Let’s be honest: when it comes to comfort food, Italian cuisine is hard to beat. Whether it’s a rich plate of pasta, a wood-fired pizza straight from the oven, or a perfectly creamy tiramisu, Italian food never fails to deliver joy.
Melbourne, with its thriving multicultural food scene, has become a true haven for Italian dining. From long-standing institutions on Lygon Street to modern restaurants, the city has options for every occasion.
But with so many restaurants, where do you even start? Don’t worry, we’ve rounded up the best Italian spots in Melbourne, plus a little secret: how to enjoy an Italian feast without even stepping outside your home.
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What makes Italian food truly great?
In Italy, meals are not rushed; they’re moments to connect with family, friends, and even strangers. The culture of dining is about sharing, storytelling, and celebrating the simple joy of good food. That same philosophy has shaped Melbourne’s Italian dining scene, making it feel both authentic and welcoming.
At the heart of Italian cooking is simplicity with respect for ingredients. Rather than overwhelming a dish with too many elements, Italian chefs focus on letting one or two ingredients shine. A plate of spaghetti aglio e olio (just garlic, olive oil, and chilli) is a perfect example of how humble components can create unforgettable flavor.
Regional traditions also play a huge role. Each part of Italy has its specialities, from the seafood-rich dishes of Sicily to the butter and cheese-laden plates of the north. Melbourne’s Italian restaurants mirror this diversity, offering everything from rustic southern recipes to elegant northern delicacies.
Cooking methods are equally important. Slow simmering, hand-kneading, wood-firing, and fresh rolling of pasta are all techniques passed down through generations. There’s an emphasis on artisanal preparation: pasta made fresh daily, pizza dough left to rise for 48 hours, sauces cooked low and slow to intensify flavour.
And then there’s the social side. Italian meals are about abundance, big platters of antipasti to share, long pasta bowls placed in the middle of the table, and desserts served with multiple spoons. It’s this combination of craft, culture, and conviviality that makes Italian cuisine not just food, but an experience.
Where to eat Italian food in Melbourne? Our top picks by occasion
For a romantic date night
- Grossi Florentino (CBD): an institution in Melbourne’s dining scene, Grossi Florentino oozes elegance. Upstairs, the fine dining room serves classics like veal cotoletta and handmade pasta, paired with an extensive Italian wine list. It’s perfect for a special night out.
- Tipo 00 (CBD): a pasta bar loved by locals, Tipo 00 is intimate and sophisticated without being pretentious. Their tagliolini al nero with squid ink is a must, and the warm service makes it ideal for date night.
For a group celebration
- Cecconi’s (Flinders Lane): family-run with a focus on Northern Italian cuisine, Cecconi’s is perfect for big occasions. The menu balances tradition with creativity, offering everything from braised duck ragu pappardelle to seasonal seafood.
- Tiamo (Carlton): a Lygon Street classic, Tiamo is lively, casual, and made for groups. Big servings, hearty pasta, and pizza to share, this is Italian dining at its most social.
Bring local flavors to your kitchen
From market-fresh ingredients to traditional recipes, a private chef turns your home into a true local experience.
For a casual bite
- D.O.C Pizza & Mozzarella Bar (Carlton, Mornington, Southbank): known for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, this spot also shines with imported cheeses, prosciutto, and mozzarella di bufala. Great for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
- Baby Pizza (Richmond): a trendy spot by the team behind Chin Chin, Baby Pizza is fun, casual, and reliably delicious. Their wood-fired margherita and burrata with basil oil are crowd favourites.
For a trendy night out
- Arlechin (CBD): from the Grossi family, this late-night bar and eatery is where you’ll find chefs after hours. Think spaghetti bolognese at midnight and cocktails to match. It’s Italian with a playful, urban twist.
- Capitano (Carlton): known for its giant pizzas and creative pasta dishes, Capitano is perfect if you’re after bold flavours and a cool, buzzing atmosphere.
For a classic Italian experience
- Trattoria Emilia (CBD): this restaurant is renowned for its handmade pasta and authentic recipes passed down through generations. The ambiance is warm and inviting, offering a genuine taste of Italy.
- Il Solito Posto (CBD): cosy, rustic, and authentic, this lane way restaurant makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into Italy. Perfect for hearty classics like lasagne and osso buco.
Signature Italian dishes you must try in Melbourne
Sure, you’ve got the restaurants, but what about the dishes?
Here are the must-haves when it comes to Italian food in Melbourne:
- Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
Soft potato dumplings baked in tomato sauce with mozzarella, the definition of comfort food
- Tagliatelle al Ragù
Melbourne loves a slow-cooked meat ragù, often rich with pork, veal, or lamb, and paired with silky ribbons of pasta.
- Burrata with seasonal produce
Creamy, indulgent burrata paired with heirloom tomatoes or roasted peppers, a starter you’ll find on many Melbourne menus.
- Wood-fired pizza Napolitana
Charred edges, chewy dough, and San Marzano tomatoes. Melbourne has mastered the art of Neapolitan pizza.
- Tiramisu
A Melbourne favourite dessert, often reimagined by modern chefs but always featuring the essential combo of mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa.
- Gelato
From Pidapipó in Carlton to Gelato Messina, no Italian meal is complete without a scoop (or three).
Prefer staying in? Book a private Italian chef to cook for you in the comfort of your home
Now, maybe you’re not in the mood to queue for a table or fight for a booking weeks in advance. That’s where Take a Chef comes in.
Whether you’re planning a cosy romantic dinner for two, a special family gathering, or a celebration with friends, our private Italian chefs will tailor the menu to your taste, dietary preferences, and event needs.
No need to stress about shopping for ingredients or getting the timing just right, your private chef will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook from scratch, and even clean up afterward. The only thing you need to do is sit back, relax, and savour every bite of restaurant-quality Italian cuisine, right in the comfort of your own home.
It’s like bringing Lygon Street into your living room, but with all the comfort of home.
FAQs about the best Italian food in Melbourne
Let’s answer a few questions you might have:
What’s the best neighbourhood for Italian food in Melbourne?
Carlton is the spiritual home of Italian dining in Melbourne, thanks to its iconic Lygon Street. But the CBD and suburbs like Richmond and Fitzroy are also packed with modern restaurants worth exploring.
What’s the average price of an Italian dinner in NYC?
The price of a meal can vary. At casual spots, you can expect to pay around $25–$40 AUD per person. Upscale venues, like Grossi Florentino, will cost around $60–$120 AUD per person for a multi-course meal.
Are there vegetarian-friendly options?
Absolutely. Italian cuisine naturally offers plenty of vegetarian dishes, from gnocchi alla sorrentina to mushroom risotto. Many restaurants also adapt menus for vegan and gluten-free diners. And if you hire a private chef in Melbourne, they’ll tailor the menu to your needs.
