Restaurant
Pepe's Italian & Liquor
275-285 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Find Pepe's Italian & Liquor
275-285 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Directions ↗*Opening hours may differ during holidays.
Book NowAbout Pepe's Italian & Liquor
Off Exhibition Street, Pepe’s Italian & Liquor pairs mid-century Roman mood with generous, unapologetic Italian comfort. Booths fill fast during the pre-theatre rush, backed by an outdoor courtyard garden and the whimsical styling of Pepe's Parlour. Walk-ins crowd the bar for amaretto sours and bowls of spicy rigatoni alla vodka—the chili heat is front and center, not subtle. Plates land quickly: crusty house-baked garlic-butter focaccia, tender fresh pasta, and thin blistered pizzas with sweet San Marzano tomatoes. It wraps up naturally with a shared tiramisu or warm bombolini.
- Multi-Zone Layout: Moody, dim indoor dining and Pepe's Parlour paired with an open-air courtyard garden.
- Italian Comfort Classics: Chili-forward spicy rigatoni alla vodka, crisp pizzas, and generous fresh pastas.
- Swift, Adaptable Service: Fast-paced floor team handling pre-show rushes, group dinners, and bar walk-ins.
What's On at Pepe's Italian & Liquor
Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.
No events or specials listed right now.
Why Dine at Pepe's Italian & Liquor
Discover why guests choose Pepe's Italian & Liquor for memorable celebrations, casual drop-ins, and Italian classics in Melbourne CBD.
Multi-Zone Venue Architecture
Pepe's features distinct micro-environments across Exhibition Street, including an intimate dining room bar, Pepe's Parlour diner extension, and an outdoor garden lounge.
the venue is thoughtfully divided into three unique spaces
Meril Ayoub Atmospheric Italian Ambience
The dining spaces feature warm mood lighting, burgundy banquettes, and transportive Italian styling that creates an immersive European feel.
The restaurant has a warm and friendly atmosphere with decor walls, soft lighting, and comfortable seating
Kaushal Patel Generous Classic Italian Portions
Pepe's serves comforting, hearty Italian mains and pizzas with generous portion sizes suited for sharing.
The portions were generous but not too heavy.
Kaushal Patel Signature Spicy Rigatoni Vodka
The kitchen's signature baked rigatoni brings bold, pronounced chili heat alongside a rich tomato-cream vodka sauce.
My go-to is the spicy rigatoni alla vodka, just a heads up, the chilli definitely has a kick, it’s not subtle.
Jaz Explores Effortless Group Celebrations
Large parties and milestones are catered with dedicated, attentive staff who keep group dining effortless and upbeat.
Our guests had a fantastic time, and I highly recommend Pepe’s Italian for a special occasion.
Stefania Cotrone Vibrant Social Evenings
With shareable pasta, pizzas, and cocktail carafes, the lively floorplan is tailored for friend gatherings and celebratory evenings.
The atmosphere was exactly what we needed relaxed and fun.
Candice Elle Chambers
Most popular items
Signature pasta dishes and artisanal pizzas that define the Pepe's experience.
Spicy Rigatoni Alla Vodka
have actually been dreaming about the spicy vodka pasta since and am going to have to make a trip back again soon.
Nicole Walker Lamb Mafaldine
For main I had the 12 hour slow cooked lamb pasta, perfect!
A Bunny Yay Fettuccine Funghi
I enjoyed the focaccia (adding the cheese and garlic butter is a must) and the fettuccine fungi.
Hailey Appel Margherita Pizza
The classic Margherita Pizza was also very good, with a crispy thin crust, sweet San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella.
Kaushal Patel
Other favorites
Antipasti starters and authentic Italian desserts to begin and conclude your dining experience.
Tiramisu
We shared the tiramisu for dessert which is not to be missed!
Hailey Appel House Baked Focaccia
we ordered the HOUSE BAKED FOCACCIA which was crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Julia Ranellone Arancini
ARANCINI was tasty with lovely mushroom flavour and a great amount of cheese.
Julia Ranellone Bombolini
warm Bombolini I just have no words.
Sophie Ramage
Beyond the menu
Attentive service touches and thoughtful dining hospitality at Pepe's Italian & Liquor
Dedicated Event Care
Dedicated coordination and hands-on floor hosting by named staff ensure milestone occasions and group dinners unfold smoothly.
Attentive Dietary Accommodations
Servers offer detailed menu guidance and actively facilitate specific allergy and dietary requirements across shared meals.
Welcoming Walk-In Hospitality
Even during busy Friday evenings, hosts accommodate walk-in diners at the chic bar and outdoor areas without advance bookings.
Considerate Table Attention
Staff provide personalized menu recommendations and thoughtful table check-ins to tailor courses for dining groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large are the portions?
Portions are generous and filling. Reviewers note that dishes like pasta are substantial enough that one dish can easily satisfy two sharing diners, so consider sharing or pacing your order.
Can you visit as a walk-in without a reservation?
Yes, the venue accepts walk-ins and staff can often seat guests inside at the bar or courtyard, though table times may be capped on busy nights like Fridays. Reservations are accepted and recommended if you prefer a guaranteed table.
How spicy is the spicy rigatoni alla vodka?
The spicy rigatoni vodka has a pronounced chili heat that delivers a noticeable kick. Guests sensitive to spice should note that the heat is genuine rather than subtle.
Are there vegetarian and allergy-friendly options?
Yes, Pepe's accommodates dietary requirements, offering vegetarian dishes such as the paccheri alla nerano and arancini, as well as catering for nut allergies when notified.
What parking is available nearby?
Yes, there is paid street parking along Exhibition Street and surrounding CBD areas. The venue is also within walking distance of major tram lines on Bourke Street.
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