Meatmother

As a self confessed meatatarian, this place is heaven. Everything comes slow cooked, flavored and basted to within an inch of its life.
The sides are nice, but they are a sideshow only.
I would say, if you want a real meat experience, don’t waste your time and money on somthing super fancy… go here.

My previous experience of Meatmother has been really hit and miss– when I first discovered this place early 2014 I was blown about by the amazing menu, atmosphere and the quality of food.
As they increased in popularity I continued to go, but found at times my brisket would be dry, or ribs were underwhelming.
Upon my brief return to Melbourne this week, Meatmother was on my must eat list. So we rallied up a few pals and went. And I was NOT disappointed.
The wagyu brisket was the best I’d ever had. It was juicy, fatty, flavourful and filling. The sides (mac and cheese and Texas toast) were totally on point. I love the bit of pickle they also serve with your meal which is nice to nibble on.
Burnt ends as a starter is also a must. If you’re going for lunch I recommend the burnt ends sandwich– I still daydream about this as it was one of the best lunches I’ve had in a long time.
Service is great, their raspberry gin fizz is delicious, and the atmosphere is quite funky. They also do not take reservations for groups under 8 people but there is a waiting area downstairs where you can have a drink whilst waiting for a table which passes the time.
A must go!

Good idea but really not that great of a BBQ place. For the price, expectations are higher and its a small venue so you probably have to wait for a table. The fries are good, the meat lets it down unfortunately.

one of my favourite places in Melbourne!
Good price range as all mains come with a side. The burnt ends are amazing and the sprouts and lardons are to die for.
Pulled Pork is a favourite, and the table BBQ sauce is perfect for almost all the meat dishes on offer. The beef jerky is spiced with cumin, gives it a more ethnic kick than the sweeter american flavour I’m used to.
Great atmosphere and décor, but it fills up quick. Website says they only take bookings for groups of 8+ but definitely recommend calling ahead to book on Thursday and Friday nights.
Staff are friendly and the service can’t be faulted. love MeatMother!

Meat Mother is a great place for a group of friends to get together and spend the night catching up. The set menu has so much selection that only non-​meat eaters will go hungry. As one friend said «even the beans have meat in them!»
My favourite was the short ribs, there was no issue getting that off the bone. Followed closly by the brisket. All full of that fantastic smoky flavour.
Tip — unless you are allergic to pickles, you must try the Bourbon and Pickle shot. Don’t knock it until you try it said the menu, and the combination of flavours is really interesting!

There comes a certain time in every meat lovers life when all you want is MEEEEEAAAAT! And when it comes to that time, look no further than Meatmother because these guys know their stuff.
After watching episodes of House Of Cards and seeing Frank chow down on countless racks of delicious ribs I could stand it no more. Friday night was going to be rib night.
So Friday came and off to Meatmother we went. No sooner had we sat down my choice was made; Meat Tray which included rack of Short Ribs, Slaw, Texas Toast and a side of BBQ beans all for the price of $ 26.
Portion sizes were adequate to say the least. I loved the Ribs, Slaw and Beans; and the Texas Toast although being a bit like fried bread on steroids wasn’t too bad either.
There’s many other things to chose from including Steak, Fried Chicken, Pulled Pork, Brisket and Sausage to name but a few. I will definitely be coming back to try them for sure.
If you are a meat lover you have to give this place a try, it’s sure to have you hankering for more.

I know I’m slightly late to the party but I am obsessed with House of Cards. Cant. Get. Enough. I just finished Season Two so will be in a land of despair for the next few months.
It is this obsession that got me craving ribs like never before. If they’re good enough for Frank, then they’re good enough for me.
Headed to Meatmother for my fix and walked out feeling satisfied and thinking I could take on anything the White House had to throw at me. Oh no, wait –I’m mixing up reality and TV. Again.
Ribs were meaty and the sauce on them was delicious and not too overpowering. I enjoyed the side of mac n cheese more as it cooled down and the cheese started to firm up a little. The boy picked the beans for sides but I found them too Smokey in addition to the sauce on the ribs.
One meat platter was enough for me but I suspect the men in the world could squeeze in another side of meat if they were having trouble picking between the different varieties.
The ribs probably don’t live up to the legendary Freddy’s so I will head back there next time. Oh wait — there I go mixing up reality and TV again…

