{"id":18106,"date":"2025-10-09T12:22:53","date_gmt":"2025-10-09T12:22:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/best-italian-food-melbourne"},"modified":"2026-09-25T14:29:20","modified_gmt":"2026-09-25T14:29:20","slug":"best-italian-food-melbourne","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne","title":{"rendered":"Best Italian food in Melbourne: where to eat"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<section class=\"key-takeaways-box\">\n  <h2>Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n  <p class=\"ktb-tldr\"><strong>TL;DR:<\/strong> Melbourne&#8217;s best Italian food runs from Lygon Street classics in Carlton to laneway trattorias in the CBD: Tipo 00 for a date night, Cecconi&#8217;s and Tiamo for groups, D.O.C and Baby for a casual pizza, Capitano for a buzzy night out, and Trattoria Emilia and Il Solito Posto for classic Italian.<\/p>\n  <ul>\n    <li><strong>Date night:<\/strong> Tipo 00, an intimate pasta bar on Little Bourke Street, is loved for its squid ink tagliolini and warm service.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Groups:<\/strong> Cecconi&#8217;s, family-run on Flinders Lane, focuses on northern Italian cooking, while Tiamo on Lygon Street in Carlton is lively and casual, with big servings of pasta and pizza to share.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Casual and trendy:<\/strong> D.O.C Pizza &amp; Mozzarella Bar in Carlton, Mornington and Southbank serves Neapolitan-style pizza and mozzarella di bufala, Baby in Richmond comes from the team behind Chin Chin, and Capitano in Carlton brings big pizzas and a buzzing room.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Classic Italian:<\/strong> Trattoria Emilia in the CBD is known for handmade pasta and recipes passed down through generations, and Il Solito Posto is a cosy, rustic CBD restaurant that feels like a corner of Italy.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Dishes and neighbourhoods:<\/strong> Try gnocchi alla sorrentina, tagliatelle al rag\u00f9, burrata, Neapolitan pizza and tiramisu, with gelato from Pidapip\u00f3 in Carlton or Gelato Messina; Carlton&#8217;s Lygon Street is the spiritual home of Italian dining in Melbourne.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s be honest: when it comes to comfort food,<strong> Italian cuisine is hard to beat<\/strong>. Whether it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Melbourne, with its thriving <strong>multicultural food scene<\/strong>, has become a true haven for Italian dining. From <strong>long-standing institutions on Lygon Street to modern restaurants<\/strong>, the city has options for every occasion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But with so many restaurants, where do you even start? Don\u2019t worry, we\u2019ve <strong>rounded up the best Italian spots in Melbourne<\/strong>, plus a little secret: how to enjoy an Italian feast without even stepping outside your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_88 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-white ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">\u00cdndice<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6aca70f79681d\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #182427;color:#182427\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #182427;color:#182427\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6aca70f79681d\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#what_makes_italian_food_truly_great\" >What makes Italian food truly great?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#where_to_eat_italian_food_in_melbourne_our_top_picks_by_occasion\" >Where to eat Italian food in Melbourne? Our top picks by occasion<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#for_a_romantic_date_night\" >For a romantic date night<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#for_a_group_celebration\" >For a group celebration<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#for_a_casual_bite\" >For a casual bite<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#for_a_trendy_night_out\" >For a trendy night out<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#for_a_classic_italian_experience\" >For a classic Italian experience<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#signature_italian_dishes_you_must_try_in_melbourne\" >Signature Italian dishes you must try in Melbourne<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#prefer_staying_in_book_a_private_italian_chef_to_cook_for_you_in_the_comfort_of_your_home\" >Prefer staying in? Book a private Italian chef to cook for you in the comfort of your home<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#faqs_about_the_best_italian_food_in_melbourne\" >FAQs about the best Italian food in Melbourne<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#whats_the_best_neighbourhood_for_italian_food_in_melbourne\" >What\u2019s the best neighbourhood for Italian food in Melbourne?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#whats_the_average_price_of_an_italian_dinner_in_melbourne\" >What\u2019s the average price of an Italian dinner in Melbourne?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\/#are_there_vegetarian-friendly_options\" >Are there vegetarian-friendly options?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what_makes_italian_food_truly_great\"><\/span><strong>What makes Italian food truly great?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Italy, meals are not rushed; they\u2019re moments to connect with family, friends, and even strangers. The<strong> culture of dining is about sharing, storytelling, and celebrating the simple joy of good food<\/strong>. That same philosophy has shaped Melbourne\u2019s Italian dining scene, making it feel both authentic and welcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the heart of Italian cooking is <strong>simplicity with respect for ingredients<\/strong>. Rather than overwhelming a dish with too many elements, <strong>Italian chefs focus on letting one or two ingredients shine<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regional traditions also play a huge role.