La Moka

You’re in for some true Italian hospitality from Manuel Francesconi. The owner of La Moka is all too happy to serve you classic Italian treats such as zeppole (doughnuts), caprese salad, lasagne and minestrone in the hope of transporting you from Peel Street to Pisa.

Moka pots, the Italian stovetop coffee makers, bubble away behind the counter with the help of beans from Segafredo, while the San Marco Leva espresso machine completes the coffee-making inventory. And with your caffeine always comes a side of biscotti.

After hours, La Moka transforms into an aperitif bar serving Negronis, Bellinis and espresso Martinis, as well as a small range of Italian wines, beers and Adelaide Hills cider.

To accompany your drinks and soak up the Peel Street vibe from the street-side seats there’s a classic mix of charcuterie, cheese, fruit and olives. Cheese platters can be customised with a choice of French, Spanish, Italian and Australian options that change frequently, but the baked Camembert is always a favourite.

Settle in – La Moka has a friendly atmosphere that can make even the most dedicated Australian blurt out “grazie” when their zeppole arrives.