weddings at pepe'S ITALIAN AND LIQUOR


If your brief is “great food, great wine, moody lighting in a central location,” a Pepe’s Italian & Liquor wedding nails it. Housed in Melbourne’s first synagogue with cathedral ceilings, deep burgundy tones and checkerboard floors, Pepe’s gives you that Italian-luxe atmosphere right in the heart of Melbourne's CBD — perfect for a heartfelt dinner party that turns into a dance floor.


Two huge things stand out to me about Pepe's; the food, and the staff. Being a restaurant primarily means that the food is going to be elite (think large share plates of pasta and chicken, delicious pizzas and side salads), and the staff also go out of their way to make your entire experience as incredible, and stress-free, as possible.


Two ways to do it here


1) Pepe’s Italian & Liquor (Dining Room & Bar)

The hero space for a classic reception: soaring ceilings, banquette seating, chandeliers and an in-house kitchen/bar team who know how to run a service on time. It’s purpose-built for long tables, speeches, and a lively first dance. Pete and James (my first ever Pepe's wedding) chose this option, as they had ~120 guests, and wanted ample space for a dance floor and Lebanese drums. Typical guide: ~100 seated / 200 cocktail.


2) Pepe’s Parlour

A separate indoor–outdoor room with a retractable roof, its own bar and dedicated kitchen — great for ceremonies and more intimate receptions. Natural light for the first half, candlelit for the second half: all beautiful. Christie and Blair chose this option, as they had a more family-focused wedding, with around 65 guests.


You can see photos of each below...

Can you hold the ceremony on site?


Yes! Pete and James chose to hold their ceremony in the main courtyard, but you can also use Pepe's Parlour for your ceremony, then step out for cocktails while the staff turn the room over for your reception space. Both great options!


Travelling & logistics (at a glance)

  • Where: 275–285 Exhibition St, Melbourne (Melbourne CBD)
  • Why it works: central location, full kitchen/bar, cinematic interiors, and staff who run tight service windows—so your run-sheet stays calm. 


FAQs (Pepe’s Italian & Liquor)

  • How many guests can we host?

Guides list ~100 seated / ~200 cocktail for the main room; The Parlour is ideal for ceremonies, cocktails or smaller receptions. Confirm your layout with the events team.

  • What about AV and wet-weather?

Indoors, climate-controlled; The Parlour’s retractable roof gives you light without the weather stress. Add a handheld mic and you’re set for speeches.

  • What makes a Pepe’s Italian & Liquor wedding different?

Location, food and hospitality. You get a dramatic, ready-styled room, central CBD access, and a kitchen/bar team dialled for events—your film and gallery look “finished” before you add anything.