Restaurants

30 Perth Italian Restaurants Worth Unbuckling Your Belt For

Written by:
Rebecca Keating
A bowl of pasta from Perth's best Italian restaurant

Who can blame us for this enduring love affair with Italian restaurants? These true maestros have deliciousness down to a fine art. And throughout winter those cravings only deepen, especially with every man and his dog posting about all their Euro summer adventures. 

Lucky for you, at Urban List, we’ve done the legwork and sorted the stayers from the players. You can say grazie mille to us later. Unbuckle your belt, these are the very best Italian restaurants in Perth.

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The Best Italian Restaurants In Perth At A Glance

  • Best Pasta: Lulu La Delizia
  • Best Italian Restaurant In Perth's CBD: Post
  • Best Italian Restaurant In Fremantle: Vin Populi
  • Best Old-School Italian Restaurant: Capri
  • Best Italian Restaurant For Dates: Mummucc

The Full List Of Perth's Best Italian Restaurants

Vin Populi

11 High St, Fremantle WA 6160

Saffron Tagliatelle with braised Ossobuco at Vin Populi
Image credit: Vin Populi | Instagram

From the crew behind No Mafia, Vin Populi is the kind of effortlessly cool Italian joint you wish you’d stumbled across in a hidden Roman laneway—but lucky for us, it’s right in the heart of Freo. The name translates to “wine for the people,” and that inclusive, breezy ethos flows through everything they do.

Whilst it might be hard to fathom sharing your pasta, I really think heading there with a group and sampling as much as possible is the best way to get around this restaurant. The menu changes regularly but there’s always a solid lineup of antipasti so you can start with ciabatta, olives and cold meats (they even have bresaola—a staple when I lived in Italy) before moving onto homemade pasta. If there’s a seafood tagliolini (like crab or lobster) on the specials, order it without hesitation—and larger dishes like a slow-roasted leg of meat round things out beautifully. For dessert? Tiramisu, affogato or those heavenly Italian donuts.

The 160-bottle wine list and sexy Italian cocktails seal the deal, as does the Euro-soaked fitout—no surprise this is one of Freo’s most Instagrammed spots. Whether you’re in heels or on a mission to chill out, Vin Populi welcomes all. Come as you are, they’ll bring the vino.

INSIDER INTEL
  • Expect to pay $6-$19 for antipasti, $34-$90 on mains and $11-$19 for dessert
  • The gluten-free pasta is superb
  • Vin Populi’s team say you can’t leave without trying the rigatoni amatriciana—an Italian classic, made with love and a beautiful fresh pasta or the potato agnolotti —hand rolled little pillows of pure love and joy.

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Lulu La Delizia

5/97 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco WA 6008

Lulu La Delizia's Marron pasta
Image credit: Lulu La Delizia | Instagram

If you’re serious about pasta, you’re probably already well acquainted with Lulu La Delizia. Tucked away just off Subiaco’s main drag, this intimate eatery and wine bar from Head Chef Joel Valvasori consistently ranks as one of the country’s best—and for good reason.

Specialising in the cuisine of Friuli and the Venetian spice route, Lulu pays homage to Valvasori’s Nonna, Luigia, whose culinary traditions inspired the restaurant’s name and soul. The team here doesn’t just make pasta—they worship it. Every element is carefully crafted to hero the dough itself, not just the sauce it’s dressed in. Expect expertly textured ribbons, shells and twists paired with subtle, balanced flavours that showcase real skill.

I still dream about the orecchiette with North West king prawns—it’s so obscenely moreish that my sister and I were practically holding back a fork duel over the last bite. Writing this is a not-so-subtle reminder that I need to go back.

With a beautifully curated wine list and a handful of small Friulano-inspired delights to round things out, Lulu La Delizia is as close to pasta perfection as it gets.

INSIDER INTEL
  • Expect to pay $18-$29 for smalls, $38-$50 for pasta and mains and $14-$19 for sweets 
  • If you like surprises, go the signature $95pp six-course shared banquet
  • ​Perfect for date nights

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Post

1 Cathedral Ave, Perth WA 6000

A bowl of pasta topped with cheese at Post
Image credit: Post | Instagram

Housed in the old franking room of Perth’s General Post Office, this elegant osteria within the State Buildings is a tribute to modern Italian dining—equal parts timeless and surprising.

