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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Carlton North

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13 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Capitano Carlton restaurant
1. Capitano Carlton
4.8
Exceptional(9)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Carlton
Booked 30 times today
This stylish Italian-American eatery on Rathdowne Street in Carlton brings warmth and flavour to Melbourne’s dining scene. The menu is rooted in the chef’s U.S. heritage, delivering classic dishes like a skilfully made veal parmigiana, fresh-tossed pastas and a standout range of pizzas baked in a stone-floored oven. The interior feels polished yet relaxed – rich timber finishes, bent-wood chairs and a friendly bar set the tone. Service is attentive and the wine list leans natural, with Italian-inspired selections that match the food. One thing to note: the space can get lively and noisy when full, so for a quieter experience you might prefer an earlier or off-peak visit. Whether you’re after a strong slice of pizza, a pasta night or something a bit more special, this place delivers flavour with attitude in a welcoming setting.
A photo of D.O.C Osteria Carlton restaurant
2. D.O.C Osteria Carlton
4.7
Exceptional(96)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Carlton
Booked 3 times today
D.O.C is real Italian eating and age old simplicity refreshed with contemporary flair. A celebration of heritage. A joy in sharing. Authentic, exuberant and outrageously Italian.
A photo of Cecconi's Flinders Lane restaurant
3. Cecconi's Flinders Lane
4.8
Exceptional(1312)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Melbourne CBD
Booked 31 times today
Cecconi's Flinders Lane is a "Melbourne institution" that offers an exceptional dining experience with its authentic Contemporary Italian cuisine. Nestled in the heart of Melbourne CBD, this sophisticated restaurant has been awarded the prestigious One Hat by The Age Good Food Guide consistently from 2006 to 2023. Diners rave about the "sublime" meals, highlighting dishes like the seafood linguine and veal cotoletta. The restaurant is celebrated for its "impeccable" service and a "wonderful ambience," creating a memorable experience. With a menu that offers real choice and a wine list to match, Cecconi’s stands out as a top destination for Italian fare.
A photo of Funghi E Tartufo restaurant
4. Funghi E Tartufo
4.5
Awesome(233)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Melbourne CBD
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne's CBD, Funghi E Tartufo offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. This plant-based restaurant, led by Chef Alessandra D'Angelo, masterfully blends traditional Italian flavors with a modern, earth-friendly twist. The pappardelle with mushroom and truffle sauce is a standout, described by diners as “simply not possible to go wrong.” Guests rave about the “amazing plant-based food” and the impeccable service, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether vegan or not, patrons leave with a “new appreciation for food” and a desire to return for more delightful culinary adventures.
A photo of Il Caminetto restaurant
5. Il Caminetto
4.7
Exceptional(65)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Moonee Ponds
Booked 9 times today
Il Caminetto, a family-owned Italian restaurant in Moonee Ponds, has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 2018, earning a reputation as one of Melbourne's best. With fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the menu features traditional dishes like homemade pasta, 72-hour rested wood-fired pizza, fresh seafood, and options for vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free diners. Guests enjoy an extensive wine list and a warm, welcoming atmosphere with attentive service, making Il Caminetto perfect for romantic dinners, family celebrations, or group events. Experience the true taste of Italy at Il Caminetto!
A photo of Teatro Gastronomia restaurant
6. Teatro Gastronomia
4.4
Awesome(1224)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Southbank
Booked 26 times today
Teatro Gastronomia, nestled along the vibrant Southbank Promenade, offers an exquisite Contemporary Italian dining experience that captures the true essence of Italy. Guests rave about the “amazing food and even better service,” consistently highlighting the restaurant’s “delicious” offerings, from traditional wood-fired pizzas to delectable pasta dishes. With its fresh, seasonal produce-driven menu, Teatro manages to keep its offerings both authentic and innovative, providing plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The stunning views of the Yarra River add to the atmosphere, making it a perfect pre-show dining spot. Diners consistently praise it as a “highly recommended” destination for Italian cuisine lovers.
