Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Malvern East

The food, the service, the ambience were all terrific. My one criticism was for the gin and tonic and vodka and tonic that we had to start. Neither of us could taste either alcohol and the tonic must have been from a gun as it had almost no fizz and tasted very flat. Disappointing in an otherwise terrific offering.

A great family night thoroughly enjoyed by everyone at the best Italian restaurant in Melbourne.

food was excellent. A chalkboard of wine options (? a dozen ) , but maybe could have some greater range of price.. not everyone wants to pay 20$ a glass. There is more wine out the back, but I felt the owner was a bit coy about the price till we had a taste..I suggest have a wine list..it takes no time to keep an updated list, or be upfront about the prices..maybe display bottles with the price in chalk.

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! 🍕✨

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.