Led by Executive Chef Lucas Fernandes, Post’s menu champions contemporary Italian cuisine with a deep respect for Western Australia’s seasonal bounty. Think silky house-made pastas, generous proteins, and fresh, flavour-first dishes that showcase restraint and refinement in all the right ways. Menus shift with the seasons, but dessert should always be on your radar—the tiramisu is genuinely exceptional.

The sommelier-curated wine list leans heavily into Italian varietals, with standout local drops that pair beautifully with every course. Whether you’re here for a long lunch, a romantic dinner, or just a killer negroni at the bar, there’s a considered elegance to everything Post does.

I brought my very special aunty here for a milestone birthday, followed by drinks hopping through the State Buildings—and honestly, it was one of the best days out I’ve had in Perth. Food, wine, ambience—immaculate.

INSIDER INTEL
  • Expect to pay $5-$24 on spuntini, $26-$29 on antipasti, $39-$54 on pasta and $42-$69 on mains or $89pp for the set menu
  • For a special occasion, choose the degustation with the chef’s signature dishes for $110pp
  • Post also dishes out a great breakfast combined with those dreamy surrounds—a next-level morning experience

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Tommasinos

609 Beaufort St, Mount Lawley WA 6050

cacio e pepe in a giant cheese wheel at Tommasinos
Image credit: Tommasinos | Instagram

Just off Beaufort Street, Tommasinos is serving up a little slice of Rome in the heart of Mount Lawley—and locals are absolutely here for it. The vibe is casual, the plates are elevated, and the pinsa? Game-changing.

If you’re yet to experience pinsa, it’s time. This Roman-style dough is lighter, crispier and way easier to digest than your standard pizza, thanks to a blend of premium Italian flours and a 72-hour proofing process. Toppings are no afterthought either, with a mix of top-shelf imports and exceptional local produce.

As much as the pinsa is the star, don’t skip the pasta. The Strangozzi Cacio e Pepe—served tableside from a flaming parmesan wheel—is iconic. It’s technically built for four, but I’ve personally witnessed a couple order it between the two of them, just to take the leftovers home. Respect.

INSIDER INTEL
  • Expect to pay $9–$28 for share plates, $22–$28 for pinsa, $26–$32 for pasta and $8–$14 for dessert
  • The tableside cacio e pepe serves 4 and will set you back $135
  • ​If you can face skipping tiramisu, stroll down to one of the nearby gelato shops—Messina and Chicho are both just down the road

Si Paradiso

1/446 Beaufort St, Highgate WA 6003

Si Paradiso Italian food
Image credit: Si Paradiso | Instagram

Part disco fever dream, part Italian osteria, Si Paradiso is where woodfired pizza, interesting Italian share plates and Negronis flow under fairy lights and Italo house beats. Step inside for a slick dinner of reimagined classics, or slide into the sunken outdoor amphitheatre and let the DJ set carry your evening into something much bigger.

Urban List Perth’s editor Danielle says it’s the coolest kid in Beaufort Street: “While you can dine inside and leave completely satisfied with your visit, outside is where the real action is happening. This is less courtyard and more miniature sunken amphitheatre hidden behind Mount Lawley shop fronts, like Perth's own little replica Colosseum, but with great live music. It’s giving Italian discotheque. Plus, the pizzas stack up to what you’ll find in Rome too.”

The vibe is sexy, surreal and slightly unhinged in the best way—just how General Manager Marcos Goncalves likes it: “We don’t follow rules or fit categories; we blur them… It’s a place to feel something real.”

The fermented pizza dough (72–96 hours, to be exact) is light, flavourful and made for those long dinners that spill into the night. And while the crab crespelle is a seasonal drop-in, it perfectly sums up Paradiso’s approach—classic Italian ideas built with epic West Aussie ingredients, and always, always good wine.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $5–$11 for snacks, $12–$32 for small plates, $30–$58 for large plates, $21–$28 for pizza, $12–$13 for sides and $15 for dessert
  • The Paradiso foccacia with cacio butter and charred eggplant dip is a must
  • Perfect for a birthday dinner and dance

​Read more

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La Madonna Nera

1/155 Scarborough Beach Rd, Mount Hawthorn WA 6016

La Madonna Nera Italian restaurant in Perth
Image credit: La Madonna Nera | Instagram

With its dimly lit charm and quietly confident kitchen, La Madonna Nera is one of Perth’s best-kept Italian secrets. Tucked into the Mount Hawthorn dining scene, this neighbourhood wine bar and piccola cucina serves up seasonal, produce-led plates and one of the most thoughtfully curated wine lists in the game.

