Inside a former courthouse, Ciao Cielo pairs elegant Italian dining with local Victorian produce, winter cocktails and neighbourhood charm.
Ciao Cielo was always somewhere I’d assumed was a casual, open-air pizza spot in Port Melbourne.
On this chilly winter evening, however, we stepped inside to what was once an old courthouse, and I was completely taken aback. With its high arched ceilings, open fireplace, original sandstone walls and stunning leadlight windows. The space feels both grand and welcoming.
The style and sophistication of the venue are undeniable. The dining room was filled with patrons who looked like they don’t waste their time on cheap wine or poor decisions, which is usually a very good sign.
This is everything you could want from a local restaurant.
We were greeted by the glamorous owner herself, who seated us and offered personal recommendations from the menu. I loved this touch. Her enthusiasm was infectious; it was clear she genuinely believed in the dishes she suggested.
I always appreciate a gentle nudge in the right direction from someone who knows the menu inside and out.
You can immediately tell that this restaurant was born from a genuine love of food. Every menu item, recipe, and house-made condiment feels considered and personal.
It’s seasonal, extensive and delves wholeheartedly into local Victorian produce with Italian classics and modern Italian coastal favourites like the Inked spaghetti Spanner crab.
Following the owner’s recommendation, we began with the new winter cocktail, The Cielo.
This Italian-inspired take on a classic Whisky Sour showcases another local powerhouse, Starward whisky. Smooth, balanced, and perfectly suited to a Melbourne winter, it was an excellent way to begin the evening.
The wines are handpicked from renowned wine regions around the world and delivers quality, character, and value in equal measure.
We enjoyed the fried zucchini flowers with pecorino and local honey.
The mushroom hand-stretched pizza, topped with mozzarella, mushrooms, truffle oil, and pecorino, was absolutely incredible and packed with flavour.
You can’t go wrong with the 750g Bistecca alla Fiorentina, perfectly cooked and ideal for sharing.
To finish, we shared a dessert crafted with their house-made limoncello, topped with rosemary and pistachio. Don’t skip this one — it’s the perfect way to round off an unforgettable meal.
Overall Rating ★★★★★ 5/5
Ciao Cielo is elegant, warm and quietly impressive, with polished service, standout seasonal dishes and one of Port Melbourne’s most atmospheric dining rooms.
