The Meat & Wine Co.

 
Doesn't hearing "Meat" and "Wine" in the same sentence make your mouth water? What about having it in the restaurant name? I can tell you right now that my mouth is watering just typing this. The Meat & Wine Co. in Southbank provides quality cuts, quality wine and an added bonus of quality service with many smiles all round.

 

Although I always see fresh faces, the staff here are always happy and cater to any queries you may have without hesitation.. there is always something that I don't understand on the menu no matter how many times I visit, I just forget!

As an appetiser we decided on herb bread, garlic bread and Bruschetta to stop the rumbling in my gut. The last thing I like is being too hungry when the mains arrive... you never remember what it takes like and I just hoe it down like a caveman. The bread was very fresh with great garlicky aroma.

Garlic Bread / Herb Bread

As you can see below, the Bruschetta has a very thick layer of pesto that gives it a really fresh kick. Beautiful!

Bruschetta
 

If you are into ribs, you must order the full rack of pork ribs and use your fingers for a better experience. The waiters provide you with a bib and side water bowl for finger washing. Get into it! I recommend to share this if you are not a big eater as it up to one kilo of barbecuey goodness. Side of chips are crispy and thick and compliments the barbecue flavour.

Full Rack of Pork Ribs

If you are the only in your group of friends that wants to dig into ribs, there is a 600 gram option for all beef, pork and lamb options. I tend to choose beef as it always seems to be the meatier option.

Half Rack of Beef Ribs

My Favourite and staple order is always the 'simple' rib-eye with peppercorn sauce. The proper rib-eye, not the American fake version! I got caught out with that one in Vegas, it was not pretty and tasted like spam. Sometimes when I am adventurous I like to upgrade to the Wagyu (Grain Fed 500 days, Marbled score 6+) or Monte Dry-Aged (Aged at a controlled temperature) versions.

The Wagyu is very tender and consistent with evenly layered fat in the cut. Wherever The Meat & Wine Co get their meat, it is definitely a quality source.

Rib-Eye 350g (Grain-fed 120 days) with peppercorn sauce

At the end of the meal there are no peppercorns left at the bottom of the sauce tray as it is the most addictive taste that blends so well with the hint of marinade used with the meat. The 350 gram cut is plenty for a hearty meal especially when complimented with a few beers or wine. The separately ordered side salad was very fresh with no withered or browning leaves which I seem to get at other steakhouses. Maybe the other steakhouses don't expect you to eat it! Great way to balance the meat-heavy meal.

Garden Salad (side)

For a more traditional side, there is also the option of roasted veg. They are all fresh vegetables that are boiled for just the right amount of time.

Roast Veg (side)

If you are a wine drinker, the menu displays recommended wines for each type of course type. There is also a kids menu for those who are interested.

The Meat & Wine Co is an internationally recognised franchise that provides quality service and MEAT. If you are vegetarian the options are unfortunately limited but remember you are going to the MEAT & Wine Co. Be sure to book as this place is very busy for dinner all days of the week and for lunches at the weekend.

The views of Southbank are spectacular and the restaurant sits close to the city and Crown casino so you can round of your night in those locations. The prices are reasonable compared to the quality you receive and the cleanliness is world-class. I would even visit this restaurant just for the atmosphere because it just has that great feeling.

Great for a casual get-together or an intimate date ;) If you like meat, you'll love this place.

The Meat & Wine Co.

3 Freshwater Place, QueensbridgeSquare, Southbank
03 9696 5333

Hours:
Mon-Thurs
1200-1500
1800-2200

Fri-Sat
1200-Late

Sunday
1200-2200