While the menu rotates regularly (and yes, you will mourn a favourite when it disappears), you can always count on dishes that are clever and deeply satisfying. The goat ragu pappardelle is a must if it’s going, as are the gorgonzola arancini and anything involving their silky house-made ricotta. Add a few snacks—Ortiz anchovies, crostini with prawn and pickled radish, maybe some wagyu carpaccio—and you're off to a very good start.

Wines by the glass and cocktails are scrawled across a chalkboard, with options both familiar and obscure, and amaro flowing for those lingering late-night finishes. Whether you're popping in for a cheeky vino on your way home or settling in for the full ‘shut up and eat’ shared-style menu, La Madonna Nera nails that perfect blend of casual cool and serious culinary talent.

INSIDER INTEL
  • Expect to pay $5–$18 on snacks and $34–$48 on pasta or mains
  • On Sundays and Mondays they do a great value $30 pasta and wine deal
  • Perfect for a vibey mid-week wine for date night

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Testun Bar

12/760 Beaufort St, Mount Lawley WA 6050

Someone tucking into an Italian spread at Testun
Image credit: Testun Bar | @michael_tartaglia

Brought to you by the next-gen crew behind Threecoins & Sons, Testun is what happens when the kids take over the kitchen—and thank god they did. This neon-lit, rule-breaking neo-Italo bar in Mount Lawley is loud, cheeky and unapologetically creative, pushing the boundaries of traditional Italian with dishes that somehow balance chaos and finesse.

You’ll find focaccia with whipped Vegemite and maple butter, Big Mac-inspired mortadella skewers, and linguine tossed with Shark Bay prawns and yuzu butter. It sounds unhinged on paper, but every plate is beautifully executed, and genuinely delicious. Even Nonna might raise an eyebrow… then go back for seconds.

The drinks list is just as playful—expect seasonal sips, unexpected pairings and a vibe that always leans into fun over formality. Menus change often, so don’t get too attached. But with dishes this bold and booze this good, you’re in very safe hands.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $16–$30 on small shares, $38–$68 on large shares and $15–$18 on sides
  • Go all in with the shadappa and stuffa your face where the gang will look after you just like Nonna would, at $80pp
  • Perfect for a rowdy feed with your mates

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Nonna’s Pizzeria and Cucina

388 South Terrace, South Fremantle WA 6162

Image credit: Nonna's | Supplied

At Nonna’s, food isn’t just food—it’s the heritage, family and soulful simplicity of Italian cooking. Owned by Sardinian-born pizzaiolo Fausto Falchi, this charming South Freo spot brings a lifetime of knowledge and passion to every dish, from the first fold of pizza dough to the final swirl of ragu.

“We want people to feel like they’ve just stepped into Nonna’s house,” says Fausto. “Welcomed with open arms, surrounded by good company, good wine, and about to enjoy authentic food made with love.” And that’s exactly what it feels like here. The menu is tight, with Mediterranean influences and WA produce adding a fresh edge to traditional recipes. Pizza is at Nonna’s core, but the real showstopper? That slow-cooked mafaldine beef cheek ragu, simmered for 15 hours and finished with stracciatella—it’s the team’s favourite for a reason.

Italian was on the list for my sister’s recent birthday lunch and when we spotted the menu here, we knew it was a no-brainer. I started with the best-ever crumbed eggplant (cotoletta) complete with plate-licking sugo and straciatella. Do not skip this. And yep, the pizzas were as good as anything you'll get in Italy with a thin and crispy base, airy crust and beautiful toppings. For mains, it was a hard choice—I went with the decadent mushroom tagliatelle and every strand was coated in a rich and moreish sauce. I also, of course, tried the wagyu beef ragu (can confirm why the team love it), lasagne and meatballs. Honestly all were excellent. The only issue was that I stuffed myself so much I couldn't fit in tiramisu. I was raging. Total amateur.

INSIDER INTEL
  • Expect to pay $9–$15 for salumi, $6-$25 for antipasti/entrée, and $24–$32 for pizza and $31-$35 for pasta
  • Lasagne Tuesdays means a slab of that phenomenal dish with a glass of wine for $25
  • For a long lunch out, start or finish with a drink at La Cabana or Running with Thieves

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Cecchi’s

1000 Beaufort St, Bedford WA 6052

Cecchi's Italian antipasti
Image credit: Cecchi's | Instagram

After relocating just down the road, Cecchi’s has even more room to play, an even prettier fitout, and the same irresistible Italian flavours that made it a favourite in the first place.

