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.
- Varied menu options catering to different preferences
- Cozy and inviting atmosphere
- High-quality ingredients sourced from Italy
- Attentive and knowledgeable staff
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.
- 1. Universal Restaurant
- 2. Da Guido La Pasta
- 3. Brunetti Classico Carlton
- 4. Papa Gino's
- 5. Tiamo
- 6. Cafe Cavallino
- 7. Donnini's
- 8. Mercadante Woodfired Pizzeria
- 9. Il Gambero
- 10. Piccolo Mondo
- 11. Cafe Corretto
- 12. Copperwood Restaurant
- 13. Stuzzichino Restaurant & Bar
- 14. La Spaghettata Restaurant
- 15. Tono on Borsari
- 16. Il Gusto
- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
1. Universal Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- 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.
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.
- Monday: 6–10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 6–10:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6–10:30 PM
- Thursday: 6–10:30 PM
- Friday: 6–11 PM
- Saturday: 12–3 PM
- Sunday: 12–3 PM
2. Da Guido La Pasta
Information and Reviews
- 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.
- Monday: 6 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–11:30 PM
- Saturday: 6 AM–11:30 PM
- Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
3. Brunetti Classico Carlton
Information and Reviews
Some of the key aspects highlighted by customers include:
- 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.
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
4. Papa Gino's
Information and Reviews
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:
- 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.
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.
- Monday: 12–9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 12–9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 12–9:30 PM
- Thursday: 12–9:30 PM
- Friday: 12–9:30 PM
- Saturday: 12–9:30 PM
- Sunday: 12–9:30 PM
5. Tiamo
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Delicious and heartily portioned Italian food
- Exceptional service with great recommendations
- Fast service and delicious food
- Generous pasta servings and tasty dishes
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.
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5–11 PM
- Thursday: 5–11 PM
- Friday: 12 PM–12 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM–1 AM
- Sunday: 12–11 PM
6. Cafe Cavallino
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about Cafe Cavallino for various reasons:
- 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.
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!
- Monday: 12–9 PM
- Tuesday: 12–9 PM
- Wednesday: 12–9 PM
- Thursday: 12–9 PM
- Friday: 12–10 PM
- Saturday: 12–10 PM
- Sunday: 12–9 PM
7. Donnini's
Information and Reviews
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:
- 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.
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
8. Mercadante Woodfired Pizzeria
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.3, the pizzeria has garnered 835 reviews from satisfied customers. Here are some key points summarizing their experiences:
- Generous servings of delicious food
- Excellent customer service
- Great atmosphere and quick service
- Reasonable prices and tasty wood-fired pizzas
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.
- Monday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
9. Il Gambero
Information and Reviews
Recent reviews praise Il Gambero for its exceptional service and delicious food. Some of the key points from customer reviews include:
- 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.
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.
- Monday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
10. Piccolo Mondo
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the exceptional quality of food and service provided by Piccolo Mondo:
- 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.
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
11. Cafe Corretto
Information and Reviews
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:
- 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
- Monday: 12–10 PM
- Tuesday: 12–10 PM
- Wednesday: 12–10 PM
- Thursday: 12–10 PM
- Friday: 12–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 12–10:30 PM
- Sunday: 12–10 PM
12. Copperwood Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- 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.
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?
- Monday: 7 AM–3 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–3 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–3 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–3 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–3 PM
13. Stuzzichino Restaurant & Bar
Information and Reviews
This restaurant is known for its exceptional service and delicious food, as highlighted in the customer reviews:
- 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.
- Monday: 11 AM–10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–11:30 PM
14. La Spaghettata Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Customers have left 1364 reviews with an average rating of 3.9 stars. Here are a few key points from their comments:
- 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.
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.
- Monday: 3:30 PM–12 AM
- Tuesday: 3:30 PM–12 AM
- Wednesday: 3:30 PM–12 AM
- Thursday: 3:30 PM–12 AM
- Friday: 3:30 PM–12 AM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
15. Tono on Borsari
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- 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.
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.
- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
16. Il Gusto
Information and Reviews
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.
- 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.
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.
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!
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:
- 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.
Whether you're craving handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, or creamy gelato, Lygon Street has a restaurant to satisfy every Italian food craving.
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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