Elio’s Place

THE VERDICT

Elio’s Place is where heart and hospitality meet; two siblings working hand in hand to open a European-style bistro—a nod to their late father—painting a deep affection for their Italian heritage.

Adam and Elisia Mariani have championed Melbourne hotspots before (Greta and Maverick), but this venture adopts something new, with an open-early and up-late attitude it’s suited for all, whether it’s a morning espresso, pre-show dinner or a cheeky late night supper you’re after. 

With a menu crafted from their Mariani roots you can expect house-made pasta and plates dedicated to the grill, alongside classic European snacks and desserts. 

With an extensive menu, keep your eyes peeled for their hero dishes—think beef carpaccio, with celery, shallots and a sprinkling of aged parmesan, or an entire flounder with burnt lemon and bottarga. 

Of course this bistro would not earn itself the European title without embracing the aperitivo custom, to its fullest, providing drinks and snack-sized plates from 3pm-5pm daily. 

If you’re not well-versed in classic Melbourne history, the iconic Flinders House has been standing since the early 1860s, starting its life as a rendered brick warehouse on bluestone footings, before being transformed into an Italian Renaissance Palazzo-style haven. 

Now, inside Elio’s Place there’s checkerboard floor tiles, with textured glass and timber table-tops, all wrapped up inside the caramel-coloured front bar and smoky blue tones of the dining area—see the European beauty for yourself. 

Get yourself a table over here.

Images: Elio's Place | Jana Langhorst
Words: Mika Gerrish

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