๐Ÿด๐‘ช๐’–๐’„๐’Š๐’๐’†๐’•๐’•๐’‚ ๐‘ด๐’†๐’๐’ƒ ๐‘บ๐’๐’–๐’•๐’‰ ๐’€๐’‚๐’“๐’“๐’‚ - ๐‘ฐ๐’•๐’‚๐’๐’Š๐’‚๐’ ๐‘น๐’†๐’”๐’•๐’‚๐’–๐’“๐’‚๐’๐’• ๐‘ฌ๐’”๐’•. 2013 image

๐Ÿด๐‘ช๐’–๐’„๐’Š๐’๐’†๐’•๐’•๐’‚ ๐‘ด๐’†๐’๐’ƒ ๐‘บ๐’๐’–๐’•๐’‰ ๐’€๐’‚๐’“๐’“๐’‚ - ๐‘ฐ๐’•๐’‚๐’๐’Š๐’‚๐’ ๐‘น๐’†๐’”๐’•๐’‚๐’–๐’“๐’‚๐’๐’• ๐‘ฌ๐’”๐’•. 2013

Restaurant โ€ข Italian restaurant โ€ข Pasta shop โ€ข Italian grocery store โ€ข Northern italian restaurant

One of the Top rated Northern italian restaurants in Melbourne


Address

Unit 4/3 Murphy St, South Yarra VIC 3141, Australia

Website

cucinettamelb.com.au

Contact

+61 3 9942 2607

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (783 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 12 to 3โ€ฏPM, 5 to 10โ€ฏPM
  • Friday: (Good Friday), 12 to 10โ€ฏPM, Hours might differ
  • Saturday: 12 to 10โ€ฏPM
  • Sunday: (Easter), 12 to 10โ€ฏPM, Hours might differ
  • Monday: (Easter Monday), 12 to 3โ€ฏPM, 5 to 10โ€ฏPM, Hours might differ
  • Tuesday: 12 to 3โ€ฏPM, 5 to 10โ€ฏPM
  • Wednesday: 12 to 3โ€ฏPM, 5 to 10โ€ฏPM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: pasta (43) restaurant (41) Italian (35) service (34) delicious (28) cheese (23) staff (20) experience (19) great (17) intimate (17)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 1/5 Frankl Z. 1 year ago on Google
    Three courses 130aud Unpalatable and disgusting to my mouth. Fried squid rings: very poor It was like it had been fried and left outside for half an hour, the batter was poorly coated and many squid rings stuck together. Fried black truffle balls with cheese: available in many Italian restaurants, overpriced. The black truffle flavour was barely noticeable. Lobster pasta: 70aud, not badly seasoned, put a lobster shell as a garnish, very little lobster meat inside and it was all minced lobster meat. The cost was low. But thank goodness it was the only dish that was edible.(The ratio of lobster meat to pasta was still good as there wasn't much of either.) It was a 30 minute drive and what I expected and what I ate were completely different. This is the first time I have given an Italian restaurant a bad review and ruined my evening. The only thing I can commend is that the service was exceptionally good and I didn't argue about the food out of courtesy, I didn't want to ruin the evening for everyone in this restaurant. Note: The dishes were recommended by the wait staff and not my intention to pick on them. I could tell that the waiter didn't ask me how my food was when I paid the bill, and I think he could tell that I was having a hard time eating.
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Luis O. 5 years ago on Google
    It is a jewel no so hidden in South Yarra. They don't sell food, they sell a superb experience that involves food, wine, service and, of course, Italian. Small and cozy, with a new menu every week starting on Wednesday's makes this corner a real little Italy. The wine selection is good and they way the staff guides you on your selection is really enjoyable. Recommended? Completely!!! Go for a romantic dinner with your partner or just to have a good time with good friends....this place is perfect!
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 J P. 3 months ago on Google โ€ข 264 reviews New
    One of best pasta I've ever had - the lobster pasta was cooked perfectly and taste amazing. Service was friendly and attentive. Popular restaurant with the locals, so reservation is a must as the restaurant is small. Highly recommend this place for a nice night out ๐Ÿ

