Mama's Trattoria

Nestled in the heart of Civic, Mama's Trattoria is a cherished destination for authentic Italian cuisine in Canberra. Housed within the historic Melbourne Building, our restaurant captures the warmth and charm of a traditional family-run trattoria. From the moment you arrive, the aroma of simmering sauces and fresh herbs invites you in, while the sun-drenched alfresco seating on the pedestrian concourse offers a slice of European lifestyle right in the city. Whether you are joining us for a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, or a quick yet satisfying meal, we bring a genuine taste of Italy to Canberra.

Our philosophy is simple: food should be prepared just as Mama would make it—with heart, soul, and the freshest ingredients. We believe that a great meal is not just about sustenance but about connection and comfort. Every dish on our menu reflects a deep respect for Italian culinary traditions, using time-honored techniques and recipes passed down through generations. From our hand-stretched dough to our slow-simmered ragù, we treat each plate as an opportunity to create a memorable dining experience for our guests.

Our Culinary Roots & Philosophy

The soul of Mama's Trattoria lies in the belief that the simplest dishes, when made with care, become the most extraordinary. We source locally where possible, complementing imported Italian ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and Parmigiano-Reggiano with fresh Australian produce. This fusion ensures that while our flavors are unmistakably Italian, the ingredients are always vibrant and seasonal. Our chefs, trained in classical Italian cooking, approach every recipe with an artisan's touch, balancing rustic heartiness with refined taste.

What We Offer

Our menu is a celebration of Italy's diverse regional cuisines, featuring everything from light meals and vibrant salads to indulgent mains and decadent desserts. We invite you to explore the breadth of our offerings—each designed to be shared with family and friends over a glass of wine.

Antipasti & Light Meals

Start your journey with our carefully curated starters. The Bruschetta al Pomodoro combines ripe diced tomato, fragrant basil, and red onion on toasted Italian bread, while the Bruschetta al Funghi delights with marinated mushrooms and creamy bocconcini. Our customizable Focaccia lets you choose from an array of authentic fillings, served with a crisp side salad—perfect for a light, satisfying lunch.

Handcrafted Pasta & Mains

Pasta is the heart of our kitchen, and our reputation is built on staples like our rich Lasagna and silky Carbonara. Whether you crave the long ribbons of Tagliatelle or our perfectly al dente Spaghetti, each pasta is cooked to order and paired with sauces made from scratch daily. Our main courses extend beyond pasta to include hearty dishes that warm the belly and soul, ensuring there is something for every appetite.

Irresistible Desserts

No Italian meal is complete without a sweet ending. Our Tiramisu is a local favorite, but the crown jewel of our dessert menu is the Amaretti Pannacotta with spiced pears. Its delicate texture and perfectly balanced flavors have earned it a dedicated following, with guests often coming back solely for this unforgettable treat.

Dining at the Melbourne Building

Our location in the iconic Melbourne Building places you at the crossroads of history and modern Canberra life. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and rustic, with simple wooden tables and chairs that evoke a countryside osteria. The large windows flood the space with natural light, while the hum of happy diners creates an energetic yet cozy ambiance. Outside, our alfresco area is a prime spot for people-watching. As the tables spill onto the pedestrian concourse, you can enjoy a long lunch under the Canberra sun or an evening meal as the city lights begin to twinkle. This unique blend of historic architecture and lively street-side dining makes every visit special.

Serving Canberra & Beyond

For years, Canberra locals and visitors alike have made Mama's Trattoria their go-to spot for genuine Italian food. We are proud to serve a diverse community, including the bustling weekday business crowd, weekend families, and late-night diners looking for a welcoming spot after exploring the city. Our central location means we are a favorite for pre-theater dinners, post-work gatherings, and casual catch-ups with friends. The consistent quality of our food and the friendliness of our service have built a loyal following, with many guests returning week after week, treating our trattoria as their own home away from home.

Service & Selection

We understand that modern diners appreciate flexibility. That's why we offer multiple ways to enjoy our cuisine. Dine in to soak up the authentic atmosphere, order takeaway for a gourmet meal at home, or use our convenient delivery service to bring the taste of Mama's Trattoria straight to your doorstep. For those who love to plan ahead, our online reservation system makes booking a table effortless, and our online ordering platform streamlines the takeaway process.

• Dine-in: Immerse yourself in the rustic charm and attentive tableside service.
• Takeaway & Delivery: Enjoy restaurant-quality meals wherever you are, packaged to preserve freshness.
• Online Ordering & Reservations: Plan your meal with just a few clicks via our official website.
• Alfresco Dining: Make the most of Canberra's sunshine on our beautiful outdoor terrace.

Why Guests Choose Mama's Trattoria

Our guests often tell us they return because of the unwavering consistency in both food and hospitality. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance—upscale enough for a special occasion, yet relaxed enough for a casual midweek dinner. Our menu caters to a wide array of tastes, from light salads like the Insalata Pollo with grilled chicken and avocado to the indulgent Caesar Salad with crispy bacon and shaved Parmesan. We are also known for accommodating special requests, ensuring that every diner leaves satisfied. Above all, it is the authentic, unpretentious Italian experience—complete with generous portions and warm smiles—that truly sets us apart and keeps our dining room packed every weekend.

Hours, Location & Directions

We are conveniently located at Shop 4, 45 West Row, inside the Melbourne Building in Canberra's city center. Finding us is easy whether you are arriving on foot, by public transport, or by car, with plenty of nearby parking and cycling routes. Below are our current trading hours, though we always recommend checking our website or calling ahead for public holiday timings.

• Monday to Friday Lunch: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
• Monday to Wednesday Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Thursday to Saturday Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
• Sunday: Closed