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The 16 Best Italian Restaurants on Lygon Street, Melbourne

For those craving authentic Italian cuisine in Melbourne, Lygon Street is the place to be. Known as the city's Little Italy, this bustling street is home to a plethora of restaurants offering delicious pasta, pizza, and other traditional dishes.

Whether you're in the mood for a family-friendly trattoria, a romantic date night spot, or a trendy wine bar, Italian Lygon has something for everyone. With so many options to choose from, finding the perfect restaurant can be overwhelming. That's where this list of the best Italian restaurants on Lygon Street comes in handy.

Whether you're a local looking to try a new spot or a visitor seeking an authentic Italian experience, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings. Without further ado, here are the 16 best Italian restaurants on Lygon Street, Melbourne.

How this guide is ordered

Our Melbourne editors chose these businesses from across the city and suburbs, looking for a reputation that has stood up over time, details we could confirm and genuinely good work in their field. Each list is reviewed through the year as places open, move and close.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

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#1
Universal Restaurant
4.46,123 reviews
#2
Da Guido La Pasta
4.61,254 reviews
#3
Brunetti Classico Carlton
4.33,904 reviews

Full list

Compare 16 local options

Universal Restaurant#1
What stands out

  • Great and simple Italian food that is wonderfully budget-friendly.

  • Professional and attentive service that fulfills every demand.

  • Amazing food at reasonable prices with large portion sizes.

  • Friendly staff and delicious dishes like the Chicken Parma and Garlic Bread.

Universal Restaurant

4.46,123 reviews
141 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Universal Restaurant offers a delightful experience for Italian cuisine enthusiasts, located in Carlton, Australia. With a rating of 4.4 and 6123 reviews, customers rave about the flavors and ambiance of this establishment. Some key points from customer reviews include:

The restaurant provides various service options like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. It also offers accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible amenities. Customers can enjoy a range of offerings from alcohol to vegetarian options in a casual and cozy atmosphere. With an array of dining options available like brunch, lunch, dinner, and catering, Universal Restaurant ensures a memorable dining experience for all its patrons.

Da Guido La Pasta#2
What stands out

  • The best Italian restaurant in Melbourne with amazing food and detailed explanations from the host.

  • Great prices, quality, and quantity of food, attentive service, and beautiful decor for special occasions.

  • 5-star service, excellent food quality especially with homemade pastas, and knowledgeable staff on food allergies.

  • Delicious food, lovely atmosphere, good wine list, and fantastic host who makes the dining experience enjoyable.

Da Guido La Pasta

4.61,254 reviews
130 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Da Guido La Pasta is a renowned Italian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia, offering a variety of delicious dishes and exceptional services. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, dine-in, and takeaway options, creating a memorable dining experience.

Brunetti Classico Carlton#3
What stands out

  • Loved the different atmospheres and the amazing desserts.

  • Welcoming atmosphere, exceptional service, and a wide variety of coffee and cakes.

  • Highly recommended for a sweet indulgence with a great selection of treats and courteous staff.

  • Beautiful atmosphere, variety of choices, and friendly service making it a must-visit spot on Lygon Street.

Brunetti Classico Carlton

4.33,904 reviews
380 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Brunetti Classico Carlton is a renowned Italian restaurant located in the heart of Carlton, Australia. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. The highlights of the restaurant include Fast service and Great cocktails.

Some of the key aspects highlighted by customers include:

Papa Gino's#4
What stands out

  • The food is pretty good with thin crust pizzas and plenty of toppings at a good price.

  • The vegetarian pizza and marinara pasta were flavorful and delicious, perfect for sharing among a group.

  • The service is efficient and extremely friendly, with unique and delicious dishes like procuitto pizza.

  • Customers appreciate the quality of the food, with dishes like carbonara pasta receiving high praise for taste and presentation.

Papa Gino's

4.41,998 reviews
221 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Papa Gino's is a popular Italian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia. They offer a range of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, as well as a variety of offerings including alcohol, beer, coffee, late-night food, spirits, and wine. The restaurant provides lunch, dinner, and dessert options with seating available.

The atmosphere is described as casual and cozy, making it a great spot for groups. Papa Gino's accepts reservations and offers various payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. Families are welcome with good amenities for children such as high chairs and a kids' menu.

