Mama's Trattoria

Set in the Melbourne Building on West Row, Mama’s Trattoria brings a traditional Italian restaurant feel to Civic, Canberra. The venue has alfresco tables extending onto the pedestrian concourse, where diners can eat in the Canberra sunshine, while the interior is described as warm and rustic, with straightforward wooden tables and chairs. It is a setting suited to a relaxed lunch, an evening meal or an easy catch-up over familiar Italian cooking.

The menu covers a broad range of Italian staples, with plenty of pasta at its centre. Lasagna is made with fresh egg pasta layered with Bolognese sauce, béchamel and mozzarella, while the spaghetti Bolognese follows a traditional tomato, minced meat and basil combination. Other pasta choices include spinach-and-ricotta cannelloni, spicy penne Arrabiata, seafood Frutti Di Mare and homemade potato gnocchi served with tomato and mozzarella. There are also risotto, seafood, chicken and beef dishes for diners looking beyond pasta.

For a lighter start, the menu includes bruschetta with tomato, basil and red onion, or a mushroom and bocconcini version. The antipasto combines Italian cold cuts, marinated vegetables, cheese and olives, and the minestrone is served with crusty Italian bread. Salads include Caesar, garden and Mediterranean styles, while sautéed seasonal vegetables provide a simple side option. These choices give groups room to order differently, whether they are after a full pasta meal, something lighter or a few dishes to share.

The website presents Mama’s Trattoria as a place for hearty, comforting food and unhurried dining rather than a highly formal experience. Its range of familiar dishes, indoor and outdoor seating, and lunch and dinner service make it a practical option for casual group meals, relaxed dates and diners looking for traditional Italian flavours in central Canberra. The venue also offers online reservations and ordering, with the restaurant located at Unit 45, Melbourne Building.