Bruno & Co

The Verdict

Lovers of Italian food (so, everyone...basically), we've got some good news. We’ve found a new spot to add to your carb-filled pasta list, and its name is Bruno & Co.

Opening up last year, Armadale locals are already swarming over brekky and lunch at this elegant little café-cum-restaurant. Think dishes like ‘Sunday Eggs’—poached eggs, chorizo, Napoli sauce, spinach, salsa verde, labne and chilli oil—or the classic avo' toast, spiced up with hempseed and oregano pesto, goats curd, poached eggs and burnt lime. Freaking NOM. 

And while the brunch is as delicious as it is Insta-worthy (see: very), we’re raving about their recent venture into dinners, available Friday and Saturday nights.

So what can you expect? Entrees range from arancini to Sydney Rock Oysters, but personally we don’t know why you’d possibly go past the calamari—served with Sicilian olives, capers, tomato, and lemon mint yoghurt, it’s one zesty dish to get your evening started. Alongside a solid Italian Prosecco, naturally.

For mains, don’t expect a massive range, but everything is damn delicious. The dishes change on the regular, depending on season and weather, but each night there’s a pasta, fish, and meat/poultry special available. It's a little like Da Noi in South Yarra—you never know what you're gonna get. 

Oh yeah, if you’re there when the swordfish linguine's on the menu, in all its buttery, herby glory, you’re in for a good night. Even more so if they’re dishing up the lamb shank with truffle mash. We’re still dreaming about that one.

And, as you’d expect from any self-respecting Italian joint, the tiramisu for dessert is a must. I know you think you’re full, but trust us—you’ve got room.

Image credit: Jenna Fahey-White