Taking the ‘slow’ out of slow food, Pasta Poetry has opened its doors in Melbourne this week – serving up a selection of ready-to-boil, expertly executed, carb-laden comfort food to the people of Fairfield and beyond. 

Sure, dining out regularly is a practice we whole-heartedly endorse – but there are few experiences quite as soul-enriching and energy-reviving as balancing a warm bowl of freshly made pasta on your lap, a glass of red in reach and a feel-good film ready to play of a Friday evening. And yet, making your own pasta – though a source of wholesome, gourmet fun – requires a little extra time and preparation (the kind best reserved for leisurely Sundays). 

Now, a Melbourne-based purveyor of fresh pasta is set to bring the satisfaction of homemade pasta to sofas – and dinner-party tables – sooner. Inspired by the cuisine and laneway stores of Bologna, Pasta Poetry’s offerings are designed to be ready to serve in a matter of minutes. And though the pasta is helping make things faster for customers, behind the scenes good things take time: hand-cut and hand-folded tortellini dough is rolled up to 70 times before it’s declared ready.

Inside the boutique, customers can pick up tagliatelle, ravioli, gnocchi, lasagne, freshly baked potato focaccia, wines to pair with your pasta, sauces, cheeses and herb butters to complete each dish, and the likes of tiramisu to finish.

Owner Theo Krambias and his family have been a part of the Melbourne hospitality scene for more than 20 years and are excited to bring the traditions of Italy to their new Victorian boutique store. Appointed as executive chef is Elena Kavallaris, who spent six months honing her skills in Bologna. Alongside Elena, head chef Robin Turner – previously on the pans at La Luna Bistro in Carlton and Zsa’s Bar and Bistro in Northcote – will work to produce enticing pasta dishes. 

An online store will open via the shop’s website from late May, and a restaurant at the same location will spring open its doors later this year. Next year, those outside of Melbourne will be able to put in their online orders Australia-wide. Vegan and gluten-free options will be available on site and seasonal offerings will evolve each week.

Pasta Poetry is located at 86 Station Street, Fairfield, Melbourne. For further information and the full menu, visit pastapoetry.com.au.