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Food
27 March 2025

Chadstone Unveils The Market Pavilion Food Destination

The $485 million project transforms Melbourne's culinary landscape with diverse dining options and fresh produce.

Chadstone has unveiled its new dining precinct, The Market Pavilion, a $485 million food and lifestyle destination that promises to transform Melbourne's culinary landscape. Officially opened on March 27, 2025, The Market Pavilion spans an impressive 26,500 square meters and boasts over 50 businesses, including gourmet food retailers, fresh produce sellers, and artisan treats.

“With the opening of The Market Pavilion, we are redefining the way Melburnians experience food. This precinct is a celebration of quality, craftsmanship, and the rich food culture that makes our city unique,” said Daniel Boyle, Chadstone’s centre manager. The Market Pavilion features everything from fishmongers to florists and fine dining establishments, catering to a diverse range of culinary preferences.

Additionally, Chadstone is introducing a re-energized Dining Laneway, which will offer casual all-day dining from 11 different restaurants, including popular names like PappaRich, Thai Social, Shanghai Red, and Kaiten Sushi Train. This expansion aims to enhance the shopping experience by providing a variety of dining options for visitors.

The Market Pavilion also introduces a unique Food Concierge service, allowing shoppers to store fresh produce for refrigeration while they continue their visit, collecting it upon departure. This complimentary service is designed to make the shopping experience more convenient and enjoyable.

On the grand opening day, an estimated 40,000 extra visitors flocked to the precinct, bringing the total number of shoppers to around 100,000. This surge in foot traffic is indicative of the excitement surrounding the new food and dining mecca, which combines the atmosphere of a farmer’s market with the elegance of restaurant dining.

Chadstone, known as Australia’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination, has invested significantly in The Market Pavilion, which promises to offer an unparalleled marketplace experience. Among the notable retailers are supermarkets ALDI, Coles, and Woolworths, alongside specialty food vendors like That’s Amore Cheese and Vic’s Butcher and Deli, which has been supplying top restaurants for over 20 years.

“Melbourne’s food scene is world-class, and we’re here to make sure home kitchens are stocked with the same restaurant-grade cuts Melbourne chefs have relied on for decades,” said Anthony Puharich, Owner of Vic’s – The Chef’s Butcher. “We’re proud to be part of the new Chadstone Market Pavilion – a true destination for food lovers.”

The new precinct is not just about shopping; it’s also about creating memorable experiences. Shoppers can participate in various festivities, including a limited-edition 24K gold donut from The Oakleigh Doughnut Co, priced at $100, with all proceeds going to My Room Children’s Cancer Charity. Additionally, shoppers have the chance to win free meat for a year from Vic’s Butcher & Deli, adding an exciting incentive for visitors.

As part of its innovative offerings, The Market Pavilion features a tech-driven AI recipe tool. Customers can input their taste preferences, dietary requirements, and the number of guests they are dining with to receive tailored recipes curated specifically for them. This personalized approach aims to enhance the culinary experience and encourage shoppers to explore new dishes.

The Market Pavilion’s opening comes at a time when Melbourne’s dining scene is evolving rapidly. Gone are the days when shopping centers offered only basic fast food outlets. Today, venues like The Market Pavilion are setting a new standard for food and dining experiences, showcasing a diverse range of cuisines and high-quality ingredients.

With the addition of this new precinct, Chadstone is solidifying its reputation as a leading destination for food enthusiasts. The Market Pavilion is larger than the Melbourne Cricket Ground, making it a significant landmark in the area. Visitors can expect to find everything from a Champagne and oyster bar to expert fishmongers and gourmet dessert shops.

Among the popular retailers in The Market Pavilion are Melbourne pastry institution Brunetti Oro, artisan chocolatier Koko Black, and a variety of specialty food vendors. Koko Black, which recently opened its second Chadstone store, has already attracted long lines starting from 6 am, highlighting the demand for high-quality chocolate and unique experiences.

“It’s all about foot traffic,” said Koko Black chief executive Rory Gration. “People come to Chadstone, and they might only shop one end, or they might be at the department store end, or they might come to the food end.” This observation underscores the strategic position of The Market Pavilion within the broader shopping complex, drawing in a diverse crowd.

As the opening festivities continue, shoppers can look forward to immersive food experiences, including exclusive tastings, masterclasses, and pop-up collaborations with some of the country’s most exciting chefs and producers. The Market Pavilion is not just a place to shop; it’s a hub for culinary exploration and enjoyment.

In conclusion, The Market Pavilion at Chadstone represents a significant investment in Melbourne’s food culture, offering a vibrant space for shoppers to indulge in high-quality food and dining experiences. As the city continues to embrace its culinary diversity, The Market Pavilion stands out as a beacon for food lovers and a testament to the evolving landscape of dining in Melbourne.