Roccella

The Verdict

Nestled across from the Fitzroy Gardens is Roccella—East Melbourne’s all-day Italian eatery, backed by generations of family recipes. Fuelled by his Catania heritage, head chef Francesco Crifo brings over 20 years of experience, after residing in some of Iltaly’s most famed pizzerias and perfecting the foundations of each province’s pizza. 

Such expertise is seen in the intricacies of Roccella’s choice of four different 48-hour matured sourdough bases—a traditional,  lighter and crunchier ancient grain, as well as an activated charcoal dough and a gluten-free option. 

The menu is bolstered with ingredients from artisan farms in Victoria and New South Wales, such as Taralinga Estate’s award-winning extra-virgin olive oil, which prevails as the foundation of each dish. 

Roccella’s traditional roots drive the menu, without limiting it—a crowd favourite is Crifo’s elevated take on Australia’s hotly contested Hawaiian pizza. Its charcoal base is infused with the fermented juices of smoked pineapple, topped with Fior di Latte,  24-month-aged prosciutto, charred pineapple, and drizzled with balsamic vincotto glaze. 

Joining the extensive pizza menu are fresh home-made pasta, the quintessential pairing of cold-cut meats and cheeses, along with sharing plates like Nonna’s meatballs in cherry tomato sugo on creamy polenta. 

Open from 8am, Roccella doubles as an Italian deli, serving up coffee, daily sandwich specials, artisanal produce for takeaway, a gelato counter and a decadent cake display. 

The simply elegant interiors, neutral colour palette, natural light and views of the Fitzroy Gardens makes for a charming events space, with two purpose-built function rooms, catering up to 150 guests. 

Image credit: Roccella (supplied)