  • 5/5 Cate H. 4 years ago on Google
    Had a delightful meal here. Restaurant is very small but the food, drink and service were all excellent . It was a great experience but best of all the food was very yummy.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Anisa A. 2 years ago on Google
    The 29 cheese gnocchi was as one would expect: very cheesy, and very salty too. I love cheese and this dish definitely went above and beyond to satisfy my cravings, to the point where I was a little sick of it at the last few bites (but I finished it anyways!). The gnocchi itself was soft, plump, and chewy, and so was the bread roll given as an appetizer. The waiting staff was lovely and though the place is a bit small it's quite nice as it's naturally well lit.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Natarcha J. 2 years ago on Google
    Everything was perfect!! I went last night to see what the hype was about and safe to say this is one of my top 5 favourite dining experiences in Melbourne to date. My partner and I shared the burrata, we then had the gnocchi and aragosta for mains, followed by pannacotta and tiramisu for dessert. Service was amazing, the restaurant has a gorgeous romantic atmosphere, and the food is absolutely to die for. This was a beautiful experience and I can't wait to come back again soon, thank you for having us โค๏ธ
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Andrea A. 5 months ago on Google โ€ข 176 reviews
    Stepping into Cucinetta Melbourne is like being welcomed into a cozy Italian home kitchen. ๐Ÿก๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น The intimate and small setting exudes warmth, making every dining experience personal and comfortable. Despite its size, the flavors they deliver are immense! Each dish, meticulously crafted, carries the genuine heart of Italian cooking, from the robust sauces to the perfectly al dente pasta. ๐Ÿ˜‹๐Ÿ The authenticity doesn't just stop at the taste; it's in every detail, from the decor to the familial service. It's not just a meal; it's an exquisite journey to the very soul of Italy, right in Melbourne. A must-visit for anyone who adores real Italian cuisine! ๐Ÿ‘Œ๐Ÿท"

  • 5/5 Lil' K. 3 months ago on Google โ€ข 153 reviews New
    A small authentic Italian restaurant down a quiet street with ample parking. The food was delicious. Had the scallops and antipasto platter for entrees, then shared the lobster linguine. All dishes were divine. Finished the night with tiramisu, which was served in a glass, found to be too sweet and creamy for my liking. Overall, it was an awesome feed.