Bring out the ‘dress’ trackie-​dacks, as you’ll need ample pant-​space after a visit to the Mother of Meat.
Can only speak for the banquet, as that’s all we’ve ever got and aint no going back from there: As it says on the box, there’s meat, meat and more meat.
Don’t be a fool and fill up on the Texas toast or Mac’n’cheese sides as you’ll want to ensure you’ve got the space to eat as much smokey goodness as possible.
The highlight has to be all the ribs (just thinking about them now has me drooling on my keyboard). Having spent some time travelling through the deep south of the USA eating ribs every night for weeks, I can say that the ribs here can hold their own up to some of the best I’ve ever had abroad.
Only down side is that afterwards you may experience a) the inability to walk properly whilst nursing your new meat-​baby, and b) between the smokiness clinging to your clothes and the almost-​inevitable meat-​sweats that will kick-​in mid-​meal, you might have to burn your outfit when you get home. Worth it though.
Always had great service too. Last time we got there early and had a beer at the downstairs bar and were given some free ‘candy bacon’, which is exactly what it sounds like. Didn’t really compliment the beer, but was still cool to try. (Nice selection of beers, although good luck fitting more than one in with your meal.)
Have heard they have some nice desserts too, but my pants had already waved the white flag by that point so can’t say I’ve tried myself.
Definitely more ‘meaty’ than it’s new city-​sister Meatmaiden, it’s nice to see that while some staples exist on both menus there is enough difference to give each their own identity and vibe. If you try one, recommend still doing the other. (After you fit back into your pants, obviously)

We wanted a quick meal before a night out and meat mother was en route. We grabbed a seat at the downstairs bar which is cute and cosy and perused the menu.
The menu is quick and simple, pick your meat, add a side for $ 5. Meat options include pulled pork, brisket, ribs. I had my heart set on the brisket but alas it was sold out so we both opted for the beef short ribs.
Sides comprise a variety of heavy American classics like mash and gravey, Mac and cheese, Brussels sprouts with lardons but there are some lighter options if you’re not in the mood for indulgence; chipotle slaw and cauliflower with parmasen and almonds. (had the cauliflower and it was delicious).
Service was fast, efficient and friendly. Our meat came out very quickly. The beef short ribs were succulent and tender. They had a buttery consistency and fell right off the bone. We both devoured our dishes without barely looking up.
I’ll be back for sure and brisket … I’m coming for you.

This is a great little place.
It is sparsely decorated with most food being served on enamel plates with cutlery being available in a container at the centre of the table. This minimalistic approach extends to all the aspects of the decore except for art which is a series of drawings combining meat and flowers… interesting.
The food is simple and very very good, it is predominately various kinds of slow cooked meat (pork ribs are wonderful) with a side (mac and chees great, slaw less so).
If you’re thirsty they have a very good array of beers.
My only real complaint is that it is a little cramped and noisy for my liking but I expect that for the hipsters who dominate their clientel that’s probably a plus.
Definitely give it a go.

This is an Up market restaurant serving gas cooked bbq and there are so many better alternative available.
The best part are the cocktails there is a reasonable selection of BBQ related cocktails that go well with the food.
The sides are just not up to scratch.
Having been dragged there several times over the last twelve months, I would have to say there are better locations for BBQ.

Forget the never ending packet of Tim Tams, I would prefer a never ending supply of beef short ribs from Meatmother.
If the thought of melt in your mouth chock full of smokey flavoured meat is your idea of heaven, then go on an get yourself to the Nirvana of American style slow cooked meat.
I went on the recommendation of the waiter and had the beef short ribs, pan fried sprouts with bacon and just because I am a glutton through and through, tossed in a side of pulled pork croquettes.
All of the dishes were simply amazing and food-​gasmic but as soon as I tasted the ribs, the superlatives escaped me. Buttery, rich, falling off the bone beef mmmmmmm… beefy…
Even now I am struggling to find the right words.
Just go. Now. With all your friends. You won’t regret it.

Great Smokey BBQ taste! Love the food here! Absolutely amazing! Would come back every night for dinner, so filling and good for what you pay for!

If the way to a man’s heart is truly via his stomach, then Meatmother is giving me some serious competition for the ring on my finger. I wish I had snapped a photo of my partner’s grin as he held two door-​stopper slabs of Texas toast in his hands, which he had stuffed full of any remaining pork spare ribs, BBQ sauce, beans and chipotle slaw. It is how I assume a 5 year old child reacts when you tell them they’re going to Disneyland.
Yep, it would appear that Meatmother is offering paradise for meat-​eating men.
We ordered two meat trays — one choice of meat and a side. I enquired as to whether two was overkill and was assured it was «not an obscene amount of food, but you won’t go hungry». Had I come here with a girlfriend, I would have said one meat tray and some starters/​sides would have been plenty. But I didn’t, so there was nothing left on the plates at the end of the meal.
The beef brisket was my fav. It was so melty that I had difficulties picking it up with a fork to put on my plate! It kept sliding off or falling apart!
The pork spare ribs were not fall-​off-​the-​bone, but it offered a bit more of a sticky, tasty chew to them. A touch too smoky for my personal tastes, but delicious none the less.
The sides were excellent. I could have happily eaten a slab of toast with beans and remain satisfied. The chipotle slaw was a nice accompaniment too — wouldn’t eat it on it’s own but tasted great with the meat. So much meat.
If you’re in the mood for BBQ, this place is nailing it.

