Cicciolina

Those who really know Acland Street make a beeline for Cicciolina. Total St Kilda institution. Step past the unassuming front and straight into the Back Saloon—a cozy, moody haven built for chilly Melbourne nights. The vibe? Effortless *sprezzatura* paired with service so sharp and genuinely hospitable it feels like coming home. Melbourne’s seasoned diners always point straight to the pasta. Think impossibly rich gnocchi, or the absolute showstopper: house-made tagliatelle tossed with prawns, white zucchini, ponzu, and a bright hit of finger lime butter. Start with the house focaccia layered with stracciatella and anchovy, navigate a beautifully curated wine list with staff who actually know their vintages, and finish with a textbook tiramisu heavy on the mascarpone and coffee liqueur. A masterclass in longevity and flavor. *Buon appetito.*