It’s always a delight to find a little piece of Italy in the very heart of Melbourne’s CBD.

Stellini Bar, a small and intimate Italian cafe owned by Frank Stella of Mess Hall fame, creates a unique, communal space for patrons searching for an authentic Italian dish. When the small cafe is full, it can be a challenge to manoeuvre, but that’s part of the charm.

Serving much loved Italian staples such as risotto, pasta and arancini, there are also a few nice surprises like the pork and fennel lasagne or the slow cooked shredded lamb with semolina.

Daily specials are written up on the white tiled wall and the front display cabinet features an array of fresh calzone and panini. There is a small and delicate sweet selection of pistachio and chocolate biscotti to wash down with a ristretto.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this cafe welcomes the suits, the shoppers and the strolling locals alike. Stellini can be easy to miss nestled among the boutique shops and apartment blocks, but there’s a gentle and consistent hum coming from this all-day eatery that will be sure to draw you in.