Customer reviews rave about the delicious food and friendly service at Papa Gino's. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a solid rating of 4.4, Papa Gino's is a must-visit Italian restaurant for those looking for authentic and delicious cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Tiamo#5
What stands out

  • Delicious and heartily portioned Italian food

  • Exceptional service with great recommendations

  • Fast service and delicious food

  • Generous pasta servings and tasty dishes

Tiamo

4.32,807 reviews
303 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Tiamo is an exquisite Italian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia. With a rating of 4.3 stars from 2807 reviews, it is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers a range of services and features including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

With a cozy and casual atmosphere, Tiamo provides an authentic dining experience for those looking to enjoy traditional Italian cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for pasta, pizza, or a nice glass of wine, Tiamo is the perfect spot for a memorable meal.

Cafe Cavallino#6
What stands out

  • The friendly and welcoming staff create a cozy and inviting dining experience.

  • The delicious and authentic Italian dishes never fail to impress, especially the pizza and pasta offerings.

  • The reasonable prices for high-quality food and the family-friendly environment make it a great choice for a meal out.

Cafe Cavallino

4.31,548 reviews
181-187 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Cafe Cavallino is an exquisite Italian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia. The warm and casual atmosphere combined with their impeccable service options make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Customers rave about Cafe Cavallino for various reasons:

One enthusiastic reviewer described it as the "BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT IN MELBOURNE!" praising the food, service, and ambience. Another customer appreciated the generous servings and said the Cafe Cavallino truly felt like a family dining room with its welcoming atmosphere.

With a rating of 4.3 stars and over 1500 reviews, Cafe Cavallino continues to delight guests with its flavorful menu and exceptional hospitality. If you're looking for an unforgettable Italian dining experience in Carlton, make sure to visit Cafe Cavallino soon!

Donnini's#7
What stands out

  • Warm and efficient service with accommodating wait staff.

  • Outstanding pasta dishes and authentic Italian fare, including pizza.

  • Excellent food served in a relaxed and calm atmosphere.

  • Highly recommended for exceptional food and service, perfect for friends and family.

Donnini's

4.4670 reviews
320 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Donnini's is a charming Italian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia. The restaurant offers a traditional family affair with a super friendly and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for intimate rendezvous or casual gatherings.

Customers rave about the welcoming staff and management who go the extra mile to ensure a satisfying experience. Fresh and delicious food offerings include seasonal variants like the must-try gnocchi and tortellini. The restaurant's ambiance is described as casual, cozy, and upmarket.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Mercadante Woodfired Pizzeria#8
What stands out

  • Generous servings of delicious food

  • Excellent customer service

  • Great atmosphere and quick service

  • Reasonable prices and tasty wood-fired pizzas

Mercadante Woodfired Pizzeria

4.3835 reviews
123 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Mercadante Woodfired Pizzeria is a renowned pizza restaurant located in Carlton, VIC. The establishment offers a range of services and features including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy a variety of offerings such as alcohol, cocktails, coffee, and vegetarian options. The restaurant provides a casual and cozy atmosphere, ideal for groups and families. For added convenience, Mercadante Woodfired Pizzeria accepts reservations and various payment methods.

With a rating of 4.3, the pizzeria has garnered 835 reviews from satisfied customers. Here are some key points summarizing their experiences:

Experience the culinary delights of Mercadante Woodfired Pizzeria and indulge in their mouth-watering pizzas and pasta dishes. Whether it's a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, this pizzeria is sure to impress with its delectable offerings and warm ambiance.

Il Gambero#9
What stands out

  • The gnocci was fluffy and soft, the risotto and fettuccine were cooked perfectly.

  • A family enjoyed various dishes including pizza, pasta, mussels, calamari, and fish n chips, all of which were faultless.

  • Visitors appreciated the friendly service and the quality of dishes like mussels, pizza, and steak, ending the meal with delicious desserts.

  • However, some customers experienced long wait times for food and noted that despite the bustling atmosphere, the food did not meet their expectations.

Il Gambero

4.21,237 reviews
166 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Il Gambero is a renowned Italian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. The menu boasts a wide range of offerings like beer, cocktails, coffee, spirits, and wine. Dining options include lunch, dinner, catering, and dessert. The atmosphere is described as casual and cozy, perfect for groups.

Recent reviews praise Il Gambero for its exceptional service and delicious food. Some of the key points from customer reviews include:

With a rating of 4.2 stars, Il Gambero is a top choice for Italian cuisine in Carlton. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience exceptional service and delectable dishes at this charming restaurant.

Piccolo Mondo#10
What stands out

  • Great Seafood with fresh calamari and exceptional service, personalized diet adjustments were made.

