If you’re exploring Carousel Restaurants and want to dive into Melbourne’s thriving food culture, one place stands out. The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane menu is a true delight for anyone who loves hearty food and a relaxed vibe.
This article takes a close look at what you can expect from the menu, how it stands out, and why it’s worth your visit. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this guide will help you understand every delicious detail about the place.
What is The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane Menu?
The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane offers a creative twist on classic Italian comfort food. The star of the menu is the customizable meatball experience, where diners can choose their type of meatball, sauce, and base.
Popular options include beef, pork, chicken, and vegetarian balls paired with sauces like red Italian sugo or creamy white. Sides like mac and cheese, seasoned fries, and fresh Primavera salad add variety, while desserts like Tiramisu and Whoopie Mac complete the meal.
Signature Dishes That Steal the Show
The restaurant is known for its “Balls And All”, a plate that features three delicious meatballs with your choice of sauce and base. These aren’t your everyday meatballs. They’re juicy, flavorful, and crafted with top-quality ingredients.
Balls And All (3 meatballs)
You choose your meatball type, sauce, and base for a personalized Italian comfort experience. Locals praise how juicy and rich the pork fennel balls are on creamy polenta.
| Dish | Balls And All (3 Meatballs) |
|---|---|
| Description | Choice of meatball, sauce, and base for customization |
| Price | $32 (before discount) / $22.40 (with discount) |
Mini Balls (sliders)
These bite‑sized meatball sliders come on soft brioche buns, perfect for snacking or sharing. A popular mini version lets you taste pork, beef, and chicken with sauce dips.
| Dish | Mini Balls (Sliders) |
|---|---|
| Description | Brioche sliders with pork, beef, or chicken meatballs |
| Price | ~$18 (depending on variation) |
Mac & Cheese
Three‑cheese mac is topped with nutmeg pangrattato for a crunchy finish. It’s a rich side that perfectly complements the bold meatballs.
| Dish | Mac & Cheese |
|---|---|
| Description | Three-cheese pasta topped with nutmeg pangrattato |
| Price | $14 (before discount) / $9.80 (with discount) |
Potato Fries with Aioli
Crisp golden fries are served with creamy aioli for dipping. This classic side is great for pairing with a glass of wine.
| Dish | Potato Fries with Aioli |
|---|---|
| Description | Crispy fries served with house-made garlic aioli |
| Price | $14 (before discount) / $9.80 (with discount) |
Primavera Salad
A fresh mix of greens, peas, mint dressing, and creamy goat cheese. It adds a light, vibrant contrast to the heavier mains.
| Dish | Primavera Salad |
|---|---|
| Description | Greens, peas, mint dressing, and goat cheese |
| Price | $14 (before discount) / $9.80 (with discount) |
Sticky Date Pudding
Warm, gooey pudding is topped with salted caramel ice‑cream and butterscotch sauce. It’s a sweet and comforting way to end your meal.
| Dish | Sticky Date Pudding |
|---|---|
| Description | Warm pudding with salted caramel ice cream |
| Price | $14 (before discount) / $9.80 (with discount) |
Tiramisu
Layers of coffee‑soaked savoiardi, mascarpone, and marsala give creamy indulgence. It hits the right balance of sweetness and espresso richness.
| Dish | Tiramisu |
|---|---|
| Description | Espresso-soaked savoiardi with mascarpone and marsala |
| Price | $16 (before discount) / $11.20 (with discount) |
Whoopie Mac
This dessert is ice‑cream popped between two homemade cookies. It’s a playful, oversized treat that’s fun to share.
| Dish | Whoopie Mac |
|---|---|
| Description | Ice cream between two fresh-baked cookies |
| Price | $14 (before discount) / $9.80 (with discount) |
Charcuterie Board
Assorted cured meats like truffle salami and prosciutto are served with focaccia. It offers a savory snack before or alongside your meal.
| Dish | Charcuterie Board |
|---|---|
| Description | Cured meats with focaccia and condiments |
| Price | ~$24 (varies by selection) |
Grilled Mushroom with Taleggio
A single field mushroom is grilled with creamy Taleggio cheese and fragrant thyme. This side provides a savory, earthy complement to the menu.
| Dish | Grilled Mushroom with Taleggio |
|---|---|
| Description | Grilled mushroom with creamy Taleggio cheese |
| Price | ~$12–14 (based on portion) |
What’s New and Trending?
