Caterina's Cucina E Bar

Simply amazing. The decor, the service, the food & the host. Open Monday to Fridays for lunch, they appeal to more then just the suits. This is Italian at it finest. Fully encouraged to embrace the long lunch, we did, We pretty much ate our way through the entrees, sharing as we went, and added a couple of specials too. Unfortunately that didn’t leave much room for mains, but we had the goat and weren’t disappointed. An extensive drinks menu, including some special Italian beers to try. Cannot wait to go back, thank you for a memorable lunch, a perfect way to celebrate our wedding anniversary.

Honestly!!! I am in awe🔥. Been to many restaurants so far that have amazing food but this place is just 1000 times above the rest! Their food is sublime and authentic however its the service that makes it better!! I haven’t met staff that’s this informed about every ingredient that goes in each dish. I am a pastry chef and Caterina’s is the epitome of what hospitality is and always should be. Thanks n I’ll be back soon.

This is the second time I have had the pleasure of dining at Caterinas. . The place itself is like a museum of eclectic pieces of art. Outside of Italy this is the only “real” Italian restaurant I have ever found. . Caterina herself is an excellent host and you can hear the passion she has for her art and her food in her voice. I could actually go to this place and get her to take me around to her art pieces and listen to the story of what they are and how she acquired them . Then there is the food , what can I say simply superb. I’m from Brisbane I come down regularly to visit my daughter , this will now be our place. If you have not had the pleasure of dining at Caterinas , do it soon. Oh yea , they only do lunch .

I understand the hype - Caterina’s is amazing. I went for a solo lunch the other day and enjoyed a glass of white, some sautéed green beans (which were delicious thanks to lemon and breadcrumbs) and an incredible vegetarian mezzaluna with walnut sauce. I ordered the starter size which was substantial enough for lunch (in my opinion). My only criticisms were that service was a bit slow which wouldn’t normally matter except that I was on a limited lunch break - all in, I was there for nearly 2 hours as I had to wait a bit to take my order. The bread complimentary bread roll I received was also pretty hard but maybe it was meant to be? Otherwise everything was great and I can’t wait to go back.

Hidden below ground level this restaurant is amazing. From the moment you enter you receive excellent service from knowledgeable staff. The tables are well spaced and you are spoiled for choice with the extensive menu. All our dishes were attractively presented and delicious - we can't wait to go back!

Forget about the hyped up Melbourne restaurants... this is the true Melbourne institution of Italian food. For those who have experienced the real soul of Italy, this a is place where you will rediscover it here in Australia. Caterina's soul emanates from every nook and cranny of the rustic dining room, which transports you to Italy for the afternoon. True Veneto cuisine served with an extra splash of love in every dish. A foodies delight, which is exceptional in every way. A special thanks to Caterina herself which shows us her heart every time we visit. Thank you for showing Melbourne what being Italian is all about.