The heady atmosphere of the Melbourne Cup, the race that stops the nation, is viewed by prestige car companies as an ideal medium to promote their core brand values, and Lexus is putting on big show in 2009.

Joining forces with Australian gastronome Neil Perry to deliver a "special racing and culinary experience" Lexus could well be one of the most sought-after marquees during the event.

The 'Lexus Emporium' will once again be located at Flemington's Birdcage, with Perry in attendance to ensure top class cuisine and to have a chat with Lexus customers and guests.

"Lexus is proud to be associated with Neil Perry. He is one of Australia's premiere chefs and operates under very similar values to Lexus, particularly the pursuit of perfection," said John Roca, the chief executive of Lexus Australia.

Some 200 guests will get to sample spring-influenced cuisine from Neil's top shelf restaurants, made using produce sourced in Victoria.

"I've used fresh, exciting produce that sings with flavour," revealed Perry.

"We specifically chose to use local ingredients for this event -- to support the farmers and producers affected by the bushfires earlier in the year, and showcase Victorian produce as much as possible," added Perry.

Should be lucky enough to gain entry to the Lexus Emporium during the 2009 Melbourne Cup, some of the dishes on offer will be Rockpool signature waygu beef sliders and fried fish with ginger and shallots on rice.

The menu was tailored to match the various wines and cocktails served during the Cup carnival: "The Spring Fling is a tart, refreshing combination of sparkling wine with passion fruit, blood orange and aperol -- a perfect beverage throughout the afternoon and a favourite among Rockpool Bar and Grill customers," explained Perry.

"My restaurants are built on great produce and a determination to be world class in everything we do.

"This mirrors the Lexus philosophy of delivering the best possible vehicles that are compromise free," added Perry.

Though the number of marquees at the 2009 Melbourne Cup are down for the second year in a row, largely attributable to the global financial crisis, organisers are expecting record turnouts on the day.

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