Hobart’s new waterfront Italian restaurant an ode to classic romantic dining experiences

The owners of Hobart’s newest waterfront Italian offering are hoping to become a favourite among local diners, by bringing back the “fun and romance” of a good restaurant experience.

Shane Fell and Dino Mione, business partners of Fellini Restaurant, with executive chef Daniele Cavallucci from Rome. Fellini Restaurant has opened on the Hobart waterfront. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

The owners of Hobart’s newest Italian restaurant Fellini hope to bring the fun and romance back into dining, long after the meal is over.

Restaurant partners, former Sydney Swans player Shane Fell, and owner of Hobart’s Fellini Fashion, Dino Mione, say a focus on dining atmosphere and quality Italian cuisine will set the new MACq 01 waterfront eatery apart from the competitive restaurant scene.

Fellini Restaurant has opened on the Hobart waterfront. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“Our ‘why’ is to be the people’s favourite restaurant; I think that if you can be the favourite – it’s the best compliment you can get,” Mr Fell said.

“We want to introduce those Italian small bites and dishes from regions around Italy to show the other side of Italian food,” Mr Mione said.

And Fellini’s is sure to deliver a punch with its new menu, boasting 30-year veteran Italian chef Daniele Cavallucci, who is originally from Rome.

“I have travelled around Europe and America before settling in Australia 10 years ago and now I’m coming down to the beautiful Hobart,” he said.

“Fellini is a typical Italian menu and I’m very traditional about this, but also bringing different flavours from all regions of Italy to the menu.

Coccietto de Mare – Fisherman's Pot. Fellini Restaurant has opened on the Hobart waterfront. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“Everything is fresh, local and housemade – with our housemade pasta shining on the menu.”

A series of YouTube videos posted to social media documenting the fit-out of the new Hunter Street space was part of Mr Fell and Mr Mione’s idea to create awareness of Fellini and spread the word of its opening last Thursday.

“Our soft opening was a huge success, over 150 guests coming through the doors and led into Friday for our first service with a nice response from Hobart,” Mr Fell said.

“Dino and I are both present in the restaurant and together with Daniele – we are the brand.”

“People will get to experience our belief that food is not just a meal, but about all senses and the dining process,” Mr Mione said.