At this tiny little espresso bar and restaurant on High Street you’re more than likely to be greeted by proprietor Marco Finanzio, before he explains that Umberto is named after his dad. It’s a welcome that really sets the scene for this local focused hide-away.

Inside, the dark-wood panelled space is lined by a long espresso bar down one wall, mirrored by intimate tables tucked along the other or nestled at the back. There is a cosy courtyard out the back too.

The menu is compact and beautifully executed, with pasta dishes that rival any Nona’s (like the broccoli and chilli penne). Specials of the day are chalked up on the walls- and make a note, they are special and when a dish is sold out for the night, then it’s gone.

Marco is proud of his family heritage- both Italian and Melbournian. His father, Umberto, moved to Thornbury 50 years ago from Calabria and the opening of an authentic Italian espresso bar has been a dream of this father/son team. The hearty home fare is complemented by a tidy list of Italian and Australian wines, and of course, beers. Coffee is Genovese- and considering Umberto has been in coffee for 30+ years, it’s gotta be a good choice.

A perfect place to drop in for coffee, dinner, cannoli or just a good old chat with the locals.