  • Extensive menu offering traditional Italian dishes, seafood platter was exceptional.

  • Culinary magic with standout dishes like grilled octopus and a giant seafood platter, homemade desserts were delightful.

  • Home-style pasta cooked to perfection, generous servings, and friendly service.

Piccolo Mondo

4.2979 reviews
240 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Piccolo Mondo is a charming Italian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia. They offer a variety of services and features to make your dining experience memorable, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. With a focus on creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere, Piccolo Mondo is perfect for intimate gatherings or casual meals with friends.

Customer reviews highlight the exceptional quality of food and service provided by Piccolo Mondo:

Cafe Corretto#11
What stands out

  • Friendly staff and reasonable menu options

  • Great stone baked pizzas with a variety of choices

  • Consistent quality of food and service

  • Memorable dining experience with reasonable prices and amazing pizza

Cafe Corretto

4.11,088 reviews
227 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Cafe Corretto is a renowned pizza restaurant located in Carlton, Victoria. They offer a variety of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. For those with accessibility needs, the restaurant provides wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. Customers can enjoy a range of offerings including alcohol, beer, coffee, late-night food, small plates, spirits, and wine.

The dining options at Cafe Corretto include breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert, all served in a casual and cosy atmosphere. The restaurant is good for kids and offers high chairs and a kids' menu. In terms of dining experience, customers can expect free of charge street parking in the vicinity.

With an impressive rating of 4.1 stars based on 1088 reviews, Cafe Corretto has garnered positive feedback from its patrons. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Copperwood Restaurant#12
What stands out

  • A beautiful charming place to share a meal with loved ones.

  • Impressive service and utterly delicious food, such as the spaghetti marinara.

  • Warm and welcoming atmosphere with friendly and engaging staff.

Copperwood Restaurant

4.1810 reviews
318 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Copperwood Restaurant is a charming Italian restaurant located in the heart of Carlton, Australia. With a rating of 4.1 stars from 810 reviews, it's clear that customers are impressed with the experience they receive at this establishment.

Whether you're looking for a cozy dine-in experience or considering takeaway options, Copperwood Restaurant has you covered. Their menu includes a variety of options like beer, cocktails, healthy choices, and more, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

So, why not stop by Copperwood Restaurant for a delightful dining experience that will leave you satisfied and planning your next visit?

Stuzzichino Restaurant & Bar#13
What stands out

  • Best omelette in Melbourne with polite and personable staff.

  • Fantastic fresh homemade pastries and warm, welcoming staff for morning coffee.

  • Great food and coffee with intense flavors, perfect for Italian cuisine lovers.

  • Delicious vegetarian platter and flavorful matriciana, friendly wait staff, and great for Italian food enthusiasts.

Stuzzichino Restaurant & Bar

4.2278 reviews
169 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Stuzzichino Restaurant & Bar is a cozy Sicilian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia, offering a delightful dining experience. The establishment provides a range of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. They also offer various offerings such as alcohol, cocktails, coffee, and healthy options. Customers can enjoy their breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, or dessert in a casual and cozy atmosphere.

This restaurant is known for its exceptional service and delicious food, as highlighted in the customer reviews:

La Spaghettata Restaurant#14
What stands out

  • The staff creates a family-like atmosphere, perfect for a dinner date. The share platter is a must-try.

  • Delicious fettuccine carbonara with attentive service in a pleasant ambiance. Ample seating space available.

  • Great service, especially for special occasions like birthdays. Some dishes may have room for improvement in terms of flavor.

  • Warm and fresh food, tasty spaghetti sauces, and flavorful fries. Excellent customer service with regular check-ins.

La Spaghettata Restaurant

3.91,364 reviews
238 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

La Spaghettata Restaurant is a charming Italian restaurant located in the heart of Carlton, Australia. Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant offers a range of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. With features like a cozy fireplace and wheelchair-accessible seating, La Spaghettata provides an inclusive environment for all guests.

Customers have left 1364 reviews with an average rating of 3.9 stars. Here are a few key points from their comments:

With a diverse menu offering alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, and more, La Spaghettata ensures that every guest finds something to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a casual meal with family, a cozy dinner for two, or a celebration with friends, this restaurant provides the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. Don't miss out on the authentic Italian dining experience at La Spaghettata Restaurant.

Tono on Borsari#15
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.

  • The homemade pasta and delicious wine selection are highly recommended.

  • Guests appreciate the reasonable prices and attentive service.