The space is perfect for lingering long dinners with good wine and great company. Start with antipasti like their wildly addictive cacio e pepe arancini, panzanelle (that’s deep-fried pizza dough, in case you needed more incentive), or heirloom tomatoes with lush Le Delizia stracciatella. Then, move onto something heartier—like the handmade casarecce with traditional pork and beef ragu—and wrap it all up with a tiramisu ‘done the right way.’

For something a little earlier, drop in for aperitivo—the much-loved Italian tradition designed to ‘open’ your appetite. Running Tuesday to Thursday from 5–6pm and Friday to Saturday from 4–6pm, it’s the perfect excuse to ease into your evening with $10 spritzes, negronis and americanos, $8 prosecco and pizzas, and chef’s daily snacks designed to pair perfectly with that first sip.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $9–$25 for antipasti, $12–$14 on sides, $32–$38 on primi (pasta and risotto), $39–$49 on secondi (mains) and $23–$31 on pizza
  • Head in on Wednesday for $23 chilli mussels or $15–$18 pizzas, Thursdays for $25 casarecce, or bottomless lunch on Saturdays
  • Tuesdays are BYO with $10 corkage per bottle

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Capri

21 South Terrace, Fremantle WA 6160

Lasagne and spaghetti at Capri Italian restaurant
Image credit: Capri | Instagram

A true Fremantle institution, Capri has been dishing out honest, hearty Italian meals since the 1950s—and yes, they still serve complimentary soup and crusty bread with your main. That alone earns two ticks from us.

Owned and operated by the Pizzale family for four generations, this South Terrace mainstay began as a humble boarding house kitchen serving the local migrant community. Over the decades, it’s grown into something far more enduring: a beloved neighbourhood dining room where tradition, generosity and good food go hand in hand. The Capri is more than just a restaurant—it’s part of Freo’s cultural fabric.

The menu has evolved, but many of the original 1950s favourites still remain: chicken and spaghetti, tender calamari, scallopini, veal cutlets, and other old-school classics that never go out of style. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Capri welcomes you like family—with good food, big portions and a side of nostalgia that’s hard to beat.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $7.50–$20 for primi piatti, $21–$36 for pasta, $28–$35 for seafood mains, $29–$45 for meat mains, $3.50–$8 for sides
  • The spaghetti marinara is a standout
  • ​Kids 12 and under can pick from a $14 meal including a soup, main and ice cream

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Threecoins & Sons

2/776 Beaufort St, Mount Lawley WA 6050

a pasta dish at Threecoins & Sons
Image credit: Threecoins & Sons | Instagram

After a short renovation hiatus in 2023, Inglewood favourite Threecoins is still as good as ever. This fave family-run Italian eatery has had a little facelift but still keeps things delightfully retro with red-and-white tablecloths, warm service and the kind of classic Italian comfort food that fills both your plate and your soul.

This is the kind of place where you come hungry and leave rolling. The menu still features their renown baked pastas (thankfully), and there’s also a rotating selection of seasonal dishes and a banging lineup of Roman-style pinsas to get around. It’s hearty, homestyle fare with just the right amount of flair, dished up in a setting that always feels like a bustling family dinner—whether you’re a regular or walking in for the first time.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $9–$30 for antipasti, $23–$28 for pinsa, $34–$36 for pasta and $36+ for mains
  • The baked pastas changes with the season but is always incredible
  • ​A great spot for families

Read more

Ischia

500 Beaufort St, Highgate WA 6003

An Italian dish at Ischia in Highgate
Image credit: Ischia | Instagram

Right on the buzzing Beaufort Street strip, Ischia totally gets the brief for laidback, carby Italian done with heart. This family-run gem takes its name from the island off Naples, and the menu pays tribute with crowd-pleasers like pappardelle ragu, chilli mussels, veal cutlets and saucy gnocchi napoletana.