The menu updates with seasonal touches. Sometimes, new ball flavors or dessert specials are added. This keeps the experience fresh for regular visitors. There’s also a special 30% off dine-in deal from 11 AM to 4:30 PM daily. This offer makes it a top choice for lunchtime indulgence.
In a city packed with food spots, The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane menu remains competitive with its satisfying options. It’s no wonder foodies are returning again and again.
The Wine and Dine Combo
The bar offers a wide selection of wines that go perfectly with your meal. You can pick from reds, whites, or even sparkling varieties. If you’re unsure about pairing, the friendly staff will guide you. This pairing is part of what makes the dining experience complete.
Pairing wine with meatballs may sound simple, but the menu is curated with care. A spicy pork ball can be enjoyed with a bold Shiraz, while a veggie ball goes well with a light Pinot Grigio.
A Midday Break at Flinders Lane
The interior offers rustic charm with modern finishes. It feels cozy but still stylish—ideal for both casual lunches and date nights. When you walk in, the aroma of cooked garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs welcomes you.
Halfway through your experience, you might be reminded of the unique offerings in the Ragazzi Menu, another favorite among food lovers.
Desserts That Make You Stay Longer
Many guests come for the meatballs but stay for the sweets. The Whoopie Mac is a customer favorite. It features creamy ice cream sandwiched between two cookies. The Sticky Date Pudding is rich, moist, and served with salted caramel ice cream.
Both desserts are well-balanced—not too sweet, and just the right portion.
Locations
Nestled in the heart of the city, The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane sits at 135 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000. It’s open daily from 11 AM until late and reachable at (03) 9654 7545
- Flinders Lane
135 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000 - Richmond
105 Swan Street, Richmond VIC 3121 - Collingwood
98 Smith Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
Why the Menu Works
What makes The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane successful is its balance. It’s playful yet practical, rich yet affordable. The core items are customizable, which gives diners flexibility. The extras, like mac and cheese and desserts, elevate the meal into a complete experience.
This winning formula has helped the venue earn rave reviews online and loyal customers offline. It’s a place that satisfies your hunger while offering an authentic taste of Italian cuisine.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip, try to visit during the discount hours for the best value. It’s open daily and usually has room, but it’s still smart to book ahead, especially on weekends.
The location on Flinders Lane is also a bonus. You’re surrounded by other iconic places, which makes it easy to continue your food journey after your meal. You can hop into a gelato bar nearby or explore more from the Carousel Restaurants list if you’re still hungry.
Owners
Here are the owners and key figures behind The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane:
- Matteo Bruno – Founder, owner, and driving force behind the concept. He opened the Flinders Lane location in 2012, inspired by his Italian heritage and innovative food television career.
- The Meatball & Wine Bar Pty. Ltd. – The corporate entity under which the restaurant operates in Melbourne. Matteo Bruno is listed as the company principal/director.
Customer Reviews
- “The service was great, very quick and the staff were so friendly!”
- “Great city eatery. Reasonable wine list; fun place” — gave a 5/5 rating on EatClub.
- “The pork fennel meatballs were absolutely delicious! The citrus fennel salad was a lovely…”
- “We sat at the bar for lunch and had an amazing experience with Elise leading us in what we should look at on the menu…”
Case Study
We spoke to Megan R., a Melbourne local, who visits the restaurant at least twice a month. According to her:
- “I love how you can customize everything. The beef meatball with red sauce and polenta base is my go-to. The wine is amazing, and the staff make you feel like a regular even if it’s your first visit. Plus, it’s great value for money.”
This firsthand experience supports what many diners have felt—the place is welcoming and the food never disappoints. Megan also mentioned that the 30% off deal makes it a steal for anyone looking for high-quality food without spending too much.
Final Thoughts
In a city filled with diverse dining options, The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane menu continues to attract both new and returning visitors. Its rich flavors, flexible food choices, and warm ambiance make it a top pick for casual yet stylish meals.
Whether you want a quiet lunch, a quick dinner, or a date night with wine, this place checks every box. So the next time you’re craving bold flavors in a cozy setting, The Meatball & Wine Bar – Flinders Lane should be at the top of your list.