  • 1/5 Damian De S. 4 years ago on Google
    Bookd a table indoors and at the time of arrival was told that our table was outside eventhough there was a table available inside Would not recommend this place
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Alessandro A. 4 years ago on Google
    Such a fantastic place to go to. Great atmosphere, great Authentic Italian food and a nice. Thank you!
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 3/5 Edwar K. 2 years ago on Google
    Small intimate romantic Italian restaurant. We tried couple of the pasta and the antipasto. The antipasto had pretty good selections but we find that it didn't have enough of the cold cuts. Both pasta dishes are pretty average in terms of the taste. Both cooked al dente but the accompanying sauces didn't elevate the dishes. Service was a little cold and uptight for the price we are paying. Food - 7 Service - 5 Vibe - 9 Price - $$$$
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Pauline De P. 2 years ago on Google
    We couldn't fault anything at our visit to Cucinetta. We had to change the booking about 5 times due to Covid & other circumstances and had sent many emails re this, one of them being to ask for their dish (lobster pasta) to be available for a special dinner we were inviting our friends to and they remembered each time we communicated. The food is authentically Italian and the service was fantastic. This is like being in a tiny restaurant in some Italian side street. They even made a drinks reservation each time for us at a nearby bar and restaurant. This was our 2nd visit and we will definitely return
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Mashi_soyo 1 year ago on Google
    Cucinetta - Artisian Fettuccine โ€˜Cacio e Pepeโ€™ w/ Truffle $36.99 - Button Mushrooms in Taleggio Fondue w/ Crutons $26.99 - Homemade Gnocchi w/ Porcini Mushroom & Truffle Oil $35.99 A hidden Italian gem in South Yarra. We had the mushroom fondue as the starter. The taleggio sauce was absolutely flavoursome. It was a mouthful of joy to taste the earthiness and richness of the mushrooms and cheese with the crunchy breadcrumbs. The fettuccine was textbook perfect. That cheese and pepper sauce wasnโ€™t too heavy and it was finessed with a hint of truffle. Overall, a lovely Italian dinning experience. This is a super small and intimate restaurant. Remember to book in advance.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Hayley M. 1 year ago on Google
    Booked in for a lunch on the last day of the cheese wheel cacio e pepe dish- glad we did! Really tasty pasta dishes, totally full after. Wish we had been able to make a dinner as the wine list looked fab. Itโ€™s a tiny place but warm and efficient service (only counted 16 seats). Well worth booking into for a dinner date.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Bridget C. 1 year ago on Google
    I visited on a Sunday night at 7pm with a booking for two. The place is tiny so definitely book ahead. We went for the 29 cheese gnocchi event, so we ordered that and the fettuccine ai funghi (both $39.99). The cheesy gnocchi was awesome, the gnocchi was very well made and the cheese was delicious. The fettuccine ai funghi was also really nice. There was one server who was super friendly, so it was very personal. They provided complimentary bread rolls at the beginning and orancello shots at the end. Overall, I highly recommend visiting for some excellent quality food, especially during the 29 cheese gnocchi event.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Isaac J. 1 year ago on Google
    TOP SHELF PASTA. Yummiest risotto I've ever had. Caprese salad and Pepper Pasta were brilliant up. Flavour and freshness is unreal. (Note: cheese wheel pasta only at certain times so check dates online. It was disappointing because when searching "Cheese Wheel Pasta Melbourne" in Google Maps comes up with this restaurant alone. Which is picking up on the link to events at the venue but it's also not very clear.) Staff were very attentive and it was an absolute home run.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 maitry s. 1 year ago on Google
    Its named the tiniest italian restaurant In Melbourne and That justifies it perfectly. The food was beyond perfection. Finally witnessed what all the hype was about. Booked in for dinner for 2 people. Weโ€™d ordered fettuccine ai funghi and the risotto. The after taste of truffle oil was cherry on the cake. We asked the server to recommend the wine to go and Safe to say we were delighted by the choice. A little pricey compared to other places That Iโ€™ve been But definitely come again.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Jasmine N. 10 months ago on Google
    ORDERED: ๐Ÿ… Caprese (v): Buffalo mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil pesto ($19.90) ๐Ÿ Fettuccine Cacio e Pepe (v): Fresh fettuccine pasta with butter, black pepper, and parmesan cheese ($32.90) ๐Ÿ Tagliatelle al Ragu dello Chef: Fresh tagliatelle pasta with special ragu (ours was duck) ($34.90) ๐Ÿฅฆ Broccolini: Sauteed with garlic and chilli ($14.90) ๐Ÿฐโ€Š Cucinetta Tiramisu: Traditional homemade tiramisu ($17.90) Spent ~$62pp for two people. REVIEW: Let's start with the food: โœ”๏ธ The entree olive bread was delicious!! Especially served with balsamic and olive oil. โœ”๏ธ The fresh pasta we had for Cacio e Pepe and the Ragu dello Chef (duck) was delicious. It is one of the BEST pasta we've ever had.Great texture and really good flavour that helps bring out the sauce. Literally 5/5 worthy. โœ”๏ธ Particularly loved how the pepper and the cheese in the cacio e pepe came through really well. Great smoothness and flavoursome, and each bite was cut through with a perfect amount of sharp pepper. ๐Ÿง€ โœ–๏ธ Unfortunately, the broccolini was not it. For $14.90 and being served 5 pieces of broccolini... it doesn't look good with 5 thin stalks for ~$3 each. When it says it's sauteed with garlic and chilli, I was expecting more chilli flakes/ spicy taste. I could taste that it was steamed and lightly fried, and it had a garlic aromatic, but there was an opportunity to add more chilli and broccolini! โœ”๏ธ I liked the Caprese. Especially the delicious creamy and slightly sweet buffalo mozzarella. The alternating soft (red) and hard (green) tomatoes added some cool texture and kept the experience really exciting. โ˜บ๏ธ โž– Tiramisu was a decent way to finish. There was too much cream for me around the edges, until you made your way to the middle of cup where there was a good balance of lady fingers. Service was so speedy. โœ”๏ธ We got seated ASAP with a booking. Would highly recommend a booking, because we saw diners being turned away/referred to their sister restaurant. โœ”๏ธ The food came out so fast too! Especially from what looks like a small kitchen. Very impressed. We were in and out within 1 hour. ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ โœ–๏ธ Dislike how small the space was. My knee was touching my friend's leg all night ๐Ÿ˜‚. A little bit awkward. Also, it was very easy to overhear the personal conversation of the diners behind me.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 3/5 siavash g. 1 year ago on Google
    It is a little tiny itallian resturant and as they said it is the tinniest italian resturant in Melbourne. We were group of 8 people and had dinner here. The tables were super clean. The food was pretty avarage comparing to the price l. It is quite pricy and not saying the quality is bad but it is not outstanding. You don't get the wow experince as you are expecting. Ok I get it, it is sout yara and prices are high and they should get the most of it but 50 dollars for a tiny salmon with a bit of garnish is way over priced and not really worth the money. The scallop I ordered it was frozen for sure not just for the taste, but the middle of the scallop was frezzing cold. Not to mention the scallop served for free although we ordered it and they did forget about it and when we asked they brought a free one for us and I really appreciate this approach.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Gen Lumadilla .. 8 months ago on Google
    Dined here for lunch to celebrate my Mum's birthday and we had the best time. Firstly the service was outstanding, Thara gave us the VIP treatment, she explained the menu passionately that we wanted to order all from the lunch special.๐Ÿ˜ Second the 29 cheese gnocchi was to die for, delicious! The truffle risotto was to perfection and the steak which I had was served slicked and it wes the best! For the smallest restaurant in Melbourne it didn't disappoint. What you see on social media posts is what you would get when you dine in. Thank you so much for making my Mum's birthday memorable. Highly recommended.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 3/5 Rosie 5 months ago on Google
    Melbourne was a warm presence for me when I didn't come to this store because all the natives I met before were very friendly to me, they didn't mind my poor English and were always encouraging and helpful. First of all, I have to admit that the decor of the stores is interesting. But I also know, first-hand, the feeling of being discriminated against. That night I came here to eat by myself. It was raining, and when people wanted to go in, the waiter would help them open the door, but when I approached, I had an umbrella and a bag in my hand, so I couldn't open the door without help, and the waiter just stared at me. When I finally got inside after a lot of effort he wouldn't even remind me where to put the umbrella. When ordering there was another staff member to help me with my order and he wouldn't even give me the full menu, I did say I was there to eat but he just threw me a drink list and waited a while before he served me the menu. This one staff member would watch which people in the room finished their meal and would then go up and collect their plates. He would pretend not to see when I finished my meal and then when I reminded him, he would interrupt me and before I could even finish my sentence he would immediately turn me down and with a very fake smile say "Wait a minute". It made me feel very uncomfortable to eat this meal, everything was done without me being reminded and no one was there to help me. They always smile when they serve others, but when they serve me, they just ignore me and pretend they don't hear me. There was only one waitress who was genuine in her service.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 3/5 Houda G. 2 months ago on Google โ€ข 66 reviews New
    Cozy little Italian restaurant, good food and service. Now the reason I am only giving 3 stars is because we went for the special Parmesan cheese wheel pasta (as advertised) but was a little disappointed since they are using a Grana Padano wheel instead! Donโ€™t get me wrong, while Grana Padano is a good choice, we were looking forward that stronger, more complex, nuttier and saltier taste of Parmesan.

