With the Australian Open set to commence on Monday, January 12, excitement is building not only for tennis enthusiasts but also for food lovers. The much-anticipated arrival of the iconic American burger chain, Shake Shack, is finally happening in Australia. This marks the first time Australians can savor Shake Shack’s renowned burgers without having to embark on a long-haul flight to the United States.
The New York-based brand will make its Australian debut at the TOPCOURT and John Cain Arena throughout the tournament, which runs from January 12 to February 1. This strategic move coincides with the evolution of the Australian Open, which has grown into one of the country’s largest summer festivals, blending sports, culture, and gastronomy.
Shake Shack’s Strategic Australian Open Debut
Shake Shack will be serving its iconic burgers at two prime locations: inside TOPCOURT, a newly established entertainment precinct at Birrarung Marr, just outside Melbourne Park, and at John Cain Arena. This open-air precinct is designed to cater to a Gen-Z and festival-first audience, offering a vibrant mix of live electronic music, food pop-ups, gaming, and cultural experiences, all accessible with a Ground Pass ticket.
During the opening week, the precinct will host performances from international and Australian acts such as Hot Chip, Elderbrook, and The Presets. Fans can enjoy world-class tennis during the day and transition to an evening of DJs and drinks, complemented by a Shake Shack burger.
The Menu: What to Expect
Shake Shack’s Australian outlet will serve the classic ShackBurger, featuring a single cheeseburger with a smashed Angus beef patty, melted American cheese, tomato, lettuce, and the secret ShackSauce on a toasted potato bun. Additionally, an exclusive Australian Open Shake will be available at TOPCOURT throughout January, adding a unique local twist to the menu.
Public Reaction and Market Expectations
The announcement of Shake Shack’s arrival has sparked significant excitement online, with Australians expressing their enthusiasm. Social media buzz includes comments like,
‘Shake Shack finally coming to Aus is everything,’
and
‘What?!? World’s best burger finally hits Melbourne. Do I need to start lining up now?’
However, not all reactions have been positive. Some Australians have voiced concerns over potential high prices, with one user joking,
‘$50 for a burger chips then, is it?’
Others question the choice of an international brand over local favorites, suggesting alternatives like Betty’s Burgers.
Implications for the Australian Open
Following the official media launch in October, Tennis Australia’s Fern Barrett emphasized how Shake Shack’s presence reflects the growth of the Australian Open beyond the tennis courts. Barrett stated,
‘Shake Shack’s arrival at the AO underlines how much this event has grown beyond the court. It’s a festival of food, sport and culture.’
The event will also feature innovations such as expanded in-seat ordering, precinct roving vending to reduce queue times, and new automated snack services, enhancing the overall spectator experience.
The Australian Open will also bring back popular food and drink offerings, including the fan-favorite dessert Peach Melbourne and the Grey Goose Lemon Ace cocktail, adding to the festival atmosphere.
Looking Ahead: A New Era of Culinary Experiences
As the countdown to the Australian Open continues, the arrival of Shake Shack signifies a new era of culinary experiences at the event. With tennis, live music, pop-ups, and one of America’s most famous burgers all converging next week, the Australian Open promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees. This development not only highlights the growing intersection of sports and entertainment but also sets a precedent for future international brand collaborations in Australia.