It’s also a cheese-lover’s paradise—think croquettes, gooey fondue, burrata-loaded salads and the absolute must-order burrata pizza. If you’re in a group (or just really hungry), level up with their signature pizza by the metre, complete with mix-and-match toppings along up to 180cm of house-made woodfired base.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $9–$44 for starters, $10–$26 for salads and sides, $16 for kids meals, $26–$38 for pasta, $30–$37 for mains, $22–$33 for pizzas and $6–$24 for dessert
  • Ischia does one of the best homemade lasagnes in Perth
  • Gluten-free friends will be happy with their own dedicated menu

Read more

Mummucc

46/56 Grantham St, Wembley WA 6014

Outside Italian wine bar, Mummucc
Image credit: Mummucc | Instagram

For a moody Italo wine bar with top-tier pasta and killer drops, Mummucc’ (pronounced ma-mooch) in Wembley should be at the top of your hit list. The short, ever-changing menu is made for sharing—perfect for grazing your way through plates like the standout Salsiccia Siciliana—a coarse Sicilian sausage grilled over charcoal and finished with lemon-pressed olive oil and native oregano. Owner James Stefanuto recommends pairing it with their house draft lager, Beppe—named after his Nonno—or a glass from the rotating list of Italian and Aussie wines.

I went here for my birthday after hearing nothing but excellent things non-stop, and I can confirm - it did not disappoint. Every plate was pure perfection, and I loved sharing to get maximum dishes to try. I will never forget the cuttlefish skewers we started with—tender, flavoursome and such a good start to set us up for what was to come. The pastas were all as delicious as each other and of course dessert totally hit the spot. This is a must-book. Stat.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $4–$16 for small bites from the deli, $10–$30 for share plates, $26–$30 for pasta and $5–$15 for dessert
  • Even though it’s not the OG owner, it’s stayed in the family and you can still order pizza from Monsterella next door
  • ​Perfect for date nights

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No Mafia

252 William St, Northbridge WA 6003

Italian food on the balcony at No Mafia
Image credit: No Mafia | Instagram

Northbridge wine bar No Mafia draws from the bold, simple flavours of Southern Italy and serves them up with a stellar lineup of wines and cocktails to match. The menu is small and seasonal, but there’s that one dish that never leaves: the duck pappardelle. Restaurant Manager Alice Carta says “it’s a rich, comforting plate of slow-cooked duck ragu served with our house-made pappardelle and a little touch of truffle oil on top. What makes it special is the way it's prepared, cooked low and slow to let the flavours develop, just like a dish you’d find on a Nonna’s table in Italy.”

As for the name? It was inspired by a powerful moment owners Emma and Dan experienced in Italy, watching locals protest the Mafia with handwritten “No Mafia” signs. That rebellious, community-first energy carries through every part of the venue—this is a place that champions authenticity, good food, and making memories with your people.

No Mafia want guests to feel like they’re having a meal with their family. “Comfortable, welcomed, and able to relax, it’s about sharing delicious food, having a laugh, and making memories. Whether it’s a casual dinner, date night, or a long lunch with friends, we want people to leave feeling full in every sense of the word: heart, belly and spirit.”

Insider intel
  • Expect to pay $6–$19 for antipasti, $29–36 for pasta and $13–$14 on sides
  • No Mafia's Front of House legend, Alice, says the Negroni is a must-try—simple, classic, and perfectly balanced, ideal for sipping as you settle into the evening as aperitivo or to enjoy on a night out with your friends
  • ​If there’s just two of you we suggest opting for a balcony seat so you can look out onto the street—what could be more European? 

Read more

La Sosta

1/85 Market St, Fremantle WA 6160

La Sosta Italian restaurant
Image credit: La Sosta | Instagram

Upstairs on Fremantle’s Market Street, La Sosta is the kind of spot you could easily miss if you didn’t know better—but what a tragedy that would be. Since 2012, this Italian diner has been turning out some of the silkiest handmade pasta and freshest seafood south of the river, alongside wood-fired bread, house-churned butter and family-style sauces made entirely from scratch.

In Italian, La Sosta means “stopover,” and there’s always a good reason to pause here. Whether you’re digging into their signature seafood pasta, eyeing off a beautifully cooked Angus steak, or just here for an entrée (we don’t judge) and a glass from their extensive wine list, everything is generous, flavourful and made with care.

The dining room is chic and quietly refined, service is proper Italian (in the best way), and the vibe feels just right for everything from a mid-week date night to a special celebration.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $21 for salumi, $15–$25 for antipasti, $16–$18 for sides, $36-$38 for pasta, $45–$50 for mains and $12–$17 for dessert
  • The crew also run private gnocchi masterclasses for groups of 10 or more
  • ​Ask for a table on the balcony for al fresco vibes

Read more

Garum

480 Hay St, Perth WA 6000

Garum Italian restaurant in Perth CBD
Image credit: Garum | Instagram

When Melbourne hospitality royalty Guy Grossi set his sights on Perth, we knew we were in for something special—and Garum more than delivers. Set within the grand heritage surrounds of Hibernian Place (The Westin), this sprawling Roman osteria brings ancient culinary tradition into a bold, modern light.

