When it comes to enjoying Italian cuisine in Melbourne, Pepe’s Italian & Liquor stands out for its warmth and sophistication. Much like Aru Restaurant, it combines the art of dining with the joy of shared moments. The pepe’s italian & liquor menu is not just about food — it’s an experience built on family-style eating, authentic flavors, and an atmosphere that feels like Italy itself.
What is Pepe’s Italian & Liquor Menu?
Pepe’s Italian & Liquor menu is a carefully curated selection of authentic Italian dishes designed for sharing and celebration. It features a mix of traditional antipasti, handmade pasta, rich mains, and indulgent desserts, all crafted using fresh local ingredients and classic Italian techniques.
The menu reflects the true spirit of Italian dining — warm, generous, and flavorful — offering everything from creamy Spicy Rigatoni Vodka to tender Polpette al Sugo and the signature Tiramisu. With its balance of comfort and sophistication, Pepe’s menu brings the taste of Italy to Melbourne, making every meal feel like a family gathering.
Owners Info
Pepe’s Italian & Liquor is owned by Lucas Restaurants, one of Melbourne’s leading hospitality groups founded by Chris Lucas. Known for creating iconic dining experiences like Chin Chin, Grill Americano, and Baby Pizza, the group brings the same passion for quality, service, and atmosphere to Pepe’s. Under Chris Lucas’s vision, the restaurant combines authentic Italian flavors with Melbourne’s modern dining culture, making the pepe’s italian & liquor a standout example of culinary craftsmanship and hospitality excellence.
Location
Pepe’s Italian & Liquor is located at 275 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, in the heart of the city’s bustling dining district. Its central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. Surrounded by Melbourne’s vibrant cafes and shops, the restaurant offers a warm, stylish setting that reflects the charm of Italy. Whether for lunch, dinner, or cocktails, the pepe’s italian & liquor provides a true taste of Italian dining right in Melbourne’s city center.
Dishes Available at Pepe’s Italian & Liquor Menu
Pepe’s concept revolves around bringing people together. The chefs design the menu to offer both simplicity and sophistication. Each meal begins with small plates that awaken your taste buds and builds up to flavorful mains and decadent desserts.
Arancini
Crispy golden rice balls filled with creamy mushrooms and parmesan, bursting with Italian flavor.
| Dish Name | Arancini |
|---|---|
| Description | Crispy rice balls with mushroom and parmesan filling, fried to golden perfection. |
| Price (Approx.) | $16 |
Antipasto Platter
A vibrant mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables served for sharing.
| Dish Name | Antipasto Platter |
|---|---|
| Description | A colorful spread of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables. |
| Price (Approx.) | $24 |
Burrata
Fresh, creamy burrata cheese paired with ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
| Dish Name | Burrata |
|---|---|
| Description | Creamy burrata served with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil drizzle. |
| Price (Approx.) | $20 |
Spicy Rigatoni Vodka
Rich tomato cream sauce with Calabrian chili and parmesan coats al dente rigatoni perfectly.
| Dish Name | Spicy Rigatoni Vodka |
|---|---|
| Description | Rigatoni pasta in a rich tomato cream sauce with Calabrian chili and parmesan. |
| Price (Approx.) | $28 |
Lamb Ragu Pappardelle
Slow-cooked lamb in red wine sauce tossed with wide, soft pappardelle noodles.
| Dish Name | Lamb Ragu Pappardelle |
|---|---|
| Description | Slow-cooked lamb ragu with herbs and red wine, tossed in wide pappardelle. |
| Price (Approx.) | $32 |
Gnocchi al Tartufo
Soft potato gnocchi covered in aromatic truffle cream sauce for a luxurious bite.
| Dish Name | Gnocchi al Tartufo |
|---|---|
| Description | Soft gnocchi coated in aromatic truffle cream sauce for a luxurious taste. |
| Price (Approx.) | $30 |
Polpette al Sugo
Tender veal and pork meatballs simmered in Napoli sauce, full of Italian warmth.
| Dish Name | Polpette al Sugo |
|---|---|
| Description | Tender veal and pork meatballs simmered in Napoli sauce, full of Italian flavor. |
| Price (Approx.) | $26 |
Eye Fillet
Juicy grain-fed beef steak grilled to perfection with rosemary butter and herbs.
| Dish Name | Eye Fillet |
|---|---|
| Description | Juicy grain-fed beef steak grilled to perfection with rosemary butter and herbs. |
| Price (Approx.) | $48 |
Chicken Parmigiana
Crispy chicken breast topped with Napoli sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil.