<strong> Each part of Italy has its specialities, from the seafood-rich dishes of Sicily to the butter and cheese-laden plates of the north<\/strong>. Melbourne\u2019s Italian restaurants mirror this diversity, offering everything from rustic southern recipes to elegant northern delicacies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cooking methods are equally important. <strong>Slow simmering, hand-kneading, wood-firing, and fresh rolling of pasta<\/strong> are all techniques passed down through generations. There\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And then there\u2019s 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\u2019s this<strong> combination of craft, culture, and conviviality that makes Italian cuisine not just food, but an experience<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"where_to_eat_italian_food_in_melbourne_our_top_picks_by_occasion\"><\/span><strong>Where to eat Italian food in Melbourne? Our top picks by occasion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"for_a_romantic_date_night\"><\/span><strong>For a romantic date night<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Florentino (CBD):<\/strong> an institution in Melbourne\u2019s dining scene, the former Grossi Florentino reopened under new owners in early 2026 and still oozes elegance. Upstairs, the <strong>Dining Room serves refined dishes like duck cappelletti and saffron tagliolini with king prawn<\/strong>, paired with an extensive Italian wine list. It\u2019s perfect for a special night out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tipo 00 (CBD): <\/strong>a pasta bar loved by locals, Tipo 00 is<strong> intimate and sophisticated without being pretentious<\/strong>. Their tagliolini al nero with squid ink is a must, and the warm service makes it ideal for date night.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"for_a_group_celebration\"><\/span><strong>For a group celebration<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cecconi\u2019s (Flinders Lane): <\/strong>family-run with a focus on<strong> Northern Italian cuisine<\/strong>, Cecconi\u2019s is perfect for big occasions. The menu balances tradition with creativity, offering everything from its gnocchi with duck rag\u00f9 to seasonal seafood.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tiamo (Carlton): <\/strong>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.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n      <section class=\"tafc-cta\" aria-label=\"Local Cuisine CTA\">\n        <div class=\"tafc-cta__wrap\">\n          <div class=\"tafc-cta__content\">\n            <span class=\"tafc-cta__eyebrow\">Local Cuisine<\/span>\n            <p class=\"tafc-cta__title\">Bring local flavors to your kitchen<\/p>\n            <p class=\"tafc-cta__desc\">From market-fresh ingredients to traditional recipes, a private chef turns your home into a true local experience.<\/p>\n            <div class=\"tafc-cta__actions\">\n              <a class=\"tafc-cta__btn\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/en-au\/wizard\/default\">Book now<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n          <div class=\"tafc-cta__media\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/How-much-does-a-private-chef-cost.jpg);\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/section>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"for_a_casual_bite\"><\/span><strong>For a casual bite<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>D.O.C Pizza &amp; Mozzarella Bar (Carlton, Mornington, Southbank):<\/strong> known for <strong>authentic Neapolitan-style pizza<\/strong>, this spot also shines with imported cheeses, prosciutto, and mozzarella di bufala. Great for a relaxed lunch or dinner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Baby Pizza (Richmond): <\/strong>a trendy spot by the team behind Chin Chin, Baby Pizza is fun, casual, and reliably delicious. Their <strong>margherita pizza and burrata with peperonata are crowd favourites<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"for_a_trendy_night_out\"><\/span><strong>For a trendy night out<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Capitano (Carlton): <\/strong>known for its<strong> giant pizzas and creative pasta dishes<\/strong>, Capitano is perfect if you\u2019re after bold flavours and a cool, buzzing atmosphere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"for_a_classic_italian_experience\"><\/span><strong>For a classic Italian experience<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Trattoria Emilia (CBD): <\/strong>this restaurant is renowned for its <strong>handmade pasta and authentic recipes passed down through generations<\/strong>. The ambiance is warm and inviting, offering a genuine taste of Italy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Il Solito Posto (CBD): <\/strong>cosy, rustic, and authentic, this laneway restaurant makes you feel like you\u2019ve stumbled into Italy. Perfect for <strong>hearty classics like veal rag\u00f9, beef polpette and roast lamb<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"860\" class=\"gb-media-14b06ff1\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/where-to-eat-italian-food-melbourne.webp\" title=\"where-to-eat-italian-food-melbourne\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/where-to-eat-italian-food-melbourne.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/where-to-eat-italian-food-melbourne-300x252.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/where-to-eat-italian-food-melbourne-768x645.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"signature_italian_dishes_you_must_try_in_melbourne\"><\/span><strong>Signature Italian dishes you must try in Melbourne<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sure, you\u2019ve got the restaurants, but what about the dishes?