCracken

Discover why guests choose Mr McCracken for milestone celebrations, elevated dining, and relaxed neighborhood gatherings.

  • Responsive Pre-Event Coordination

    The dedicated functions team works collaboratively with organizers to adjust floor plans, guest counts, and special requirements right up to the event date.

    The coordination leading up to the event was great - the team, and particularly Elise - were very responsive and happy to work with me to make changes to the floor plan and guest numbers right up to the night before the event.

    Amy P
  • Open Kitchen Culinary Craftsmanship

    Guests can watch the culinary team at work through the venue's open kitchen as they prepare signature steaks and mains.

    Compliments to all the chefs which you can see preparing the food.

    Lou Bear
  • Stress-Free Event Peace of Mind

    Milestone celebrations and group functions run seamlessly thanks to hands-on floor managers and attentive staff taking care of every guest need.

    Elise was amazing in helping me with a no fuss approach which made my life so much easier when planning our event. On the night, we were totally looked after by Sam who made sure things ran smoothly.

    Nadia Grech
  • Welcoming Hearth Ambience

    The venue creates an inviting, intimate environment right from the entry hearth, offering diners a cozy setting close to home.

    The ambience was so lovely and the fireplace made the whole place warm and cosy.

    Katherine Anastasios
  • Inventive Bistro Dining & Cocktails

    The kitchen delivers thoughtful Modern Australian dining with refined takes on pub classics and specialty house cocktails.

    the menu does not just have your stock standard chicken schnitzel or burger pub food but inventive twists on pub classics.

    Alan Yap
  • Elevated Atmosphere Close to Home

    The venue blends vibrant energy, live music, and polished presentation to deliver an elevated neighborhood dining experience.

    It was definitely worth the extra 7 minute drive from our local pub to enjoy such a lovely atmosphere, exceptional service and outstanding quality food.

    Sophanny Parny Tham

Other favorites

Specialty cocktails, savory sides, and inventive desserts

  • White Chocolate Passionfruit Martini

    The white chocolate passionfruit martini was hands down the best—smooth, indulgent, and beautifully balanced without being too sweet.

    Jodi James
  • Peanut Butter Old Fashioned

    The peanut butter old fashioned was just as impressive, with a rich depth of flavour that was perfectly executed.

    Jodi James
  • French Fries

    the most beautiful French fries I’ve had in the southern hemisphere. That lemon mustard mayo was superb!

    Syd Eats
  • Chocolate Delice with Bay Leaf Ice Cream

    as was the chocolate delice with bay leaf ice cream (yes, bay leaf). Both were amazing.

    Alan Yap

Beyond the menu

Memorable operational touches and attentive hospitality at Mr McCracken

  • Flexible Pre-Event Floor Plan Coordination

    Dedicated event coordinators provide active pre-event planning, accommodating last-minute adjustments to floor plans and guest counts right up to the evening prior.

  • Welcoming Entryway Fireplace

    A welcoming indoor fireplace situated just inside the entrance creates an inviting, cosy hearth atmosphere as guests arrive.

  • Personalized Birthday Dessert Touches

    Waitstaff coordinate celebratory touches, such as pre-arranging dessert candles requested during booking to personalize family celebrations.

  • Direct Open Kitchen Views

    The open kitchen design provides guests with an active view of the chefs preparing dishes like fresh pastas, barramundi, and steaks.

Before you head over

Practical advice for planning celebrations, group dining, and effortless visits at Mr McCracken

  • Plan Group Functions Early with Coordination Staff

    For milestone gatherings or larger events, collaborate early with the planning office. The coordination team regularly accommodates flexible floor plans and last-minute attendee changes smoothly.

  • Choose the Bar Area for Quieter Conversations

    The main dining space can become quite lively and loud, especially during live music sessions. Seek out the bar area if you are after a quieter, more intimate setting.

  • Take Advantage of Convenient Parking and Freeway Access

    Located right off the freeway beneath Hyatt Place, the venue offers easy accessibility and hassle-free onsite parking, making arrival simple for groups and airport commuters.

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