| Dish Name | Chicken Parmigiana |
|---|---|
| Description | Crispy chicken breast topped with Napoli sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil. |
| Price (Approx.) | $34 |
Market Fish
Seasonal fish fillet cooked with lemon butter and herbs for light, refreshing flavor.
| Dish Name | Market Fish |
|---|---|
| Description | Seasonal fish fillet cooked with lemon butter and herbs for a light, fresh taste. |
| Price (Approx.) | $38 |
Patate al Forno
Oven-roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary, olive oil, and sea salt.
| Dish Name | Patate al Forno |
|---|---|
| Description | Oven-roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary, olive oil, and sea salt. |
| Price (Approx.) | $12 |
Arugula & Pear Salad
Crisp rocket, sweet pear, and shaved parmesan drizzled with balsamic dressing.
| Dish Name | Arugula & Pear Salad |
|---|---|
| Description | Rocket leaves, sweet pear, and shaved parmesan drizzled with balsamic dressing. |
| Price (Approx.) | $14 |
The restaurant is known for its family-style dining, a reflection of Italian traditions. The pepe’s italian & liquor ensures every guest can indulge in a culinary journey that captures the heart of Italy — without leaving Melbourne.
Antipasti
Every great Italian meal begins with antipasti, and Pepe’s does it perfectly. Their menu includes light, refreshing starters that balance flavor and freshness.
Popular choices include:
- Arancini (funghi or truffle-infused)
- Antipasto platters with salumi, olives, and pickled vegetables
- Burrata with tomato, basil, and olive oil
Each antipasto option is prepared using traditional techniques, ensuring that even the simplest dish carries a burst of Italian authenticity.
Sweet Endings That Delight
The dessert section of the pepe’s italian & liquor brings the meal to a perfect close. The signature Tiramisu is a must-try — creamy, rich, and layered with espresso-soaked savoiardi. The Panna Cotta and Affogato offer lighter but equally indulgent options.
| Dessert | Description |
|---|---|
| Tiramisu | Espresso, mascarpone, cocoa |
| Panna Cotta | Creamy vanilla base with berry coulis |
| Affogato | Vanilla gelato with a shot of espresso |
Each dessert reflects the elegance and passion of Italian dining, allowing guests to end their experience on a sweet note.
Opening and Delivery Timings
Pepe’s Italian & Liquor operates with convenient hours to suit both lunch and dinner guests. The restaurant typically opens at 12:00 PM and closes at 10:30 PM, with extended hours on weekends to accommodate late-night diners. Delivery and takeaway services are also available during these times through popular platforms like Uber Eats and Deliveroo. Whether dining in or ordering at home, the pepe’s italian & liquor is accessible throughout the day for a delicious Italian experience.
| Day | Opening Hours | Delivery Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM | Yes |
| Saturday | 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Yes |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Yes |
Ambience and Dining
The ambience at Pepe’s Italian & Liquor reflects old-world Italy blended with modern Melbourne charm. The warm lighting, wooden interiors, and vintage photographs create a setting that feels nostalgic and romantic.
Dining here feels like stepping into a 1950s Italian home — intimate, welcoming, and full of laughter. Like Kiin Restaurant, Pepe’s blends fine dining with comfort, making every meal memorable.
Why People Love Pepe’s Italian & Liquor
Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its food quality, attentive staff, and excellent presentation. Online reviews highlight its balance of authenticity and creativity — a combination that makes it one of Melbourne’s favorite Italian spots.
Guests often mention that the pepe’s italian & liquor offers more than just a meal — it delivers an emotional experience that captures the warmth of Italian family dinners.
Customer Reviews
Here are some real customer comments and reviews about Pepe’s Italian & Liquor:
- “Good food, nice atmosphere, quick, friendly service.”
- “All staff were accommodating and very lovely … the food was delicious however it took 50 minutes to an hour to get to our table after we ordered.”
- “Great rustic pizzas, great wine. Tiramisu was delicious. Great atmosphere, good music, not too loud … Service was really good friendly.”
- “Awesome spot in Melbourne. Food was fantastic and the waitstaff were attentive and kind. Definitely a must visit.”
Conclusion
In every sense, pepe’s italian & liquor menu captures the essence of Italian dining — hearty, flavorful, and meant for sharing. Whether you visit for a quick lunch or a special dinner, each dish promises to deliver the warmth and passion of Italy.
With its perfectly curated menu, rich flavors, and inviting atmosphere, Pepe’s has secured its place as one of Melbourne’s most loved Italian restaurants. For those seeking an authentic Italian experience in the heart of the city, Pepe’s Italian & Liquor is the perfect destination to savor life one bite at a time.
