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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in East Melbourne

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21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Geppetto Trattoria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(99)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • East Melbourne
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the vibrant East Melbourne neighborhood, Geppetto Trattoria is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a culinary experience that combines tradition with modern flair. Established in 1981 and cherished by locals and visitors alike, this family-run gem stands out for its "authentic Italian food, with the most amazing service," as praised by numerous patrons. The restaurant's commitment to quality shines through its beloved dishes like the Osso Buco and Spaghetti Pescatora, crafted with locally sourced ingredients and a touch of home-style love. Reviewers consistently celebrate Geppetto Trattoria for its "excellent meal" experiences and "outstanding service," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine slice of Italy in Melbourne.
A photo of IL Duca Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(21)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • East Melbourne
IL Duca Restaurant, nestled in East Melbourne, is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine, celebrated for its dedication to traditional flavors and homely atmosphere. Established in 1983, this family-oriented gem offers a cozy setting ideal for both intimate dinners and vibrant family gatherings. Patrons often rave about the "real honest Italian food" and the exceptional service, highlighting dishes like the "delicious food and generous portions" of potatoes with rosemary and garlic as must-try. One reviewer exclaims, "Great Italian food, very friendly, efficient staff. Lovely ambiance, I just keep going back!" Whether it's the a la carte dining, the private function room, or the popular entertainment evenings, IL Duca consistently delivers an unforgettable Italian dining experience right in the heart of the city.
A photo of Cecconi's Flinders Lane restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1182)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Melbourne CBD
Booked 8 times today
Cecconi's Flinders Lane is a gem nestled in Melbourne's CBD, celebrated for elevating Contemporary Italian cuisine. Awarded consistently from 2006 to 2023 with One Hat by THE AGE GOOD FOOD GUIDE, the restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere where every detail contributes to a memorable dining experience. Diners rave about the "fabulous food" and "outstanding friendly service," highlighting dishes like Seafood Linguine and Veal Cotoletta. The expansive drink list complements the refined menu perfectly. A patron sums it up: "This restaurant always delivers a high-quality meal and service...the eye fillet was one of the best steaks I’ve had this year." Whether for a special occasion or a delightful meal, Cecconi's promises an unrivaled dining encounter in the heart of Melbourne.
A photo of Grazia Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(943)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Glen Iris
Booked 51 times today
Grazia Restaurant in Glen Iris stands out as a beacon of contemporary Italian cuisine, blending classic flavors with a modern twist that consistently delights its patrons. Reviewers rave about their experiences, noting that the "food was amazing" and the service "outstanding," with one guest celebrating a birthday describing it as "magnificent" with food, wine, staff, and atmosphere "above reproach." The restaurant's ability to consistently deliver exceptional dining experiences is evident, with one reviewer emphatically stating it was a "5-star dining experience each time." Grazia's commitment to quality is further highlighted by its selection of "first quality ingredients cooked with care," ensuring every dish not only meets but exceeds expectations. This gem in Glen Iris is a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of Italy crafted with contemporary flair.
A photo of Teatro Gastronomia restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1022)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Southbank
Booked 25 times today
Teatro Gastronomia, located on the vibrant Southbank Promenade in Melbourne, offers a truly authentic Bistro experience that transports diners straight to the heart of Italy. Celebrated for its "phenomenal food" and "amazing service," Teatro stands out as a culinary theater where each dish performs spectacularly. From traditional wood-fired pizzas to exquisite pasta dishes, the menu showcases a fresh, seasonal produce-driven approach, constantly evolving yet consistently delightful. Diners rave about the "perfectly cooked" lamb ragu and the homemade lasagna, which are just a few highlights of the diverse offerings. With its stunning views of the Yarra River and a lively atmosphere, Teatro Gastronomia is a must-visit for anyone craving an exceptional Bistro dining experience.
A photo of Cecconi's Toorak restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(128)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Toorak
Booked 10 times today
Cecconi's Toorak in the charming neighborhood of Toorak Village stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering an exceptional dining experience that combines modern flair with authentic Italian tastes. It's not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that invites diners to indulge in dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in Italian tradition. Guests rave about their experiences, highlighting the "excellent service" and "delicious food" that make every visit memorable. The ambiance is described as "warm and inviting," perfect for everything from casual dinners to special occasions. The menu, featuring items like the praised truffle linguine and freshly shucked oysters, showcases a sophisticated interpretation of classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Cecconi's Toorak is highly recommended for anyone looking to savor the essence of Italy right in the heart of Toorak.
A photo of DOC Pizza & Pasta Bar, St Kilda restaurant
4.5
Awesome(89)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • St Kilda
Booked 20 times today