  • 5/5 Lena M. 3 months ago on Google โ€ข 64 reviews New
    The loveliest waitress! The tastiest food. An amazing lobster lunch. Possibly the best I have ever had! Fantastic cocktails and wine. An adorable venue in South Yarra. A tasty tiramisu, I think there should be more biscotti however with this dessert! I can barely taste the mascarpone and the Marsala with the biscotti! More biscotti!! I demand haha

  • 5/5 Ireview F. 4 months ago on Google โ€ข 14 reviews
    Seafood done perfectly, best scallops I've had. Simple and delicious flavours. Service was exceptional, so considerate to split portions for ease of consumption. Best limoncello, will have to pick up a bottle when available again!

  • 5/5 Lana M. 3 months ago on Google โ€ข 11 reviews New
    What a meal! Took mum here for her bday dinner as seafood pasta is her fav. We had so many seafood items to choose from and both loved our pastas. My dad enjoyed the best baramundi meal his ever had. Great little intimate spot, great service, will be recommending to friends

  • 5/5 Ezzat K. 4 months ago on Google โ€ข 9 reviews
    When I visit an Italian restaurant this is exactly what Iโ€™m looking for and expect when it comes to quality of food and service they really put there all into everything!! I love Cucinettas food so so much any the service honestly just radiates positively and makes you want to go back daily Definitely recommend their risottos itโ€™s absolutely amazing!! And their pastas always hit so different๐Ÿคค Love every dessert they have and definitely recommend the cheesecake and tiramisu especially!! Highlight of my night๐Ÿซถ๐Ÿป

  • 5/5 John B. 3 years ago on Google
    Always great service. Always great food.

  • 4/5 Abhinav B. 9 months ago on Google
    If you are looking for a intimate, cosy and unique dinner venue, this place is for you. There restaurant has only got space for roughly 15 people at any one time so make sure you book in advance. We came especially for the cheese wheel pasta and it did not disappoint! It was delicious and well portioned. We also got the ragu - equally as nice. Make sure you order their tiramisu, you wonโ€™t regret it. I was a little disappointed with the lady who greeted us saying we were 30 mins late to a 6pm booking when the email confirmation I had said 6:30 and we got there at 6:25. We were rushed through our dinner and service because the table was reserved for another diner at 8pm.

  • 5/5 Michelle L. 8 months ago on Google
    Super tiny Italian restaurant hidden away at South Yarra. We ordered cheese wheel pasta, truffle pasta and Arancini. One of the best pasta we had. They were so creamy and flavorful. Pasta was fresh. Definitely worth the trip.

  • 5/5 Amy 8 months ago on Google
    One of the smallest restaurants in Melbourne. The food was great, we got the 2 courses for $49 lunch set menu. Service was very attentive too. Sunday also has surcharge but thatโ€™s like most other restaurants. Would come back!

  • 4/5 Donald Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Food was super delicious, especially the limited time Roman cacio e pepe (they had it available in a gluten free penne version). But the waitress wasnโ€™t really into being there and forgot our orders once. One alcohol free beer on the menu, but it was available. Was super hot inside too (no AC) and tiny/crammed. Portions are reasonable, prices quite high, but still worth it overall.

