Outdoor dining

Owner-chef Eilish Maloney says she sees the same customers every day “because they don’t want to spend their money anywhere else”.

Astoria Bar Ke Grill opened quietly last spring, but is now coming into its own with a host of dips, stews and a hefty moussaka.

McCarrs on Mona Vale Road is an excellent place to sit by the fire and share pizza slices topped with pepperoni, honey and chilli.

Calle Bakery became so popular, it recently opened a second store in Northcote.

Gambino restaurant and rooftop bar brings tricksy Italian dishes and Big Night Out energy to the ’burbs.

Collingwood’s Thin Slizzy offers cheap pizzas, cocktails and pints on Wednesdays.

An Italian-inspired cafe by the siblings behind Via Porta.

The restaurant formerly known as Cutler and Co. switches from pricey degustation dining to a more casual format.

One of Melbourne’s most iconic spots for wood-fired pizza.

An Italian-Spanish deli serving filled focaccia, pintxos and more opposite South Melbourne Market.