Help me Doctor!: Where can I take my father for his birthday? He likes Italian. – Huy L
Your prescription: Holy moly. My brain almost exploded when I received this question, as there are so many incredible Italian restaurants in this city. To make my task easier I’ve kept it to CBD venues, but let me know if you have a specific locale in mind.
Grossi Florentino- A classic. The grill and cellar bar are stylish and casual, upstairs is starched linen tablecloths serving fine dining. 80 Bourke Street +61 3 9662 1811
Italy 1 – One of my favourites. An intimate space with consistently well-prepared dishes. 27 George Pde +61 3 9654 4430
Il Bacaro – Dark, moody decor, very sexy food. 168 Lt Collins St Melbourne +61 3 9654 6778
Bottega - Without actively realising it, I’ve always picked it as the destination for the first meet-the-parents assignation. Maybe because of the calming sleek interior and delicious but non-threatening menu. 74 Bourke St, Melbourne +61 3 9654 2252
The Italian- Heard good things about his restaurant from RM, but not been there personally. Level 6, 101 Collins St +61 3 9654 9499
Becco is frequently touted as the best fine-dining Italian restaurant in Melbourne, but frankly I was disappointed when I went. Food was delicious, yes, but value for money? No.
My final word of advice; avoid Pellegrinis and The Waiters Club at all costs (not that they’re really birthday celebration kind of venues). I know these places are iconic, but their food is terrible – we’re talking the kind of red-sauce slop that was acceptable in the 50s, but should no longer be served to Melburnians’ well-travelled, sophisticated and discerning palates. If you don’t believe me, my Italian friend Amanda backs me up on this! – Jetsetting Joyce
Well, I don’t see an immediate trip to Melbourne in my future, but I’ll be sure to check it out with you should I find myself heading that way.
Hi Maureen
Wow I’m impressed that MEL: HOT OR NOT has made it to Annapolis, USA! I like your site, what are you cooking at the moment? I am working my way through ‘Food of China’ as I actually don’t have any real idea as to how to cook Chinese food despite being Chinese. So far I’ve had success with glutinous rice wrapped in lotus leaves and dumplings, less success with barbecue pork buns (that dough is really hard).
By the way, I note that you’re an ESTJ – me too! Clearly we are meant to be eating buddies, let me know if you ever visit Melbourne!
Jetsetting Joyce