Welcome!

The Caluzzi family from Centro Ristorante Italiano would like to thank our local clients for their continued custom and invite those new to the area to dine at the new home of Centro Ristorante Italiano.


Centro's position in South Melbourne means that it is within walking distance or just a short tram ride away. Dining out is one of the delights of inner city living and Centro's location means that you have what The Foodies Guide to Melbourne calls "one of our favourite places for good regional Italian food almost on your doorstep".

Emilia-Romagna, the birthplace of Pietro Caluzzi, provides the foundation for Centro's authentic yet modern Italian cuisine. Centro's reputation for great food has been established and confirmed by its patrons over many years. Luke Smith, the head chef, pays attention to creating sensational dishes from the freshest produce. Many of our clients will remember Luke who has returned to Centro after a stint as chef at a number of Melbourne's well known restaurants, including Caffe e Cucina, Centonove and The R Bar.

Combine the talent of Luke Smith and his kitchen with the warm welcome and knowledge of food and wine of Ruth Caluzzi and staff and you have an interpretation of Northern Italian cuisine which distinguishes Centro amongst Melbourne's restaurants.

What they're saying

"Unpretentious, northern Italian-inspired cuisine, an ambient setting, a short-but-well-considered wine list and classic, welcoming Mediterranean service are the reasons this family-run Italian restaurant has retained its place among Melbourne’s nostalgic favourites for almost 20 years."