  • 5/5 Ellen E. 1 year ago on Google
    We had the most wonderful dinner for two in this tiny restaurant in South Yarra. The staff are lovely, the food and wine was delicious and it feels like a real neighbourhood gem. We both had the Pasta with crayfish which was out of this world. When we are back in Melbourne we will definitely return. 11/10

  • 5/5 Rakesh M. 1 year ago on Google
    A quaint Italian restaurant with food that soothes the soul. What a wonderful 3 course. The salmon, the marinara and the gelato were as you would say 'mama mia'. And one of the best margaritas to complete our anniversary dinner

  • 5/5 Christine S. 3 years ago on Google
    Cozy little restaurant, with delicious Italian food, very hearty. Really nice ambience and the server was so warm and welcoming.

  • 5/5 Rhys E. 3 years ago on Google
    First date was at Cucinetta. Second date was our 1 year anniversary at Cucinetta. Cacio e pepe, what else needs to be said :)

  • 5/5 The G. 11 months ago on Google
    This resturant is very cute and the food is impressive. We loved the scallops. Calamari was tender and the beetroot carpaccio was delicious. The pasta and fish mains were excellent. The desert we tried with the coffee, icecream & liqueur was also good. For me there was one issue. Our waitress was engaging , and lovely. But it was my birthday dinner and she had said she would bring some lemon cello for us to try & she totally forgot. We had a great meal and loved it and we highly recommend and would go back

  • 5/5 Megan D. 4 years ago on Google
    What could you ask more than a delicious plate of homemade pasta? nothing. Here, I could really enjoy the perfect balance of the taste. The portion was awesome, the service just perfect, and with all its goodness, it really worth the price.

  • 5/5 Cindy C. 4 years ago on Google
    What could you ask more than a delicious plate of homemade pasta? nothing. Here, I could really enjoy the perfect balance of the taste. The portion was awesome, the service just perfect, and with all its goodness, it really worth the price.

  • 5/5 Lisa 2 years ago on Google
    Lovely little restaurant with a delicious authentic Italian menu. Waitress was amazing & very friendly.

  • 5/5 David G. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a fantastic dinner at this intimate restaurant โ€“ very friendly staff, the food was delicious, and the portions were just right. Looking forward to our next visit

  • 5/5 Bruno Di M. 4 years ago on Google
    Cozy little venue with excellent food and service. Carolina, one of the staff members, was lovely. Highly recommended.

  • 3/5 rasta j. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice, romantic venue, but food not exceptional unfortunately..service however was great.!

  • 4/5 Angela P. 4 years ago on Google
    Cute little restaurant, smaller than my kitchen at home! Food was good but a little on the expensive side. Staff extremely professional, polite and friendly. No printed menus as the menu changes each week. Good to experience.

  • 5/5 Lexi B. 11 months ago on Google
    Had a beautiful birthday lunch here at one of my local favorites. There was 16 of us all seated on one table and we had the whole place to ourselves! The staff were so attentive and kind, they were so flexible when it came to organising the lunch. The food was incredible and they were super generous individual portions! Everyone was raving about the food all evening! Would definitely recommend for a lovely intimate occasion ! Ambience was beautiful.

  • 5/5 phurbu s. 4 years ago on Google
    Great italian restaurant.

  • 5/5 Ryan H. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing little authentic Italian restaurant that is a hidden gem. Impeccable service and intimate atmosphere as many have already pointed out. Highly recommended.

  • 5/5 Wuttitorn O. 5 years ago on Google
    Great Italian atmosphere. Super friendly staff. Prices on higher end but worth it.

  • 5/5 Sophie L. 4 years ago on Google
    Authentic & tasty Italian food in a cozy atmosphere. Service was outstanding - professional yet relaxed. Whilst you only get a 2 hour seating period, the service is very efficient so this was no problem. Wait staff, especially the male one (Enrico or Erico?) was a real charm to the restaurant! The recommended wine pairings were divine too. Can't wait to be back.

  • 5/5 K Y. 9 months ago on Google
    A memorable experience at Cucinetta. From the friendly host / waitress to the creamy pasta dishes it was delightful evening in this warm and cosy restaurant. Service is almost too fast!

  • 5/5 Food L. 6 months ago on Google
    We have a wonderful Night, You canโ€™t define nor judge a perfect dining experience with a small spacious, this place is a remarkable. Everything is on point. Will recommend definitely.

  • 4/5 Lina 4 months ago on Google
    The food was great service was very attentive. The restaurant was a lot smaller than expected but it was nice and cozy. I really enjoyed their marinara and the tiramisu! ๐Ÿ‘Œ๐Ÿ‘Œ Will be back to try other dishes.

  • 5/5 Cyrus A. 5 years ago on Google
    Beautiful tiny restaurant. Photo is an example of how well they treat customers with the offer to half-half a meal in the kitchen so we didnโ€™t have to swap plates to share a meal. You feel like youโ€™re transported to a little kitchen in Italy, it is amazing!

