1. Grossi Florentino's Cellar Bar
Bourke Street stalwart the Cellar Bar is classic Melbourne at its best: outstanding hand-rolled pasta, a warming wine list, strong espresso and perfectly crafted cannoli. Come for comforting Italian food and old-time atmosphere when the rain comes down.
80 Bourke Street, Melbourne
2. City Wine Shop
City Wine Shop brings in the crowds for, naturally, its brilliant selection of wines, amply supported by a nourishing menu of soups, risotto, schnitzel and steak. Gather your friends together beneath the heaters at an outdoor table, defying the elements. Perfect for a pre- or post-theatre refuel.
159 Spring Street, Melbourne
3. Tipo 00
Pasta is the name of the game over winter, so you'll be winning with a sought-after table at Tipo 00. Come out of the cold for superlative squid ink taglione, braised rabbit parpadelle, and the playfully named Tipomisu – Tipo's modern revamp of Italy's classic tiramisu.
361 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne