Looking for something other than French & Italian, we opted for something the boys would enjoy. Meat, meat and more meat! We’ve heard great things about Meatmaiden, so thought we would give it a go and see if it lived up to the all the hype. Being the sister restaurant to the Meatmother, focusing more on the BBQ side of things. The two together, bring a full range of different styles of meat to the table.
ATMOSPHERE & SERVICE
Located in the basement on Lt Collins Street, this gem is exactly what you’d except from a true meat lovers heaven. A dimly lit space, a feature wall showcasing meats being cured, focusing on a more industrial vibe. High top wooden tables, private booths and ample seating fill the surprisingly large space.
The service was spot on throughout the evening. From the water and wine glasses always full, to an explanation of the menu, there was always someone around to ensure we were well looked after.
FOOD
The style of food is all in the name of the restaurant. Specialising in well prepared meats, this is your go to place for a fantastic meal. With a table of 8, we were lucky enough to order quite a few dishes to share between us all. Everything from 40 days ages meats, to 20 hour slow cooked briskets make the extensive menu.
Everyone pretty much picked an entree for us to try, which was a great way to start the night. The first to arrive was the ‘Charred Jalapeños’ with jack cheddar & hazelnut. These definitely had a kick to them and the charred added an extra level of flavouring to finish.
My choice was the ‘Beef Tartare’ with smoked oyster mayo & gin pickles. I loved the pickled aspect to the dish and the crisps served were also seasoned perfectly to accompany the beef. Definitely one of the better tartares I’ve had in a while.
The ‘Burnt Ends’ served with tobacco onions & horseradish were to follow. I wasn’t sure on this one, however they were amazing! Served with a sticky BBQ sauce, these reminded me of Chicken wings (minus the bone).
With the meat overload currently happening, I opted for something ‘non meaty’ and ordered the ‘Smoked Local Mushrooms’ with creamed cauliflower for my main. I wasn’t sure what to expect here, however was very surprised on how tasty the dish was. The rocket on top created a bitter finish to the sweet cauliflower base.
MC went with the ‘O’Connor Pasture-Fed Sirloin’ on the bone, 40 day dry-aged in house. A 500gm mammoth sized steak was presented with a side of jus. The steak was cooked to absolute perfection and was melt in your mouth amazing.
Sides consisted of ‘Charred Broccoli’ with raisins & almonds, ‘Fries’ with aioli and the ‘House Slaw’ with champagne vinegar & celery seeds. All were perfect accompaniments for the mains we had ordered.
If our bellies weren’t full enough already, we found room for dessert. MC ordered the ‘Dark Chocolate Mousse’, dried raspberries, scorched meringue for us to share. Thank goodness we decided to share as it was so rich and huge, I don’t know how one person would be able to finish it on their own.
Overall, another great Melbourne find for us. The food was a 10, the service to match and we had some great company to make it a perfect night. Would highly recommend!