  • 5/5 James W. 4 years ago on Google
    Authentic Italian in a beautiful setting. Fabulous chef in the kitchen and lovely waitresses serving the most delicious dishes with a fabulous Pinot Grigio

  • 5/5 Ruth t. 5 months ago on Google
    Loved the food and vibe. The Aragosta special is a MUST! We came back twice in the same week and it did not disappoint. Friendly staff Thara and amazing work from the chefs Joey and Ayush. Will be back soon โค๏ธ

  • 5/5 Dan K. 4 years ago on Google
    Such a great neighborhood gem. Perfect for a date or intimate group. Amazing food and excellent wines. A bit on the pricey side, but worth it when youโ€™re feeling flush.

  • 4/5 Rahaf A. 4 years ago on Google
    Taste is five star, portion is small, if youโ€™re really hungry or if this is your cheat meal, I wouldnโ€™t suggest to go there.. if you wanna feel fancy and have a really great pasta, then you should give it a visit.. the place is small which isnโ€™t a problem at all, coz itโ€™s cozy.. id suggest you call before you visit the restaurant. The waiters are beyond amazing, very helpful, and welcoming :)

  • 5/5 andreea S. 4 years ago on Google
    Oh man the pasta was phenomenal. I took my Mum for a lunch date for her birthday and we weren't disappointed. Such a treat. The staff are amazing and make the experience even better. Will absolutely return!

  • 5/5 Shaun E. 5 years ago on Google
    Great pasta & service. Very accommodating and entertaining for the kids. The wait staff puts the extra effort to make everyoneโ€™s dining experience personal.

  • 1/5 Anuschka R. 4 years ago on Google
    Got violent food poisoning from the truffle parmesan ravioli !! Ended up in hosptial. Speaks for itself.

  • 5/5 Grant B. 4 years ago on Google
    Exquisite Italian cuisine, along with first class service. Will definitely check this little gem out again in the near future.

  • 5/5 M. B. 4 years ago on Google
    Very good service and very good food!!

  • 5/5 Jamie D. 4 years ago on Google
    We visited Cucientta recently and it was absolutely brilliant. We booked in the day, and would recommend booking as the restaurant has limited covers, but the food was exceptional and our service from Enrico really made the occasion. He offered us brilliant advice about what to do in our time in Melbourne alongside his detailed knowledge of the food and drink available. Will defiantly visit again if we are lucky enough to be in the area in the future.

  • 5/5 Sam P. 4 years ago on Google
    Small but lovely

  • 5/5 James T. 4 years ago on Google
    Have been here twice now. Very intimate setting with amazing food! Will not disappoint

  • 5/5 Sonia G. 4 years ago on Google
    I've been wanting to come here for ages, but it's tiny and deservedly popular. The staff were delightful and smoothly manoeuvred around the tiny restaurant with practiced ease. The food was flavour packed, easily the best Italian pasta in Melbourne!!! We enjoyed Wagu Bresaola, Miso Frito, the Cacio E Pepe and the handmade Tagliatelle with Ragu. We asked for a recommendation on wine, enjoying a stunning bottle of white that we had never heard of before. OMG the Tiramisu. I want that recipe!!! It's light, beautiful coffee flavour with hints of chocolate!! We will be back to try more!!!! PS Rumour has it expansion into the old Cosi location on Toorak Rd is opening soon........ yay....

  • 5/5 Miles W. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent food and always a great experience.

  • 5/5 Nolan M. 4 years ago on Google
    Absolutely fantastic! Service is charming and playful, yet very attentive and professional at the same time. Food was all unreal - had fried seafood, two pastas, one salad, and one dessert. My recommended wine to pair with my pasta couldnโ€™t have been more perfect. Thanks guys! We canโ€™t wait to go back!

  • 4/5 Aaron E. 4 years ago on Google
    Really neat spot in East Melbourne. The menu changes weekly, so it was listed on the board. Service was acceptable. I felt like the prices were $8-$10 too high but otherwise it was a great experience and made me feel like I was in Italy.

  • 5/5 Jason Z. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place to have dinner~ Staff are friendly and very nice. Food is delicious. It cost us $120 for 2. A bit cosy though, as said 23 square maters with 8 tables.

  • 5/5 Manoj D. 4 years ago on Google
    Great little place to dine in. Authentic Italian cuisine in South Yarra. I had the pappardelle with ragu and my wife had the infamous cacio de peppe. It was divine. It's slightly on the pricey side but nevertheless absolutely worth it. It's a fantastic place to have a cute date.

