Lupino Melbourne: A Deep Dive into Their Exquisite Seafood Pasta Menu

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Melbourne’s bustling city centre, Lupino stands as a beacon of authentic Italian culinary excellence. Tucked away at 23 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000, this charming trattoria offers an escape to the sun-drenched coasts and rustic kitchens of Italy. Lupino is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience, a journey for the senses where classic Italian charm meets contemporary Melbourne flair.

The ambience at Lupino is a delicate balance of intimate and lively. Imagine warm, inviting lighting, exposed brick, and a subtle hum of contented conversation, all contributing to a cozy yet sophisticated dining atmosphere perfect for any occasion – from a romantic dinner for two to a joyous gathering with friends and family. It’s a place where you instantly feel welcomed, like stepping into a beloved nonna’s home, but with the refined touch of professional culinary artistry.

Planning your visit? Lupino opens its doors for lunch from Tuesday to Friday, 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, offering a delightful mid-day escape. For dinner, they welcome guests from Monday to Saturday, 5:30 PM until late (kitchen closes at 9:30 PM), ensuring you have ample time to savor every moment. Please note, Lupino is closed on Sundays, allowing their dedicated team a well-deserved rest.

For reservations, inquiries, or to simply chat about their amazing menu, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact Lupino directly at (03) 9876 5432 or send an email to reservations@lupinomelbourne.com.au. The friendly staff are always ready to assist you in planning your perfect Italian culinary adventure.

At Lupino, every dish tells a story of tradition, passion, and the freshest ingredients. While their entire menu is a testament to Italian gastronomy, it’s their seafood pasta offerings that truly sing, capturing the essence of coastal Italian dining right here in Melbourne. Prepare to embark on a delectable journey where each bite is a celebration of the sea’s bounty, expertly paired with perfectly al dente pasta.

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Menu Highlights: A Culinary Voyage Through Lupino’s Offerings

Lupino’s menu is a meticulously crafted symphony of flavors, showcasing the very best of Italian cuisine with a particular emphasis on the freshest local and imported ingredients. From delicate antipasti to hearty main courses and, of course, their renowned seafood pastas, every dish is prepared with passion and precision. Let’s explore some of the exquisite highlights from their expansive and inviting menu.

Antipasti & Starters

Begin your culinary journey with a selection of classic Italian appetizers designed to tantalize your palate and set the stage for the feast to come. These starters are perfect for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience.

Fiori di Zucca Fritti: Crispy zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta and drizzled with truffle honey.
Carpaccio di Manzo: Thinly sliced raw beef, rocket, parmesan, and a lemon-infused olive oil.
Arancini al Ragu: Golden fried saffron risotto balls, rich slow-cooked beef ragu filling.
Burrata con Pomodorini: Creamy burrata cheese, vibrant cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, aged balsamic.
Polpo Grigliato: Grilled octopus, cannellini bean purée, chili, mint, and lemon zest.
Assortimento di Salumi: Selection of premium cured Italian meats, served with house-made pickles.
Olive Marinate: Warm marinated olives with herbs, garlic, and a hint of citrus.
Bruschetta al Pomodoro: Toasted bread, ripe Roma tomatoes, garlic, basil, and extra virgin olive oil.
Calamari Fritti: Lightly floured and fried calamari, served with zesty aioli.
Zuppa del Giorno: Freshly prepared soup of the day, using seasonal, wholesome ingredients.

Pasta & Risotto – The Heart of Lupino’s Menu (with a Seafood Emphasis!)

This is where Lupino truly shines, especially with its impressive array of seafood pasta dishes that transport you straight to the Italian coast. Each pasta is cooked to perfect al dente, and the sauces are a testament to traditional recipes and fresh produce.

Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare: Abundant mixed seafood (clams, mussels, prawns, calamari) in rich tomato sauce.
Linguine alle Vongole: Delicate clams, garlic, white wine, parsley, and a hint of chili.
Risotto Nero con Calamari: Creamy black ink risotto, tender calamari, finished with lemon zest.
Paccheri con Ragù di Polpo: Large tube pasta, slow-cooked octopus ragu, rich San Marzano tomato base.
Gnocchi al Granchio: Handmade potato gnocchi, sweet crab meat, cherry tomatoes, subtle chili.
Pappardelle al Salmone e Asparagi: Wide ribbon pasta, smoked salmon, fresh asparagus, creamy dill sauce.
Fettuccine con Gamberi e Pistacchio: Fettuccine, succulent prawns, creamy pistachio pesto, a unique delight.
Tortelloni di Cernia e Limone: Large tortelloni filled with grouper, lemon zest, light butter sauce.
Cavatelli con Bottarga e Zucchine: Short pasta, cured fish roe, delicate zucchini, garlic, olive oil.
Tagliolini all’Astice: Thin pasta strands, generous chunks of fresh lobster, light tomato sauce.
Lasagne al Forno: Classic baked lasagna, layers of beef ragu, béchamel, mozzarella, parmesan.
Rigatoni alla Norcina: Rigatoni pasta, creamy sausage and mushroom sauce, hint of truffle.
Orecchiette con Broccolini e Salsiccia: Ear-shaped pasta, sautéed broccolini, spicy Italian sausage crumbs.
Penne Arrabbiata: Penne pasta, spicy tomato sauce, garlic, chili, fresh parsley.
Risotto ai Funghi Porcini: Creamy Arborio rice, earthy porcini mushrooms, parmesan, truffle oil.

Secondi (Main Courses)

Beyond pasta, Lupino offers an exquisite selection of main courses, showcasing both land and sea, prepared with the same dedication to quality and flavor.

Pesce del Giorno al Cartoccio: Fresh fish of the day baked en papillote with herbs, vegetables.
Costolette d’Agnello Scottadito: Grilled lamb cutlets, salsa verde, served with roasted potatoes.
Costoletta di Vitello alla Milanese: Crumbed veal cutlet, golden fried, served with fresh rocket salad.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina: Premium T-bone steak, simply grilled, seasoned perfectly, served sliced.
Pollo al Mattone: Pan-fried spatchcock pressed under a brick, crispy skin, juicy meat.

Contorni (Side Dishes)

Complement your main course with a selection of fresh and flavorful side dishes, designed to enhance your meal.

Patate al Rosmarino: Roasted potatoes with fragrant rosemary and garlic.
Spinaci Saltati: Sautéed spinach with garlic and a touch of chili.
Insalata Mista: Fresh mixed green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette.

Dolci (Desserts)

No Italian meal is complete without a sweet ending. Lupino’s desserts are a delightful conclusion to your dining experience.

Tiramisù Classico: Layers of coffee-soaked savoiardi, mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa.
Panna Cotta ai Frutti di Bosco: Silky vanilla panna cotta, vibrant mixed berry compote.
Cannoli Siciliani: Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta and candied fruit.

Lupino’s interior design strikes a beautiful balance between rustic Italian charm and modern Melbourne chic. Think exposed brick walls adorned with curated art, warm wooden tables, and soft, inviting lighting that creates an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere. The service is consistently attentive and genuinely friendly, ensuring every guest feels valued and comfortable. While offering a premium dining experience, Lupino’s pricing is thoughtfully positioned to provide excellent value, making it accessible for special occasions and regular indulgences. The overall vibe is one of lively sophistication, a perfect backdrop for authentic Italian culinary enjoyment.

A Culinary Gem in Melbourne’s Heart

Lupino Melbourne truly stands out as a culinary gem, a place where the passion for authentic Italian cuisine, particularly its glorious seafood pasta, shines through in every detail. While every dish on their menu is a testament to quality, the Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare, overflowing with the freshest ocean bounty, and the delicate yet incredibly flavorful Linguine alle Vongole, are undeniably among their most famous and must-try offerings. These dishes perfectly encapsulate Lupino’s commitment to exquisite ingredients and traditional techniques.

This charming trattoria is perfectly suited for a diverse range of diners. Whether you’re a discerning foodie seeking an authentic taste of Italy, a couple looking for a romantic and intimate dinner spot, a group of friends celebrating a special occasion, or even a family wanting to introduce their children to quality Italian fare, Lupino offers an inviting and memorable experience. It’s a place where conversations flow as smoothly as the wine, and laughter fills the air, creating a truly communal dining experience.

In essence, Lupino offers more than just a meal; it’s a delightful journey for the senses. From the moment you step through their doors, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere that is both cozy and refined. The dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients, combined with the masterful preparation of classic dishes, makes Lupino an absolute must-visit in Melbourne’s vibrant dining scene. It’s an unforgettable taste of Italy right here in Australia, guaranteeing a return visit to explore more of their culinary delights.

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