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the must-haves when it comes to Italian food in Melbourne:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gnocchi alla Sorrentina<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Soft potato dumplings baked in tomato sauce with mozzarella, the definition of comfort food<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tagliatelle al Rag\u00f9<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Melbourne loves a slow-cooked meat rag\u00f9, often rich with pork, veal, or lamb, and paired with silky ribbons of pasta.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Burrata with seasonal produce<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creamy, indulgent burrata paired with heirloom tomatoes or roasted peppers, a starter you\u2019ll find on many Melbourne menus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Wood-fired pizza Napoletana<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Charred edges, chewy dough, and San Marzano tomatoes. Melbourne has mastered the art of Neapolitan pizza.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tiramisu<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Melbourne favourite dessert, often reimagined by modern chefs but always featuring the essential combo of mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"6\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gelato<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Pidapip\u00f3 in Carlton to Gelato Messina, no Italian meal is complete without a scoop (or three).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"prefer_staying_in_book_a_private_italian_chef_to_cook_for_you_in_the_comfort_of_your_home\"><\/span><strong>Prefer staying in? Book a private Italian chef to cook for you in the comfort of your home<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, maybe you\u2019re not in the mood to queue for a table or fight for a booking weeks in advance. That\u2019s where Take a Chef comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you\u2019re planning a cosy romantic dinner for two, a special family gathering, or a celebration with friends, our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/en-au\/services\/italian-private-chef\">private Italian chefs<\/a> <strong>will tailor the menu to your taste, dietary preferences, and event needs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>No need to stress about shopping for ingredients or getting the timing just right<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>It\u2019s like bringing Lygon Street into your living room, but with all the comfort of home<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"faqs_about_the_best_italian_food_in_melbourne\"><\/span><strong>FAQs about the best Italian food in Melbourne<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s answer a few questions you might have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"whats_the_best_neighbourhood_for_italian_food_in_melbourne\"><\/span><strong>What\u2019s the best neighbourhood for Italian food in Melbourne?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carlton is the spiritual home of Italian dining in Melbourne, thanks to its iconic <strong>Lygon Street<\/strong>. But the <strong>CBD and suburbs like Richmond and Fitzroy <\/strong>are also packed with modern restaurants worth exploring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"whats_the_average_price_of_an_italian_dinner_in_melbourne\"><\/span><strong>What\u2019s the average price of an Italian dinner in Melbourne?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The price of a meal can vary. At <strong>casual spots, you can expect to pay around $25\u2013$40 AUD per person<\/strong>. Fine dining costs much more: upstairs at Florentino, the set menus are <strong>$200 and $260 AUD per person<\/strong>, before wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"are_there_vegetarian-friendly_options\"><\/span><strong>Are there vegetarian-friendly options?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Absolutely. Italian cuisine naturally offers plenty of vegetarian dishes, from <strong>gnocchi alla sorrentina to mushroom risotto<\/strong>. Many restaurants also adapt menus for vegan and gluten-free diners. And if you hire a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/en-au\/private-chef\/melbourne\">private chef in Melbourne<\/a>, they\u2019ll tailor the menu to your needs.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Key Takeaways TL;DR: Melbourne&#8217;s best Italian food runs from Lygon Street classics in Carlton to laneway trattorias in the CBD: Tipo 00 for a date night, Cecconi&#8217;s and Tiamo for groups, D.O.C and Baby for a casual pizza, Capitano for a buzzy night out, and Trattoria Emilia and Il Solito Posto for classic Italian. Date &#8230; <a title=\"Best Italian food in Melbourne: where to eat\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/best-italian-food-melbourne\" aria-label=\"Read more about Best Italian food in Melbourne: where to eat\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":18110,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_title":"Best Italian food in Melbourne: complete guide - %sitename%","rank_math_description":"Discover the best Italian food in Melbourne with our guide to top restaurants. Prefer dining at home? Book a private Italian chef to enjoy gourmet meals!","rank_math_focus_keyword":"best italian restaurants melbourne","footnotes":""},"categories":[274],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18106","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-local-cuisine"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18106","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18106"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18106\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":26364,"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18106\/revisions\/26364"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18110"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18106"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18106"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.takeachef.com\/blog\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18106"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}