The Rare Tour Lands in Melbourne: A Steakhouse Showdown at Meatmaiden

Melbourne’s love affair with great steak is about to hit new heights as The Rare Tour makes its Australian debut. The global dining series, an offshoot of The World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants, has already made waves in London and New York, and now it’s Melbourne’s turn to take the stage.

The event brings together two powerhouses in the steak world—Meatmaiden, one of Melbourne’s most respected modern steakhouses, and Stockholm’s Restaurang AG, ranked No. 9 on The World’s Best Steak Restaurants list. Across three nights, these two distinct approaches to steak will collide in a one-off menu designed to push the boundaries of what a steakhouse experience can be.

A Clash of Styles: Scandinavian Precision Meets Melbourne Boldness

Restaurang AG is known for its meticulous approach, specialising in premium cuts and dry-aging techniques that enhance flavour and tenderness. Their process can stretch beyond 80 days, resulting in some of the most sought-after steaks in the world. Meatmaiden, on the other hand, is all about big flavours, wood-fired cooking, and a vibrant energy that has cemented its place as one of the city’s best spots for serious meat lovers.

The collaboration is more than just a meeting of two restaurants—it’s a battle of techniques, traditions, and ideas, all in the name of steak.

The Menu: Rare Cuts and Showstoppers

Diners can expect an experience packed with signature dishes and rare cuts that showcase the best of both steakhouses. Highlights include:

• The Flintstone – AG’s bold take on a bone marrow entrée, designed to be both rich and theatrical.
• Lobster Mac Cheese – A reimagined version of Meatmaiden’s cult favourite, with a few surprises.
• 70+ Day Tallow-Aged Stone Axe Wagyu Rib Eye 9+ – The main event, featuring a technique that uses beef fat to intensify flavour and texture.

With only 500 seats available over three nights, this is a dinner designed for those who truly appreciate steak.

The Rare Tour has chosen some of the best steakhouses around the world, so why Melbourne? According to Meatmaiden owner Neil Hamblen, the organisers have been watching the restaurant for some time and love its unique take on what a modern steakhouse can be.

With the city’s reputation for high-quality produce, a strong food culture, and a love for big, bold dining experiences, it makes sense that The Rare Tour would land here. This event is a chance for Melbourne to prove once again why it belongs on the world stage.

The Details

• Dates: Tuesday 29 April – Thursday 1 May
• Tickets: $240 per person, available at Meatmaiden’s website

For steak lovers, this is a rare chance to see two of the world’s best go head-to-head—no passport required.