A New Dawn in diningwith Jason M. Jones of Entrecôte

LANDMARK by Lexus returns as the centrepiece of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, unveiling three levels of extraordinary hospitality, immersive experiences and modern luxury inspired by this year's creative theme, A New Dawn. Bringing the concept to life, acclaimed Melbourne restaurateur Jason M. Jones of Entrecôte joins as Culinary Collaborator, curating a multi-sensory dining and hospitality journey that celebrates the optimism, renewal and possibilities that come with the start of a new day.

Created exclusively for the Melbourne Cup Carnival, the collaboration sees Jones reimagine LANDMARK by Lexus through Entrecôte's dining and Gigi's cocktails, bringing together the romance of French brasserie culture, contemporary Australian produce and a shared commitment to considered luxury.

LANDMARK by Lexus forms part of Lexus Australia's continued partnership with the Victoria Racing Club, with 2026 marking the brand's 24th year as a VRC partner and ninth year as Principal Partner with exclusive naming rights to the Lexus Melbourne Cup.

This year's pavilion is inspired by Akebono, the Japanese expression for the threshold of dawn, a fleeting moment of transition, possibility and renewal before sunrise. The concept informs every aspect of the pavilion, from its architectural design and guest journey through to the culinary offering.

Commenting on this year’s culinary experience, Jones says: "The idea of A New Dawn resonated strongly with us because hospitality is ultimately about creating moments of anticipation and discovery. LANDMARK by Lexus captures that beautifully through the concept of Akebono, where guests move through a space inspired by the colours and possibilities of dawn.

“Our response was to interpret that same journey through Entrecôte’s approach to food and drink, creating experiences that evolve as guests move through the pavilion. Whether seated in the restaurant or enjoying a signature cocktail at the Level 3 Bar, every touchpoint has been designed to contribute to a sense of occasion, connection and optimism.”

Structured in two chapters, L'Aube (Dawn) and Le Jour (Day), the Level One bar dining and restaurant menu progresses through light, flavour and mood. Delicate opening dishes give way to generous expressions of classical French cooking with a nod to the Japanese heritage of Lexus. They include beetroot, gin and dill-cured salmon, a Steak Katsu Sandwich, and of course, Entrecôte's famed Steak Frites with Secret Herb Butter Sauce.

Level Three will offer a relaxed experience inspired by Gigi, Entrecôte's playful counterpart. Open from 11am to 6pm, the space will invite guests through a Japanese noren curtain to discover expertly crafted cocktails, freshly shucked oysters and the theatre of a live tartare station.

As part of the culinary journey, guests will receive a bespoke sculptural dessert by Melbourne pâtisserie and creative studio and LANDMARK Collaborator Madeleine de Proust, founded by chefs Hyo Ju Park and Rong Yao Soh. Inspired by the Lexus LFA Concept Vehicle, the dessert has been realised through a combination of 3D digital modelling, custom mould-making and refined pastry craftsmanship, reflecting the Lexus belief that innovation and artistry are most powerful when working in harmony. The creation layers toasted grain ganache, kinako jelly, madeleine sponge and macadamia crunch, delivering a dessert that is as technically impressive as it is delicately delicious.

The dining space, created by Melbourne design practice and this year's LANDMARK by Lexus Design Collaborator, Hecker Guthrie, will offer an intimate environment where guests will once again experience the ultimate in Japanese Omotenashi hospitality.

For coffee connoisseurs, St Remio returns as LANDMARK by Lexus beverage activator, serving the Lexus signature ‘CRAFTED’ Coffee for guests alongside indulgent specialties such as the Mont Blanc and Dubai Mont Blanc with a Pistachio Cloud.