Al Dente Enoteca Restaurant

Al Dente Enoteca sits on Nicholson Street in Carlton, the heart of Melbourne's Italian dining tradition just north of the CBD. A much-loved Italian restaurant and enoteca — wine bar — it's built a strong following with the warm, generous cooking and the great wine list that define genuine Italian dining, in a relaxed, convivial setting.

The appeal is that combination of authentic Italian fare, an enoteca's focus on good wine and a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely dinner, a romantic meal or a catch-up over food and wine. In an area with a deep Italian heritage and plenty of competition, building this kind of loyal following speaks to a place that does the classics genuinely well.

With a 4.8 rating from more than 700 reviews, it's clearly delighting its diners. Menus, wine lists, opening hours and pricing change with the seasons, and a popular Carlton restaurant fills up on weekends, so it's worth checking current details and booking directly before you go — particularly if you're after a table at a peak time, dining with a group, or planning a relaxed meal with wine.