Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Balaclava

DOC St Kilda, you absolute superstar! From the moment we walked in, it felt like we’d been teleported straight to Italy—but with a bonus beachside vibe. The pizzas? Oh, don’t even get me started. Thin, crispy, and topped with fresh, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The kind of pizza that makes you question why you’d ever eat anything else. And the burrata? Chef’s kiss! It’s basically a cloud of creamy deliciousness that had us fighting over the last bite. The staff? Legends. They were friendly, funny, and totally on point with their wine recs. It's like they just know what will make your night. Bonus points for making us feel like VIPs even though we were just there for a mid-week dinner. If you haven’t been to DOC St Kilda yet, stop what you’re doing and book a table. Seriously, your taste buds will thank you. Can’t wait to go back and do it all over again! 🍕✨

We had an early table at 5:45 upstairs. It’s a great room and we were sitting in the area between the kitchen and the bar which was quite narrow, but the staff were very attentive and watching always for anyone moving in that narrow section the restaurant had an amazing turnover of people. Which I would think was a testament to the good service and the good food lots of families having, a quick meal plus others who were grazing and enjoying the atmosphere. The fit out is really really wonderful. Everything was tiptop from the time we walked into the restaurant to the time we left. Nothing was too much trouble. The food was exemplary. we had oysters, fish and steak. The steak could’ve melted in my mouth like it was covered in butter, the oysters were incredible. The cheese platter was incredible. You know I have to say for a local restaurant. It’s a nine out of 10. We will be back at least 100 times thanks for looking after us Grazie.

This restaurant just gets it right. The service is great, food is exceptional and the venue outstanding.

Bottarga never disappoints. Somi and Federico are both so knowledgeable and always deliver amazing service, backed with amazing food. My partner and I love coming here to celebrate milestones together as the atmosphere is romantic. Their menu is always different, always new touches to the restaurant itself. Their business. is growing quickly, time to jump on board! If you're ever looking for a beautiful night out, Bottarga is the way to go. Such a hidden gem!! Thank you for looking after us all the time, see you next time! - Sam and Harry.

A wonderful experience as usual! Spectacular service and delicious food 🤩