Melbourne is a culinary haven, renowned for its diverse food scene, and its selection of Italian restaurants is no exception. Whether you’re craving authentic wood-fired pizzas, indulgent handmade pastas, or decadent gelato, the city boasts an array of venues that transport you straight to Italy. Our guide to the 7 Best Italian Restaurants in Melbourne will help you discover the finest spots to enjoy classic Italian flavors, modern twists, and impeccable hospitality. From cozy trattorias to upscale dining experiences, Melbourne’s Italian eateries cater to a variety of preferences and budgets, ensuring there’s something for everyone to savor and celebrate. Dive in and embrace the charm of Italy right here in Melbourne!
7
Number of companies
6421
Verified reviews
4,51
Average rating
1. Maccaroni Trattoria Italiana
★
★
★
★
★
4,2/5
10-16 Manchester Ln, 3000, Melbourne
- Italian restaurant
- Pizza restaurant
Why we chose them
Maccaroni Trattoria Italiana stands out for its authentic approach to Italian cuisine, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere in a simple, compact café setting. Known for its dedication to serving high-quality dishes, this Italian restaurant brings the flavors of Italy to life with its expertly crafted menu. Guests can enjoy a rich variety of traditional Italian meals, from freshly prepared pasta to hearty entrees that capture the essence of Italian culinary tradition.
Specializing as both an Italian restaurant and a pizza restaurant, this eatery is a go-to destination for anyone seeking delicious, handmade pizzas and classic Italian favorites. Its charm lies in its simplicity, focusing on delivering exceptional food and a cozy dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, this trattoria promises an unforgettable taste of Italy in every dish.
2. Il Solito Posto
★
★
★
★
★
4,6/5
Basement/113 Collins St, 3000, Melbourne
- Italian restaurant
Why we chose them
Il Solito Posto is a celebrated Italian restaurant nestled in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling CBD. Known for its warm, rustic charm and buzzing atmosphere, this iconic establishment offers both casual dining in the caffeteria and a more formal experience in the trattoria. With a focus on regional Italian cuisine crafted from the freshest seasonal ingredients, diners can indulge in dishes that tantalize the taste buds while exploring the awarded wine list. The inviting ambiance and thoughtful culinary approach make this venue a go-to destination for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Italian dining experience.
Set in a sub-basement space, the restaurant’s unique location adds to its allure, providing a cozy yet vibrant setting for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Patrons can enjoy expertly prepared meals that highlight the essence of Italian cooking, whether they’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely feast. The seamless blend of classy and rustic elements, combined with exceptional service, ensures that every visit feels special. This Melbourne institution is truly “the usual place” for those who appreciate fine food and unforgettable dining moments.
3. Cecconi's
★
★
★
★
★
4,4/5
61 Flinders Ln, 3000, Melbourne
- Italian restaurant
- Meal delivery
- Takeout restaurant
Why we chose them
Renowned for its elegant ambiance and exceptional culinary offerings, Cecconi’s Flinders Lane is a standout destination for those seeking modern Italian food in a sleek and sophisticated setting. The restaurant masterfully combines contemporary design with traditional Italian flavors, creating a dining experience that delights both the palate and the senses. Its carefully curated menu celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine, offering dishes that are both innovative and rooted in authenticity.
In addition to its inviting dine-in experience, the establishment caters to a variety of dining preferences by providing convenient meal delivery and takeout options. Whether you’re planning a cozy meal at home or a special occasion dinner, this Italian gem ensures high-quality dishes are accessible to all. With its commitment to excellence in both service and flavor, it’s no surprise this restaurant has earned a place in our directory as a premier choice for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
4. Foglia di Fico
★
★
★
★
★
4,7/5
585 La Trobe St, 3000, Melbourne
- Italian restaurant
Why we chose them
Foglia di Fico offers an authentic Italian dining experience with a focus on chic ambiance and homemade pasta, making it a standout choice for lovers of Italian cuisine. Known for its elegant yet welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant is celebrated for its dedication to crafting dishes that highlight the flavors of Italy using traditional techniques and fresh ingredients. With multiple venues under its umbrella, including Seme di Fico and Albero di Fico, this brand brings a refined touch to Italian gastronomy in Melbourne.
