Melbourne is famous for its laneway culture, bustling cafes, and diverse food scene. But tucked away off Meyers Place lies one of its best-kept secrets—The Waiters Restaurant. This unassuming Italian spot is more than just a place to eat; it’s a slice of Melbourne’s cultural and culinary history. Whether you’re exploring local favorites like the Gloria Jeans Menu or curious about hidden city gems, this restaurant should be on your radar.
What is The Waiters Restaurant?
The Waiters Restaurant, also known as the Italian Waiters Club, is a cozy and historic Italian family eatery. It is located in a hidden laneway off Meyers Place in Melbourne, Australia. Established in 1947, it originally served as a private after-hours club for local waiters of Italian and Spanish descent. Over time, it opened to the public and became famous for its authentic, home-style Italian dishes, no-frills atmosphere, and rich cultural history. Known for its cozy upstairs location and loyal customer base, Waiters Restaurant remains a beloved symbol of Melbourne’s post-war migrant heritage and culinary tradition.
Owners Info
Waiters Restaurant has been owned and operated by the De Martino family for many years. They have played a key role in preserving the restaurant’s authentic Italian charm and long-standing traditions. The family is committed to maintaining the warm, welcoming atmosphere and classic menu that have made the restaurant a beloved institution in Melbourne since 1947.
Location
Waiters Restaurant is located at 20 Meyers Place, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Tucked away in a narrow laneway, the entrance is discreet and leads up a steep staircase, adding to its hidden-gem charm. Its central location in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists looking for an authentic Italian dining experience.
How Waiters Restaurant Began
Waiters Restaurant, also known as the Italian Waiters Club, opened in 1947. Back then, it was a private club where Italian and Spanish waiters from nearby restaurants would gather after their shifts. The place started as a haven for workers in hospitality, but it gradually evolved into a full-fledged restaurant.
Today, it operates as a licensed eatery known for its no-nonsense decor and mouthwatering Italian classics. Unlike flashy modern spots, Waiters Restaurant has kept its authentic charm. The dining space is located up a narrow flight of stairs and feels more like a local clubhouse than a commercial restaurant.
Menu and Prices at The Waiters Restaurant
When you walk into Waiters Restaurant, you’re welcomed with a casual, old-school ambiance. There are wooden chairs, white tablecloths, and a comforting lack of pretense. It’s the kind of place where regulars know the waitstaff, and the menu rarely changes—because it doesn’t need to.
Pasta lovers are in for a treat here. Dishes like spaghetti marinara, veal scallopini, and chicken parmigiana are not only flavorful but also affordable.
Spaghetti Marinara
A generous bowl of spaghetti tossed with fresh seafood in a rich, savory tomato-based sauce.
| Dish | Spaghetti Marinara |
|---|---|
| Description | Spaghetti tossed with fresh seafood in tomato sauce. |
| Price (AUD) | $22 |
Veal Scallopini
Tender veal slices cooked in a delicate white wine and butter sauce with a touch of lemon.
| Dish | Veal Scallopini |
|---|---|
| Description | Tender veal in white wine, butter, and lemon sauce. |
| Price (AUD) | $24 |
Chicken Parmigiana
Breaded chicken breast topped with melted cheese and tangy tomato sauce, baked to perfection.
| Dish | Chicken Parmigiana |
|---|---|
| Description | Breaded chicken with cheese and tomato sauce. |
| Price (AUD) | $23 |
Eggplant Parmigiana
Layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese baked until golden and bubbling with flavor.
| Dish | Eggplant Parmigiana |
|---|---|
| Description | Baked eggplant with tomato sauce and melted cheese. |
| Price (AUD) | $21 |
Lasagna
Classic Italian lasagna with layers of pasta, seasoned meat, béchamel, and rich tomato sauce.
| Dish | Lasagna |
|---|---|
| Description | Traditional layers of pasta, meat, and béchamel. |
| Price (AUD) | $22 |
Linguine with Prawns
Juicy prawns served over linguine with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for a light seafood delight.
| Dish | Linguine with Prawns |
|---|---|
| Description | Linguine with prawns, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. |
| Price (AUD) | $24 |
Fettuccine Carbonara
Creamy fettuccine tossed with crispy pancetta, egg, and parmesan cheese in traditional Roman style.