A photo of Geppetto Trattoria restaurant
7. Geppetto Trattoria
4.9
Exceptional(227)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • East Melbourne
Booked 16 times today
Geppetto Trattoria, nestled in East Melbourne, is a vibrant beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine. Since 1981, this family-owned gem has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its authentic home-style Italian cooking. Diners rave about the "delicious home-cooked food" and "superb quality" of dishes like the rich Osso Buco and classic Spaghetti Pescatora. The restaurant's welcoming atmosphere and attentive service create a dining experience that feels like a warm embrace. Whether you're savoring a glass of Italian wine or indulging in perfectly cooked seafood, Geppetto Trattoria promises an "authentic, quality dining experience" that you won't soon forget.
A photo of Bar Taralli restaurant
8. Bar Taralli
4.1
Excellent(79)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • North Melbourne
Booked 1 time today
Nestled in the heart of North Melbourne, Bar Taralli brings the rustic charm and bold flavours of Southern Italy to Melbourne.This inviting restaurant is a celebration of authentic Italian cuisine, offering a warm and welcoming space for food lovers to gather.Whether you are craving handmade pasta, fresh seafood, or a glass of fine wine, Bar Taralli promises a dining experience that’s both memorable and delicious.
A photo of Luci restaurant
9. Luci
4.0
Excellent(235)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Melbourne CBD
Booked 4 times today
Luci offers a delightful journey into the world of Contemporary Italian cuisine, nestled in the heart of Melbourne's historic Equity Chambers Building. This hidden gem is celebrated for its "superb" culinary creations that beautifully blend delicate flavors with light, balanced dishes. Diners rave about the "amazing food," with standout mentions of the chef's selection being "outstanding" and the snapper with mushroom sauce being a particular highlight. The ambience, reminiscent of an old-world charm, provides a "fabulous" and sophisticated backdrop, making it an ideal spot for romantic dinners or intimate gatherings. With attentive service and impeccable presentation, Luci ensures a truly memorable dining experience.
A photo of Caterina's Cucina e Bar restaurant
10. Caterina's Cucina e Bar
4.9
Exceptional(34)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Melbourne CBD
Booked 10 times today
If you're unable to find your preferred time slot or availability for your party size, we kindly encourage you to contact the restaurant directly. We'll be more than happy to assist you further.Caterina’s is is a cherished Melbourne institution, testament that pure flavours and simplicity go hand in hand. Chef Marcello, a northerner, ensures authenticity by also drawing upon central and southern dishes.Enter the underground dining room via large Art Deco gates where the wait staff, known for their discretion, look after a corporate clientele, as well as foodies. Lunch can be an all day affair or done simply 'espresso' style.Vitello tonnato is a classic, baccala' mantecato is a must and wet roasted capretto and duck tortelli mirrors regional food. Vegetarian dishes are given respect, relying on varying risotti and polente. Nonna Stella's obligatory grappino and crostoli sets the tone.Over 550 Italian, French and Australian wines are offered.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Sohail
    London •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Exceptional service, absolutely loved it. Big group of people and we received great food, drinks with huge smile. Very accomodating.
    More info
    Cecconi's Flinders Lane$$$$• Italian• Melbourne CBD
    •
    4.8
  • SandraGold
    Melbourne •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Warm and friendly service. Lovely atmosphere. Delicious food and lovely wine recomendation.
    More info
    Il Caminetto$$$$• Italian• Moonee Ponds
    •
    4.7
  • susanGold
    Melbourne •5 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    A great restaurant for regional Italian food - an institution in East Melbourne. The staff are lovely and very helpful.
    More info
    Geppetto Trattoria$$$$• Italian• East Melbourne
    •
    4.9
  • Laurie
    Melbourne •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on May 20, 2026
    Pizza and pasta were exceptional and delicious. Quality drinks. Great desserts.
    More info
    Capitano Carlton$$$$• Italian• Carlton
    •
    4.8
  • Jessica
    Victoria •1 review
    4.0
    Dined on Apr 24, 2026
    The food was absolutely delicious—full of flavour and perfect portion sizes. Every dish was cooked perfectly, and the quality of the ingredients really stood out, making it an enjoyable and memorable dining experience. I have challenging dietary requirements (no onion and no garlic), which makes it extremely difficult to eat out - particularly Italian. It was no trouble for this restaurant, they were more than happy to accommodate.
    More info
    Funghi E Tartufo$$$$• Vegan• Melbourne CBD
    •
    4.5

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