Etihad opens new premium lounge at Melbourne International Airport

How do you create a space worthy of a city renowned for its dining, bars and hospitality? Match it on all fronts – and then some. That's how Etihad Airways has approached its "totally reimagined" Premium Lounge at Melbourne International Airport, making its offering an extension of the sophisticated city's own.

The natural light filled 800-square-metre space with floor-to-ceiling glass and expansive views across the runway has seating capacity for up to 133 guests, the airline's largest Premium Lounge outside Abu Dhabi.

At the heart of the facility is an "intimate' 26-seat dining area offering a la carte menus as well as an international buffet.

In a nod to Melbourne and Victoria's top restaurants such as Attica and Brae, there is an emphasis here on making everything in-house using produce from Victorian suppliers. This includes bread – baked twice daily – dips such as hummus, baba ghanoush and muhammara. Even pickles and ice cream are created in the lounge kitchen, while coffee is sourced from a Victorian roaster.

See also: Etihad opens first premium airport lounge in Australia

For those after something a little stronger, Etihad employed the services of drinks consultancy company, Fluid Movement to create a remarkable menu for imbibement at the lounge's new sculptural bar feature.

Victorian wines, more than 70 premium spirits, Champagne and aperitifs accompany a huge range of cocktails with flight and travel-themed names using syrups and garnishes such as candy floss and dehydrated rhubarb that are also made in-house.

There's a thoughtful range of mocktails to cater for the UAE airline's compatriot travellers.

With the commencement of A380 services June 1, The Residence guests will have access to a private lounge with custom furnishings, its own restroom and separate entry.