DOC Pizza & Pasta Bar in St Kilda is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a refreshing take on classic Italian flavors with a modern twist. Nestled by Port Phillip Bay, this restaurant not only promises enchanting seaside views but also delivers an authentic Italian dining experience. Patrons rave about the "absolutely delicious" Campanelle with duck ragu and the "outstanding" porcini pizza, highlighting DOC's commitment to quality and authenticity. The glowing reviews consistently praise the "warm welcoming" atmosphere and "excellent service," making it clear why DOC is a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of Italy in the heart of St Kilda.
A photo of Luci restaurant
4.3
Awesome(201)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Melbourne CBD
Booked 4 times today
Luci is a contemporary Australian restaurant set in the grand hall of Melbourne’s historic Equity Chambers building.Its art deco styled dining room – designed by Bates Smart – provides a sophisticated backdrop to a contemporary Australian menu with Italian accents.Celebrating Melbourne’s history of Italian immigrants and its evolution into a cosmopolitan culinary city, Luci is a contemporary Australian restaurant housed within the grand hall of the historic Equity Chambers Building.
A photo of Freddy's Pizza restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(256)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Windsor
Booked 18 times today
Freddy's Pizza in the heart of Windsor is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, beloved for its wood-fired pizzas that keep locals coming back for more. Praised as “probably the best pizza I’ve had in my life” and described as “out of this world,” Freddy’s effortlessly blends a cozy atmosphere with culinary excellence. Diners rave about both the quality of the food and the impeccable service, highlighting dishes like the Straciabella pizza and hand-tossed Margherita. With its vibrant courtyard and upbeat vibes, Freddy’s not only promises delicious meals but also an unforgettable dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic, contemporary Italian delights in Melbourne.
A photo of Zia Rina's Cucina restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(216)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Armadale
Booked 5 times today
Zia Rina's Cucina, nestled in the vibrant heart of Armadale, offers a uniquely modern take on traditional Italian cuisine. This charming trattoria, celebrated for its "creative menu and really high-level food" as praised by a delighted patron, focuses on the authenticity and quality of its offerings. With ingredients freshly sourced from local markets and farms, Zia Rina's crafts its dishes with soulful integrity, presenting a rotating $75 set menu that captures the essence of the season. Guests consistently laud the restaurant for its "fantastic service" and "intimate and relaxing" ambiance, making it not just a meal but an unforgettable experience. As one reviewer puts it, it's "hands down one of the best meals I’ve had in Melbourne." Whether you're savoring the heavenly pasta or the beautifully paired Italian wine, Zia Rina's ensures a contemporary Italian culinary adventure that's both delightful and authentic.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • george
    Melbourne •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Haven’t been for a few years but will make sure we make reservations more regularly as it was a fantastic experience
    More info
    Cecconi's Flinders LanePrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Melbourne CBD
    4.7
  • Michellevip
    Melbourne •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We had an early table at 5:45 upstairs. It’s a great room and we were sitting in the area between the kitchen and the bar which was quite narrow, but the staff were very attentive and watching always for anyone moving in that narrow section the restaurant had an amazing turnover of people. Which I would think was a testament to the good service and the good food lots of families having, a quick meal plus others who were grazing and enjoying the atmosphere. The fit out is really really wonderful. Everything was tiptop from the time we walked into the restaurant to the time we left. Nothing was too much trouble. The food was exemplary. we had oysters, fish and steak. The steak could’ve melted in my mouth like it was covered in butter, the oysters were incredible. The cheese platter was incredible. You know I have to say for a local restaurant. It’s a nine out of 10. We will be back at least 100 times thanks for looking after us Grazie.
    More info
    Grazia RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Glen Iris
    4.8
  • David
    Melbourne •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great food before the MSO. Quick service. Attentive and very nice waitress, Sally. Will go again.
    More info
    Teatro GastronomiaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Southbank
    4.3
  • Stephen
    Melbourne •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Absolutely an amazing experience and one of my favourite restaurants. The staff are incredible and the service is always spot on. See you next time.
    More info
    IL Duca RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Australian• East Melbourne
    4.7
  • Philip
    New York City •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 8 Nov 2024
    Overwhelmingly our favorite place to eat in Melbourne. Insanely delicious food, servers who treat us like family and a great vibe. We love Gep Trat!
    More info
    Geppetto TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• East Melbourne
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in East Melbourne

Discover the allure of contemporary Italian cuisine in the vibrant dining scene of East Melbourne, Inner City East. This area is renowned for its eclectic mix of eateries, where culinary traditions meet modern flair, offering an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Each restaurant in this locale provides a unique interpretation of Italian classics, infused with local ingredients and a creative touch, ensuring every dish is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation. From intimate settings perfect for romantic dinners to lively venues that cater to larger gatherings, there is something to suit every occasion. Patrons can expect exceptional service, a warm ambiance, and a dining experience that highlights the best of contemporary Italian cooking. Embrace the charm and sophistication of these establishments, where each meal is not just eaten but celebrated. This summary captures the essence of what makes the contemporary Italian dining scene in East Melbourne a must-visit for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

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