Scugnizzo

LOCATION
At the western end of the CBD near the corner of King Street and Little Bourke Street. A short walk from Southern Cross train station and easy access via tram.


PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Quietly sequestered in one of Melbourne’s many city laneways, Scugnizzo has been treating local office workers to its home-style, regional Italian fare and friendly hospitality since it opened in March. Scugnizzo (the affectionate nickname for Naples’ street urchins) embodies the warmth and mischievousness of a childhood spent in southern Italy. There’s a welcoming family feel here that instantly puts diners at ease. Its laneway position has the authentic ring of a true Italian trattoria, while inside the mood is more restrained and elegant, with white linen on the tables and deco-style lighting. The restaurant’s exposed red brick walls, colourful posters and framed black and white photographs create an atmosphere that lends itself just as well to casual lunches and after work dinners as to more formal special occasion dining.


Chef Carmine Carannante (Caffe e Cucina) has created a largely Neapolitan menu, offering simple homemade dishes which allow diners to taste the benefit of his extensive restaurant experience. Assagi (tastings) such as baked eggplant with buffalo mozzarella, parmesan, basil and Napoli sauce are redolent of the sun drenched land of the mezzogiorno, while the house-made pasta is produced fresh every day. Try osso buco ravioli with salsa verde, spaghetti baked in paper with tomato braised octopus or gnocchi with cream of broccoli and four cheeses. Mains include veal fillets with truffle cream and balsamic poached witlof or barramundi with marinated zucchini and a sauce of clams, tomatoes and shallots. Desserts cover the classics, featuring tiramisu, chocolate mousse and affogato. Several wines are available by the glass, and while the list of Australian and Italian bottles tends to be expensive, the range is soon to be expanded into a more comprehensive selection.

Angela Costanzo