Beyond its restaurant services, the brand extends its culinary expertise with specialized offerings at locations like Il Forno and La Pasticceria, showcasing their commitment to excellence across the board. Whether dining at their La Trobe Street venue or exploring their presence at Il Mercato Centrale and Docklands, guests can expect an unforgettable experience steeped in Italian tradition and modern sophistication. This dedication to quality and authenticity makes them a distinguished addition to our directory.
5. Scugnizzo Ristorante
★
★
★
★
★
4,6/5
558 Little Bourke St, 3000, Melbourne
- Italian restaurant
Why we chose them
Scugnizzo Ristorante has been serving authentic Southern Italian cuisine since 2010, offering a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for diners seeking traditional Italian flavors. Head Chef Carmine, born and raised in Naples, brings his heritage to life with freshly made pasta and dishes rich in classic Italian ingredients. From their signature spaghetti ai porcini to indulgent desserts like limoncello tiramisù, every meal reflects a dedication to quality and authenticity, making it a go-to spot for Italian food enthusiasts.
Perfect for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings, the restaurant offers a private dining area with a rustic ambiance, ideal for special events like office parties or birthdays. Their tailored set menus cater to groups of varying sizes, ensuring every occasion is memorable. Known for its warm hospitality and expertly crafted dishes, this Southern Italian dining destination continues to delight guests with a true taste of Italy right in the heart of the city.
6. Mister Margherita Pizza South Melbourne
★
★
★
★
★
4,5/5
1/52 Park St, 3205, South Melbourne
- Italian restaurant
- Caterer
- Pizza restaurant
- Takeout restaurant
- Pasta shop
- Pizza delivery
- Pizza takeaway
Why we chose them
Mister Margherita Pizza South Melbourne stands out as the newest addition to South Melbourne’s gourmet dining scene, offering a creative twist on classic Italian flavors. This pizzeria specializes in a diverse range of dishes, including gourmet pizzas, calzones, focaccias, crispy fresh salads, and indulgent desserts, catering to both lunch and dinner crowds. With options to dine in, take away, or enjoy convenient home and office delivery, the venue ensures flexibility and accessibility for its customers. Every dish is crafted with passion, from the homemade sauces to the freshly kneaded bread, embodying their mission to deliver a heartfelt culinary experience.
Known for its impeccable Italian-inspired menu, this pizzeria doubles as a restaurant, caterer, and delivery service, making it an ideal choice for intimate gatherings or corporate events. Their values emphasize creating a welcoming atmosphere where customers feel at home and inspired to enjoy every moment. Whether ordering via platforms like UberEats or Doordash, or celebrating on-site in their event space, the venue invites everyone to savor gourmet flavors crafted with care. Mister Margherita’s dedication to quality and customer experience makes it a key highlight of South Melbourne’s vibrant food scene.
7. Caterina's Cucina E Bar
★
★
★
★
★
4,6/5
221 Queen St, 3000, Melbourne
- Italian restaurant
Why we chose them
Caterina’s Cucina E Bar is a beloved Italian restaurant that has become a go-to lunch destination for Melbourne’s bustling business crowd. Nestled in a basement location, this hidden gem offers an authentic Italian dining experience in an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere. The carefully curated menu showcases classic dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, creating a dining experience that is both refined and comforting. With a focus on delivering exceptional service and exquisite flavors, it has earned its reputation as a standout spot for those seeking a midday culinary escape.
In addition to its weekday lunch service, the restaurant is available for private functions on weekends, making it a versatile venue for special occasions. The thoughtfully crafted wine list further enhances the dining experience, perfectly complementing the Italian cuisine on offer. Whether it’s the acclaimed Baccalá Mantecato or other menu highlights, the attention to detail and passion for Italian traditions make this establishment a noteworthy addition to our directory.
