Lagotto

We were in the area and made a last minute booking, restaurant was accommodating and managed to get us a table for 4 in the wine room. We opted for the chefs menu x 3, and we were stuffed by the end of the meal. Serving size was really generous and kitchen was so accommodating for one guest with dairy allergy providing a separate portion omitting dairy elements for some courses. Our two servers were warm, friendly and attentive and ambiance was relaxed. Highlighted was definitely the focaccia, even though served warm and not piping hot it was still one of the best we’ve ever had. The squid ink pasta with skull island prawns was another stand out dish, full of prawn flavour and topped with prawn (shell) dust for crunchy element. The rump cap was slightly on the tough side (though beautifully cooked) but the gorgeous sauce and extremely crispy potatoes made up for it. They kindly served us a celebratory sparkling when they heard we were pre-celebrating our anniversary (and a bday!). Will definitely be back!

Lagotto in Fitzroy North has quickly become one of my absolute favorite spots in Melbourne, and I genuinely love this place—it’s the kind of restaurant that makes you feel instantly at home while delivering some of the city’s most exciting Italian dining. Nestled at 1 York Street, Lagotto combines a bright, mid-century modern vibe with terrazzo floors, marble accents, timber details, and cozy burgundy banquettes. It’s got that perfect neighborhood energy: welcoming, vibrant, and unpretentious, yet polished enough for a special night out or a long lunch. The space flows beautifully from daytime café-deli vibes to evening wine bar mode, complete with an onsite bottle shop for curated Italian wines and spirits. The food is where Lagotto truly shines, led by Italian-born head chef Matteo Fulchiati. Their signature wholemeal focaccia with molasses and brown butter (or maple butter variations) is legendary—pillowy, caramelized, and downright addictive; many call it the best in Melbourne. Handmade pastas are masterful, with creative twists on classics: think squid ink pasta with Moreton Bay bug, lemon bigoli in vodka sauce with bottarga, or seasonal highlights that balance freshness and depth. Starters like potato bombolini with spanner crab or bluefin tuna crudo with strawberries and kefir showcase inventive yet respectful Italian-Australian flair. Mains and share plates emphasize quality ingredients without overcomplication—everything is flavorful, beautifully presented, and portioned for sharing. The wine list leans Italian with thoughtful local inclusions, cocktails are spot-on (negronis are a standout), and service is warm, professional, and genuinely hospitable. Whether it’s aperitivo hour or a Sunday “Wine with Friends” set menu, Lagotto nails that sense of conviviality. In a city overflowing with Italian options, Lagotto stands out as under-appreciated gem that’s consistently excellent. If you love soulful, modern Italian food in a relaxed yet stylish setting, this is a must-visit. I’ve been hooked since my first meal and keep returning—it’s pure joy every time.

Food was incredible, every dish we had was 10/10. Sharing lots of smaller plates and some larger mains is definitely the way to go as you’re able to get a bite of everything! Beef carpaccio was a highlight as well as Bug Pasta. Drinks were solid and house cocktails were a great way to start. Service was very good and our server was lovely from start to finish! Highly recommend sitting outside on a nice day.

Everything was absolutely amazing! The focaccia definitely lives up to the hype ✨The Murray cod was another standout: perfectly cooked, paired with a beautifully balanced sauce with a hint of citrus that elevated the whole dish 🍋❤️ The service was warm, welcoming and attentive throughout 🫶🏻 We were so full by the end 😊

Incredible meal while visiting Melbourne! We did the chefs tasting menu which was amazing! They let us swap out the pasta for the duck ragu lasagna which threw the meal over 5 stars. If you have a chance don't skip out on this restaurant!

We booked Lagotto for our anniversary dinner as we heard lots of positive reviews from family and friends. Unfortunately, we were very disappointed with the food. Entrees sounded great on menu, and the presentations were good, however the combinations of flavours were confusing, bites were too sweet and overall very underwhelming. Mains were even more disappointing. The steak portion was small and sauce was very over powering. The side of potatoes was an extra $16 which was mediorcre and came with a sweet? cream sauce. We heard so much about the squid ink pasta, however it lacked flavour and was extremely oily where we couldn’t finish it. One of the good things was that staff were lovely and very accommodating especially organising us a table although we booked bar seats. We were unsatisfied as we had high expectations from many great reviews. Also at the price point, we expected a better meal.

Lagott-a tell you my honest review. Staff there were super lovely and accommodating to one of our guest who was Vegan and Allium free, super informative with the menu and reassuring with what options they have for us. This place is viral with the content foodies but is it really worth it? We got their famous foccacia to start, the bread is giant, beautiful, super fluffy and I can tell has been made craftfully. But it was underwhelming for us as it was served cold, not fresh and just a tad greasy. If it was served hot and had a bit of a toasted crispiness, it would hands down be the best foccacia I’ve ever had. The brown butter definitely enhanced it, it was sweet and paired deliciously with the focaccia. We also ordered the wagyu tartare; it was umami, has some elevated crispy texture to it, however a little too salty. The kingfish crisp can be skipped, it wasn’t anything special. On to the mains, we got the squid ink prawn pipe rigate and erbette ricotta tortelli. The pipe rigate was pretty good, I think the pasta was flavourful but a little too al-dente. The ricotta tortelli was super creamy, bursts into your mouth and quite a flavour-rich dish, but it’s not a dish you’d be able to have a lot of. To pair with these pastas, we got the piper potatoes with ricotta and farm leaves salad. These were also just average and nothing to write home about. Overall, I don’t think the food was anything memorable. Nothing swept me off my feet, but nothing made me question my life’s purpose. It’s a beautiful neighbouring restaurant and I’m happy I’ve got to try and experience it for myself.

Such a great place for lunch or dinner in Melbourne! Service was really friendly and good. Oysters were amazing especially with their dressing. Even the bread was to die for… so soft and delicious! You also have to try the Moreton bay bug vodka pasta. It was so yummy. Everything we got to eat was definitely 5/5! Could not fault a thing and will always be coming here when I’m in Melbourne from now onwards.