| Dish | Fettuccine Carbonara |
|---|---|
| Description | Creamy pasta with pancetta, egg, and parmesan. |
| Price (AUD) | $23 |
Risotto of the Day
A creamy arborio rice dish made fresh daily with seasonal ingredients and Italian flavors.
| Dish | Risotto of the Day |
|---|---|
| Description | Daily-made creamy risotto with seasonal flavors. |
| Price (AUD) | $22 |
Tiramisu
A soft, coffee-soaked sponge layered with mascarpone cream and cocoa powder—an Italian favorite.
| Dish | Tiramisu |
|---|---|
| Description | Coffee-soaked sponge with mascarpone and cocoa. |
| Price (AUD) | $10 |
Panna Cotta
Smooth, silky vanilla panna cotta served with a fresh berry compote for a sweet finish.
| Dish | Panna Cotta |
|---|---|
| Description | Creamy vanilla dessert with berry compote. |
| Price (AUD) | $10 |
Waiters Restaurant prides itself on serving classic food with big flavors. The simplicity of the ingredients and cooking techniques reflects the roots of Italian cuisine—humble yet satisfying.
Cultural Importance and Local Love
Over the years, Waiters Restaurant has attracted not only locals but also celebrities, politicians, and international tourists. Its importance goes beyond the food. It represents Melbourne’s post-war migrant history and celebrates the role of waiters and hospitality workers who built much of the city’s restaurant culture.
The restaurant even made headlines in 1978, when it became the center of a dramatic hostage situation involving a man who demanded the release of underworld figure Mark “Chopper” Read. The situation ended non-violently when the man’s mother famously intervened.
Despite the event, the restaurant’s legacy continued to grow. Generations of families have dined at Waiters Restaurant, often returning for birthdays, anniversaries, and reunions.
Why People Keep Coming Back
There are many reasons why Waiters Restaurant has stood the test of time:
- Consistently delicious food
- Reasonable pricing
- No-frills, homey environment
- Genuine, friendly service
- Rich history that connects generations
In a city that constantly reinvents itself, this restaurant remains a symbol of comfort and authenticity. People who visit once often return, and many become lifelong patrons.
While many flock to explore trending eateries like those offering the Louie Coogee Menu, others prefer something tried, tested, and heartwarming. For them, Waiters Restaurant feels like a second home.
When to Visit
Here’s a table summarizing the general operating hours:
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 5:30 PM – 10 PM |
| Tuesday | 5:30 PM – 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 5:30 PM – 10 PM |
| Thursday | 5:30 PM – 10 PM |
| Friday | 5:30 PM – 11 PM |
| Saturday | 5:30 PM – 11 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Delivery Availability
| Service Type | Available |
|---|---|
| Dine-In | Yes |
| Takeaway | Limited |
| Delivery | No |
Reservations are not always required, but it’s a good idea to call ahead on weekends as the space fills up quickly.
Still Going Strong in 2025
Rumors swirled in early 2025 that Waiters Restaurant might be closing its doors. These concerns arose when the owners listed the property for sale. However, official statements confirmed that the restaurant is not shutting down. The intention behind the sale is simply about transferring ownership—not ending the legacy.
The current team is committed to maintaining the quality, tradition, and identity that have defined the venue for over 75 years. If anything, they are looking to modernize some aspects without compromising what makes the place unique.
Customer Reviews
Here’s a list of customer reviews for Waiters Restaurant, each with the reviewer’s name:
- Emily R. – “A hidden gem in Melbourne—delicious pasta and great value!”
- James T. – “Feels like stepping back in time. The food is simple but amazing.”
- Sophia M. – “Service is quick and friendly. The spaghetti marinara was a standout.”
- Daniel K. – “Perfect for a casual dinner. Big portions and bold flavors.”
- Olivia B. – “Old-school vibes with top-notch Italian dishes. Loved the tiramisu!”
- Liam H. – “Affordable, authentic, and cozy. You’ll want to come back.”
- Grace L. – “The best kind of no-frills restaurant—just good food and warm people.”
Final Thoughts
In a world where dining experiences are often curated for social media, The Waiters Restaurant offers something real. It’s a place where the focus remains on flavor, heritage, and people. There’s no need for fancy plating or designer interiors—just good food and good memories.
So next time you’re wandering through Melbourne’s laneways, take the stairs up to this historic eatery. You won’t just be enjoying a meal—you’ll be experiencing a piece of Melbourne’s soul.