Tono on Borsari

3.71,114 reviews
201 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Tono on Borsari is a charming Italian restaurant located in Carlton, Australia. They offer a variety of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere that appeals to groups.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

So whether you're looking for a relaxing evening dining in or grabbing a quick takeaway, Tono on Borsari is a great choice for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.

Il Gusto#16
What stands out

  • The seafood marinara is lauded for its rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked seafood.

  • Customers rave about the delightful fusion of flavors in the seafood pizza, with fresh and generous toppings.

  • Many patrons appreciate the impeccable service, inviting ambiance, and memorable overall experience at Il Gusto.

Il Gusto

3.1411 reviews
256 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Il Gusto is a charming Italian restaurant located on Lygon Street in Carlton, Australia. The restaurant offers various services and features to enhance the dining experience, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy a selection of alcoholic beverages, such as wine and beer, alongside their meals.

The atmosphere at Il Gusto is described as casual and cosy, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The restaurant accepts reservations, ensuring that customers can secure a table during busy hours.

Whether you're in the mood for traditional Italian pasta dishes or gourmet pizzas, Il Gusto aims to provide a delightful culinary experience for all visitors.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Universal Restaurant 4.46,123
#2Da Guido La Pasta 4.61,254
#3Brunetti Classico Carlton 4.33,904
#4Papa Gino's 4.41,998
#5Tiamo 4.32,807
#6Cafe Cavallino 4.31,548
#7Donnini's 4.4670
#8Mercadante Woodfired Pizzeria 4.3835
#9Il Gambero 4.21,237
#10Piccolo Mondo 4.2979
#11Cafe Corretto 4.11,088
#12Copperwood Restaurant 4.1810
#13Stuzzichino Restaurant & Bar 4.2278
#14La Spaghettata Restaurant 3.91,364
#15Tono on Borsari 3.71,114
#16Il Gusto 3.1411

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Map and areas

Map of Italian Restaurants on Lygon Street, Melbourne

Discover the vibrant Italian culture in Melbourne's Lygon Street with our detailed map showing all the best restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors and aromas of authentic Italian cuisine while experiencing the bustling energy of this iconic cultural hub. Buon appetito!

How to choose italian lygon in Melbourne

  1. Varied menu options catering to different preferences.
  2. Cozy and inviting atmosphere.
  3. High-quality ingredients sourced from Italy.
  4. Attentive and knowledgeable staff.

Frequently asked questions

What is Lygon Street in Melbourne known for?

Lygon Street is a famous cultural strip in Melbourne, known as the Italian quarter of the city. It is renowned for its many Italian restaurants, cafes, and gelato shops, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The street is also home to the annual Lygon Street Festival, celebrating Italian culture with food, music, and entertainment. The area has a rich history of Italian immigration, with many families setting up businesses on Lygon Street in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, the street continues to be a vibrant hub of Italian culture, offering a taste of Italy in the heart of Melbourne.

What are some must-visit Italian restaurants on Lygon Street?

Lygon Street is home to a wide variety of Italian restaurants, ranging from family-run trattorias to upscale dining establishments. Some popular options include: Whether you're craving handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, or creamy gelato, Lygon Street has a restaurant to satisfy every Italian food craving. Tiamo: A cozy restaurant known for its authentic Italian cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. DOC: A favorite spot for pizza lovers, serving traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas and a selection of Italian wines. University Café: A longstanding institution on Lygon Street, known for its delicious pasta dishes and bustling atmosphere.

Is Lygon Street in Melbourne worth a visit?

Absolutely! Lygon Street offers a unique blend of Italian culture, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere that make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Melbourne's culinary scene. Whether you're strolling down the street sampling gelato, enjoying a leisurely meal at a trattoria, or browsing the shops for Italian imports, Lygon Street has something for everyone. With its historic charm and bustling energy, a visit to Lygon Street is sure to be a memorable experience that captures the essence of Melbourne's multicultural heritage.

How can I get to Lygon Street in Melbourne?

Lygon Street is located in the suburb of Carlton, just north of the Melbourne CBD. The street is easily accessible by public transport, with trams running along nearby major thoroughfares such as Swanston Street and Elgin Street. Tram routes 1 and 8 stop near Lygon Street, making it convenient to reach the area from various parts of the city. If you prefer to drive, there are also parking facilities available in the surrounding streets or paid parking garages nearby. Alternatively, you can explore Lygon Street on foot or by bike, taking in the sights and sounds of this lively Italian enclave at your own pace.

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