  • 5/5 Noam O. 4 years ago on Google
    Always a pleasure

  • 5/5 Chris T. 4 years ago on Google
    My wife and I celebrated our wedding anniversary here. The restaurant is tiny and the space is a little cramped but yet it retains an intimate atmosphere - they have somehow arranged the tables so that you don't feel imposing or imposed on by the adjacent diners. The service is personal, friendly and lively. The food is delicious with authentic Italian flavours but using fresh, local ingredients. We had Wagyu brasaola and fritto misto for entree, and mushroom risotto and pappardelle with ragu sauce for mains. All were excellent. The pannacotta and cheesecake for dessert finished things off nicely. Prices are a little high for everyday dining, but for a special occasion I'd highly recommend it.

  • 5/5 Alberto M. 4 years ago on Google
    Very recommended place. We stayed here and we enjoyed the lunch. Pizza delicious. Will come back

  • 5/5 Jacob B. 4 years ago on Google
    Great place and amazing food!

  • 5/5 Ryan H. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful cosy spot up in the corner in a pretty street Had a lovely lunch, fresh ingredients , food was perfect, promtly looked after. Highly recommend if your in the area, great staff.

  • 5/5 dinesh k. 4 years ago on Google
    Super yummy healthy food and service in the melbourne ?

  • 3/5 Sue B. 2 years ago on Google
    Food was delicious and phenomenal. Limited entree selection, where we wanted to do three courses but there wasnโ€™t anything that stood out as something we wanted. Mains were different in it was difficult to choose because they all seemed like they would be delicious. Service was virtually non existent which was disappointing. For such a small intimate space I was expecting more from servers, but was less than Iโ€™d get in a basic cafe. It was almost at the stage where we wanted more drinks and food but we werenโ€™t checked on so decided to get dessert and drinks somewhere else. The most communication we had with our server was them telling us they needed the table in 2 minutes, after two other tables had been there longer than us and we had racked up an expensive bill. I honestly didnโ€™t expect the service to be as bad as it was that the guests I was with even commented on it as we left. It almost seemed that they gave more attention to the tables they expected more money from. Disappointing behaviour from the staff

  • 5/5 Pam B. 2 years ago on Google
    Cosy Italian restaurant. Great service. Delicious food. We so enjoyed our night. You should go visit. You wonโ€™t be disappointed.

  • 4/5 Anthony G. 2 years ago on Google
    Fine dining service with a very intimate atmosphere. Worth the booking deposit, you have excellent rustic sauces, delicately cooked seafood either in a main or pasta. The scallops were beautifully caramelised and subtly soft - melt in your mouth. The barramundi was so delicate with a vibrant sauce, it went well with your excellent wine choice. Compliments to their excellent knowledge of the wine. I would have given it 5 stars if it was Bronze Drawn slow dried pasta or if fresh pasta and if the ice-cream was better. But it was nicely al-dente the pasta. The ice cream in the affogato was icy and not that creamy as expected for the price. Maybe it melted and refroze in a certain part but my suggestion is to source something better or make it homemade ;) Look forward for another time to try your other dishes.

  • 2/5 Celine C. 4 years ago on Google
    We went here for our 7 year anniversary and was let down by overcooked seafood. Told the waiter who didn't know what to say

  • 5/5 Jen T. 3 years ago on Google
    Outstanding! We came in to try the 29 cheese gnocchi (limited) and it did not disappoint. Meal was heavy, flavorful, and extremely cheesy. We started with limoncello spritz and amaretto sours along with a shared charcuterie plate and scallops. Then on to the gnocchi, which we finished off with the salted caramel panna cotta. Can tell you now, you need to try that caramel sauce! Service was absolutely excellent.

  • 3/5 Jeffrie T. 2 years ago on Google
    Love the concept, warmth, personal approach, home dining all in 29 m2 of space, including the kitchen, and the vibrant waitress too. Corner location, floor to ceiling glass windows, sunny days in Autumn, perfect. I was looking forward to those pasta, after nearly a month of waiting for a weekday lunch reservation. We've ordered 4 dishes, the best was the gnocchi ragu $37.00, tad overcooked those gnocchi, but the ragu was just wholesome, next was the house specialty, the pasta cheese wheel (thank you for the extra truffle) $38.00 ... next is the Artisan Linguine $40.00, then ... last, sadly the saffron prawn Risotto $35.00, it was well made, glistening colour, but just too much salt, way too much, and yes they took it off the bill. YES to their wines, 29 of them, 1 m2 per wine served in a gigantic wine glasses, can be a bit congested on the table. Didn't order dessert, but that Tiramisu looks awesome and inviting.

  • 5/5 Claire 2 years ago on Google
    This place is a true gem. Itโ€™s our go to for special occasions with a lovely intimate setting and great service. The food is exceptional. Highly recommend (make sure you book ahead because itโ€™s a small restaurant!)

  • 5/5 Dani P. 2 years ago on Google
    Shared a wonderful lunch with two friends. Everything about the experience was great - the intimate environment, the attentive waitress, the superb red, the delicious truffle pasta... plus a delicate and mouth-watering tiramisu to end with. Well done, everyone at Cucinetta, I'll be back.

