If you’ve ever wandered the winding aisles of IKEA, you’ll know it’s not just about flat-pack furniture and Swedish design—it’s also about the food.
From the iconic meatballs to the irresistible cinnamon buns, IKEA’s food court is a destination in its own right. But the Swedish giant is taking things up a notch, and you might just be missing out on one of the tastiest secrets in town.
To celebrate a whopping 50 years in Australia, IKEA is throwing a birthday bash like no other. And what’s a party without party pies? But these aren’t your average footy snacks.
On 31 May, every IKEA store across the country is giving away a FREE limited-edition Meatball Party Pie to every customer—and yes, you read that right: free!
This isn’t just any pie. It’s a glorious mash-up of two national icons: the humble Australian party pie and IKEA’s legendary Swedish meatball.
And for those who prefer plant-based treats, IKEA hasn’t forgotten you. A plant-based version is made so that everyone can join the party.
But wait, there’s more! As part of the four-day celebration (from 30 May to 2 June), IKEA is also slashing the price of its classic hot dogs to just 50 cents on Saturday and Sunday.
Plus, there are giveaways, limited-edition launches, and a whopping 50 per cent off the iconic POÄNG armchair for IKEA Family members.
If you’re not already a member, don’t worry—you can sign up for free online or via the IKEA app, and unlock all these birthday perks.
It’s all part of IKEA’s way of saying thank you to Australians, who have embraced the brand since it landed on our shores in 1975.
Over the past five decades, IKEA has become a staple in Australian homes for its affordable, stylish furniture and unique in-store food experience.
Over half of us have tucked into a meal at IKEA, and last year alone, Australians devoured over 3 million plates of those famous meatballs.
Tim Prevade, IKEA Australia’s country food manager, perfectly sums it up: ‘Australians have embraced our food as much as our high-quality, affordable home furnishings in the last 50 years.’
‘The Meatball Party Pie is a fun, flavour-packed way to celebrate that. We’ve taken the comfort of a classic Australian party pie and combined it with the unmistakable flavour of our iconic Swedish meatballs—creating something unexpected and nostalgic, with a unique twinkle-in-the-eye that can only be IKEA.’
The pies resulted from collaborating with Loftus Pies, a beloved Sydney-based bakery that has been supplying IKEA for years.
John Tsoutsas, Loftus Pies’ chief pie officer, is just as excited as we are: ‘Australians are very particular about their pies, but we can’t wait for people to taste them. We’re convinced customers are going to want them on the menu, even after the party is over.’
So, why all the fuss about food at a furniture store? For many of us, a trip to IKEA is as much about the experience as shopping.
It’s a place to explore, share a meal with family or friends, and enjoy a little treat after navigating the maze of showrooms. The food is part of the ritual—a reward for surviving the flat-pack challenge or a reason to visit.
And now, with this free pie offer, IKEA is giving us yet another reason to pop in. Whether you’re a die-hard meatball fan, a pie aficionado, or love a good freebie, this is one birthday party you won’t want to miss.
So, will you head to IKEA this weekend to claim your free Meatball Party Pie? Have you tried their plant-based options, or do you have a favourite IKEA food memory to share? Let us know in the comments below.
Also read: This $15 IKEA secret has shoppers obsessed—could it be your new must-have?
