The ultimate place to enjoy authentic Italian food in Ballarat is the La Porchetta Ballarat on Sturt Street. The restaurant offers classic Italian tastes set in a cosy environment in the historic Southern Cross Hotel building close to Ballarat Base Hospital.
La Porchetta has been serving Italian favourites since 1985, making it a favourite of families, friends and visitors alike. On your first visit, you may be unsure what to order from the menu, so this list highlights some of the menu’s standout items that you may want to try. If you are wondering where to eat in ballarat, this Italian restaurant in Ballarat offers a menu filled with classic favourites for every taste.
Start with Nonna’s Meatballs
La Porchetta Ballarat’s signature recipe features Nonna’s Meatballs, cooked slowly with a rich Napoli sauce, from a traditional family recipe. Available on the share plate or a hearty pasta dish, it’s an ideal introduction to the classic Italian dishes prepared by the restaurant. It is one of the dishes you won’t want to miss if you’re visiting La Porchetta Ballarat for the first time.
The Original Porchetta Pizza – Where the Name Comes From
The Original Porchetta Pizza is a “must-try” for pizza lovers. Celebrating the heritage of the brand La Porchetta, the pizza is topped with tomato, mozzarella, Italian pork sausage, fresh basil, and olive oil.
It’s part of the restaurant’s popular Classics menu alongside favourites such as, Super Special and Marinara, and is a great option for those new to the restaurant who are looking for something they’ll enjoy.
Try Something from the Signature Range
Whether you’re looking for the classics or something different, explore La Porchetta Ballarat’s signature pizzas. Choose from items like the Paesano, which contains salami, pork sausage, bacon, mushrooms, roast capsicum and hot chilli sauce, the Calabrese stuffed with salami, provolone and olives or the Gamberi, featuring tiger prawns and basil pesto mayo; these are standout dishes on the Italian menu that you might never find in other restaurants. If you’re looking for something special or want to try something new, these pizzas would be perfect for you.
Salt & Pepper Calamari and Arancini for the Table
Forget the regular starters and start your meal with two customer favourites. The Salt & Pepper Calamari (served with fresh lemon and tartare sauce) will prove a light yet satisfying seafood choice, while the homemade Arancini, stuffed with seasoned rice and topped with a rich Bolognese sauce, will provide that authentic Italian comfort. These two dishes will both work well as appetizers in anticipation of a big feast!
Seafood Plate for One or Veal Parmigiana for a Bigger Appetite
If you’re after a more substantial meal, the Seafood Plate for One is an excellent choice, featuring salt and pepper squid, grilled fish and prawns for a satisfying seafood feast.
Those who want something substantial to eat will love the Veal Parmigiana with a delicious Napoli sauce and melted cheese topping. They are both substantial servings, ideal for those with a larger appetite.
The Vegan Menu has its own signature dishes
La Porchetta Ballarat also offers a dedicated vegan menu, as opposed to just changing diet-friendly ingredients on the current menu.
Popular pizza choices include the Spicy Pesto Chick’n Pizza and the Penne Creamy Pesto Chick’n made with vegan chick’n soy protein to achieve great flavours and textures. Crafted with care, these delicious dishes allow even those with a plant-based diet to savor a complete Italian dining experience.
Bringing the Kids?
The value-packed Kids Menu, with a main meal, side, drink and dessert sold as one item for a great price, will be appreciated by families.
Popular choices include Kids Pizza, and for the rest of your family, you can try the Spaghetti Bolognese. La Porchetta Ballarat has something to offer for visitors of all ages with its family-friendly vibe.
Why Do Locals Keep Coming Back?
Locals continue returning to la porchetta Ballarat for its generous meals due to the generous portions, the warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere.
Inside the historic Southern Cross Hotel building dating back to Ballarat’s gold rush era, the restaurant offers a unique setting that adds character to every visit. In addition to everyday meals it also offers catering and function facilities as well, suitable for birthdays, celebrations, and larger gatherings. For anyone searching for where to eat in Ballarat, La Porchetta continues to stand out as a trusted italian restaurant in ballarat for casual dining, family meals and special occasions.
Closing
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another meal, there is something for everyone at La Porchetta Ballarat. Explore the full menu online or book a table and enjoy some of the delicious cuisine in a cosy atmosphere.
