La Vètta

The Verdict

Step out of the ever-swelling rush of the city and head out to Marnong Estate’s brand-new restaurant, La Vètta, less than an hour's drive from Melbourne. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Salvatore Giorgio, whose well-known (dare we say prolific) ventures include A25, +39 Pizzeria, Scopri and Bar Bambi, La Vètta has just opened its doors, allowing guests to enter a world of modern Italian cuisine amid the backdrop of the striking beauty of Victoria. 

The menu is informed by Chef Giorgio’s recent residency in regional Italy, and he has combined old-school techniques and heirloom recipes with neoteric flavours and ideas. The produce is locally sourced, with an emphasis on highlighting the simple yet strong flavours of the region. The wine list features estate wines, accompanying a lineup of Italian Aperitivi, liqueurs and Digestivos which have been produced in Australia. 

Menu offerings will include starters such as fresh Burrata with Sicilian Caponata, oysters that are shucked to order, and Wagyu Bresaola with lemon and Parmigiano Reggiano. For mains, there are listings like Paccheri di Gragnano with a braised lamb ragu, and ‘Ndunderi, a ricotta Gnocchi with pistachio pesto. More modern twists include their desserts, like a sweet Arancino, served with coconut milk, Nutella, raspberry and white chocolate. 

La Vètta, which means ‘The Summit’ in Italian, is appropriately set among the gorgeous Sunbury wine region, with rippling, picturesque views of the Macedon Ranges looming in the background. The main dining room will host up to 120 people, with space for 30 in the cocktail bar. The venue itself is in an elegant, modernised building, with walled windows to allow for plenty of natural light and a front seat to the scenic views, contrasted with the earth-toned space and ornate glassware.

La Vetta is the newest opening at Marnong Estate and is open now from Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner, head over here to book in.

Image credit: Gareth Sobey, La Vetta (supplied)