Kaprica

Descriptors such as “rustic” and “charming” are thrown around all too flippantly when describing traditional, home-style eateries. In the case of Kaprica, however, they’re both valid. It’s the kind of place where the menus are hand-written, and the wine gets sloshed into latte glasses.

In 2020, owner and chef Pietro Barbagallo (Barbagallo Trattoria, I Carusi) moved Kaprica from its original Lincoln Square site in Carlton to a more spacious home on Grattan Street, previously occupied by his now-closed Italian eatery, Mr Pietro.

While the location may have changed in recent years, the fact remains that you can’t go past the pizzas here. After watching the labour and love that goes into each and every one in the kitchen, you won’t want to, either. It's up there with Melbourne's best.

Any time of the day is good for a visit, with a couple of breakfast specials, some rustic Italian mains and heavenly looking desserts. The rustic approach extends to the space itself – it’s just as cosy as being at home, yet still tinged with enough theatre to ensure you have a good time.