Melbourne’s Top Classic Italian Diners

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of pasta, a glass of Sangiovese, and a heaping spoon of tiramisu to transport you straight to Italy—no passport required. Melbourne is home to some of the country’s most beloved old-school Italian diners, from time-honoured institutions to family-run gems that have stood the test of time.

Tiamo

A Lygon Street institution, Tiamo is a warm, bustling bistro that hasn’t changed much in decades—and that’s exactly why locals love it. Open seven days a week, it’s a go-to for everything from comforting pasta to hearty meat dishes. Highlights include the indulgent four-cheese gnocchi and the char-grilled eye fillet with porcini mushroom ragu. Don’t skip the daily specials on the blackboard, and for those with dietary needs, gluten-free pizza and pasta options are available.

Pellegrini’s

For a slice of Melbourne’s Italian soul, there’s nowhere quite like Pellegrini’s. This legendary spot is a living piece of local history, beloved for its no-fuss charm, heartfelt hospitality, and strong short blacks. Take a seat at the iconic curved bar for a simple bowl of spaghetti, or enjoy the city buzz from the outdoor tables—one of which pays tribute to the late, much-loved co-owner Sisto Malaspina.

Grossi Florentino

Grossi Florentino is a pillar of Italian fine dining in Melbourne. Choose your vibe: the relaxed charm of the Cellar Bar, the classic flavours at the Grill, or the elegant, upstairs Florentino dining room. The latter offers a refined experience where Italian culinary traditions meet contemporary technique, all delivered with warm, attentive service.

La Spaghettata

A family favourite for decades, La Spaghettata is a cornerstone of Lygon Street’s Italian dining scene. The menu is stacked with comforting classics—think chicken cacciatore, veal parmigiana, and steak Diana. Pasta lovers will be spoiled for choice with options like gnocchi bocconcini, penne pesto, tortellini funghi, and a standout spaghetti crab.