  • 1/5 Chamani De S. 4 years ago on Google
    Very disappointed with the service Don't recommend this place

  • 5/5 C S. 2 years ago on Google
    The best pasta I've had outside of Italy. We travelled from Geelong to try the cheese wheel pasta. While expensive, it was worth it. The cheese sauce was rich and smooth without being overpowering and in true Italian fashion the pasta was cooked very al dente. I added truffles, which is a mandatory addition to this upscale comfort food. Delicious. Make the trip, but book ahead. They only have nine tables.

  • 5/5 Charlotte Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Sooooo gooooooood! BEST BEST BEST gnocchi I have ever had!!!! Gotta buy a lottery ticket tonight, if I get rich, gotta buy this restaurant!!!!!!Elisa is so attentive and patient! Best BEST BEST birthday experience!! Love herrrrrrrr!!!

  • 5/5 Steven 4 years ago on Google
    Very nice pasta, very Italian

  • 5/5 Sonya T. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a cute intimate vibe! The staff are so friendly and attentive!! And our meal was divine! Will definitely go back! Just wish we were able to book in for the cheese pasta experience but its already booked out :( hopefully you bring it back for us to try!!! Keep up the amazing experience

  • 5/5 Pamela A. 2 years ago on Google
    Enjoyed and absolutely delightful dinner on Saturday night for my partners Birthday. A small hidden gem which took me back to when I went to Italy. The ambience, service and food - from entrรฉe to main and dessert was amazing! Although quite a small place, it is definitely worth it and would highly recommend you have a meal there. Thank you again to the the staff that made it an enjoyable and memorable experience.

  • 5/5 Greg W. 4 years ago on Google
    Superb authentic Italian food, nice n cosy, friendly atmosphere, great staff.

  • 5/5 David A. 4 years ago on Google
    Had dinner at Cucinetta last night. We've been wanting to try this place out since we stumbled across it last year, but have only just managed to line-up our diary and their availability. The first thing that struck me was that we could have been in any tiny restaurant anywhere in Italy. The guys have recreated the feel of an Italian eatery in every aspect from decor to music to menu and the sound of Italian being spoken across the restaurant. The second thing that struck me was how tiny the restaurant is. For me that added to the experience. I'm happy to be jammed in with everyone else with a communal vibe. The whole restaurant is 29 square meters (including what has to be the world's smallest kitchen. How the chef produces that food from that tiny kitchen is beyond me. We started with the Calamari and Oysters. Both were delicious. The Calamari was a very generous serving for an entree size. We washed entree down with a very delicious glass of rose and an Italian beer I hadn't tried before. For mains we had to try their signature 'cheese wheel' cacio e pepe - home made spaghetti, hot from the boiling water, swirled in a hollowed-out wheel of pecorino to absorb the cheese into the pasta, mixed with black pepper and truffle oil. We also ordered lamb cutlets. The lamb was delicious, beautifully cooked and another large serve. The pasta was absolutely sublime. We were so full we probably could have stopped eating before finishing the cacio e pepe, but that would have been criminal. Service was at it's best - professional, warm and with a good dose of Italian spirit. I'd have given these guys six out of five stars if I could've. Enjoy!

  • 5/5 Sam H. 4 years ago on Google
    This divine little piece of Italy in South Yarra is well worth a visit. The food we could not fault, the wine recommendation delicious, and the service second to none. Thank you Enrico! It is one of our favourite local eateries - perfect for a date night or an intimate lunch on the weekend.

  • 5/5 Julie M. 2 months ago on Google โ€ข 2 reviews New
    As a regular, I know the menu well, but this visit was to try the Cacio e Pepe cooked in the parmesan cheese wheel. It was absolutely delicious. We started with two of our favorites, calamari and caprese. A perfect evening.


Call +61 3 9942 2607 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • โœ“๏ธ Paid parking lot
    • โœ“๏ธ Plenty of parking
    • โœ“๏ธ Free street parking
  • Payments
    • โœ“๏ธ Debit cards
    • โœ“๏ธ Credit cards
    • โœ“๏ธ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • โœ“๏ธ Beer
    • โœ“๏ธ Wine
    • โœ“๏ธ Coffee
    • โœ“๏ธ Alcohol
    • โœ“๏ธ Cocktails
    • โœ“๏ธ Hard liquor
    • โœ“๏ธ Small plates
    • โœ“๏ธ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • โœ— Wheelchair accessible seating
    • โœ— Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • โœ— Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Dining options
    • โœ“๏ธ Lunch
    • โœ“๏ธ Dinner
    • โœ“๏ธ Dessert
    • โœ“๏ธ Seating
  • Service options
    • โœ“๏ธ Dine-in
    • โœ“๏ธ Takeout
    • โœ“๏ธ Delivery
    • โœ“๏ธ Outdoor seating

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