Get some meat in ya & while your at it a bacon cocktail! I have had a few people tell me they find meatmother overpriced, I disagree you pick your meat & two sides for $ 19 — $ 20. Cocktails range foe $ 13 — $ 20 & they are unique & different. Service is amazing, food comes out reasonably fast regardless of how busy & it is just an over all good casual experience.

These guys really know their meat! An impressive and satisfying meal.
I wasn’t super keen on the ‘Texas Toast’ but the beef rib, slaw, pickles were pretty darn great. Oh and I nearly forgot to mention the ‘pork croquettes’, which are crumbed and fried balls of pulled pork. Yep — you read correctly. And they come swimming in a super smoky, roasted tomato/​bbq sauce. I want a bottle to take home.
Even more impressive was the knowledge behind the bar. These guys smoke their own bourbon to order — it’s pretty cool to watch!

Another Great American Smoked BBQ styled restaurant.
Service was very quick and the Cocktail Jugs were yummy.
A word of warning though, they give you the option of adding extra meat to your meal, it might seem enticing however the meals are large in size so be prepared for the meat sweats and food coma that will visit you the moment you get home.

This was an amazing place to eat if you are a carnivore who loves simple delicious meat. The pulled pork was fantastic but unfortunately the pork ribs were dry, now when we were told they are meant to be like that our table became very disheartened as we had recently eaten smoked pork ribs in 2 other different venues and they were deciduous. The amazing staff exchanged the pork for the beef ribs which was very hospitable and generous … And they saved the night I have never eaten more mouth watering and succulent beef ribs in my life they were simply put a «meatgasim».
I could only give 4 stars after the pork and «that it is mean to be like that» but if the pork becomes as amazing at the beef one day this place would get 6 out of 5 stars!

This is the tale of a band of hungry young friends who set out for a feast of meaty proportions. As they gathered outside their chosen destination for the evening, it didn’t look like much but as they stepped through the doors the smell of smoked meats and barbecued treats wafted towards them and beckoned them inside further. Their table was not ready for them to dine at yet, so they huddled in the doorway, beers in hand, while the waited for the stragglers from the party before them to leave.
Once their table was ready they headed upstairs, informing their waiter that unfortunately their party would not be as large as originally intended. They were told that their meal had been catered for their intended numbers and would have extra food they would still require payment for. «Fear not!» they exclaimed «for we are hungry and your delicacies smell most appealing. They will not go to waste!»
With a party the size of theirs, the only way to dine was with a feast fit for a king, so feast they did! As trays the size of a small trough to eat from were passed around the feast begun. Hock croquettes came out first and it was remarked that they were «like a tiny, delicious deep fried burrito». These were followed with many spicy chicken wings, accompanied by pickled vegetables to perfectly cut through the spice. With a mighty fine selection of beers in hand they awaited the remainder of the meal. One of the party plucked up the courage to order a Bacon Sour, with bacon-​infused bourbon and a candied bacon garnish. It was good!
The feast soon continued and the waitress lovingly slid great bowl after bowl and tray after tray across the table. Pulled pork, beef brisket, spare ribs and short ribs were passed around the party, who were soon licking their fingers in glee. The sides were piled high, but they too, were soon gone. Mash & gravy, Mac & cheese. Chipotle Slaw, BBQ beans. Even the sprouts! The Texas toast, thick enough to use as an industrial sized sponge was called upon to clean to plates of the juices and sauces. The feast was good, the party was happy. Even the vegetarian, who feared she would be eating nothing but Mac n cheese, could not fit another thing in after being served her own trays of treats.
Somehow, room was found for dessert by some of the party. A toffee pudding was shared by some, while a lime pie that was essentially just ice cream was deemed the perfect zesty finish to cut through the meat that coated their tongues and filled their bellies.
Finally they sat back and loosened their belts. The feast was over and they were already planning when they would return again, for it was oh so good.

There’s a lot to like about Meatmother. The fact that they specialise in BBQ, beer & bourbon for starters…
With a simple yet effective fit out in the ever improving South Richmond area, I’d lay bets that Meatmother will be a hot spot in no time. The menu is delightfully simple with two main offerings — the first, the ‘Meat Tray’ is your choice of meat (pulled pork, beef brisket, beef short rib, spare ribs) & one side (BBQ beans, chipotle slaw, mac cheese, gravy mash, grilled cos salad, sprouts with lardons) served with Texas toast & pickles; the second, the ‘Bun Tray’ is a brioche bun filled with pulled pork OR brisket and slaw, and comes with one side & pickles. That’s it. Simple.
There’s a few extras on offer too (house pickles, BBQ chicken wings, hock croquettes) but to be honest, the trays (which are served on an enamel trays) are great value & a great selection of tempting options. Simple yet effective!
There’s a good selection of craft beers from the US including much loved Sierra Nevada, wine offerings, a handful of interesting cocktails and a solid selection of bourbon, rye & whiskey.
Would I return? Yup, if only for the beef brisket & BBQ beans! Keen to sample some more of their offerings, washed down with a tumbler of Buffalo Trace.
It’s a yes from me!