The menu pays homage to the food and philosophy of ancient Rome, blending age-old techniques with premium Western Australian produce. Think rustic handmade pastas, rich meats and sauces steeped in history but plated with finesse. Even the wine list nods to the past, inspired by Roman drinking culture and thoughtfully organised by colour and varietal. You’ll find plenty of Italian drops from the Lazio region alongside local WA favourites.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $15–$35 for antipasti, $35–$45 for pastas, $48+ for mains and $10–$16 for sides
  • The scallops with herb and almond crust are always welcome on our table
  • They also do a lovely aperitivo hour 4.30pm–6pm Monday to Saturday where you can score half-price drinks while enjoying some nibbles out in the lush little alfresco area

Read more

Spritz Spizzicheria

148 Scarborough Beach Rd, Mount Hawthorn WA 6016

Prosciutto at Spritz Spizzicheria
Image credit: Spritz Spizzechiaria | Nancy Hanna

If you’ve strolled past Spritz on a sunny (or any) weekend, you’ve likely spotted the line snaking down the street—Mount Hawthorn’s total non-secret delivers big Italian energy, minus the price tag.

At the centre of it all? Those iconic mini clotheslines draped with paper-thin prosciutto—equal parts delicious and delightfully OTT. The rest of the menu is just as playful, with generous portions of crowd-pleasing pastas, and perfect pizzas worth sharing over an Aperol (or three). It’s walk-in only, and the locals don’t mess around—so get in early or prepare to join the queue.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $18–$26 for pizza, $12–$28 for pasta and soup, $22–$30 for mains
  • The gnocchi is as good as you could possibly imagine
  • ​Perfect any night of the week

Read more

Santini Bar & Grill

 Level 1/133 Murray St, Perth WA 6000

A modern Italian feast at Santini Bar & Grill
Image credit: Santini Bar & Grill | Instagram

 

For Italian that’s bold, beautiful and a little bit boujee, Santini is where it’s at. Housed inside QT Perth, this moody inner-city stunner is all about elevated classics, local produce and a splash of theatre from the open kitchen.

The menu blends Mediterranean affair with West Aussie attitude—handmade linguine loaded with Blue Swimmer crab, crispy zucchini blossoms with chilli honey, and a hefty veal parmigiana that’s earned cult status. Feeling extra? The salt-crusted bistecca or pork tomahawk are made for sharing (and showing off). You absolutely must finish with the tableside tiramisu—because if dessert isn’t a performance, what’s the point?

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $12–$30 for antipasto, $14-22 for sides and salad, $30-$44 for pasta, $48–$185 for mains, $32–$39 for pizza and $14–$24 for dessert
  • The Santini Feasting Menu—chef’s kiss  
  • The squid ink risotto is Santini’s deserving signature dish, and we love that they dish it up tableside too

Read more

Acqua E Sale

391 Fitzgerald St, North Perth WA 6006

Hand braided Culurgiones at Acqua E Sale Italian Restaurant in PerthImage credit: Acqua E Sale | @inexology

I was so happy to hear about Acqua E Sale—finally, a slice of Sardinia in Perth. After an unforgettable three weeks eating my way around the island years ago, I still dream about pane carasau (so addictive) and culurgiones—those hand-braided pasta pockets stuffed with potato live rent-free in my heart.

This warm and welcoming spot in North Perth is all about celebrating the flavours of southern Italy, with a particular nod to the salty seas and rugged mountains of Sardinia. The name—Acqua e Sale, meaning water and salt—pays homage to the two foundational ingredients behind their traditional wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas.

Everything here is made with love and authenticity, and you can feel it from the moment you sit down. Whether it’s a seafood fregula, pillowy gnocchi, or the award-winning pizza, the flavours sing with that unmistakable Mediterranean soul. Come for the food, stay for the Sardinian hospitality.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $10–$28 on shares, $33–$37 on pasta and risotto, $19–$35 on pizza and $9–$22 on dessert
  • Go full Sardinian and order the seadas for dessert
  • Culurgiones, Linguine vongole with bottarga and Gnocchetti Sardi all need to be ordered

Read more

Monsterella

46 Grantham St, Wembley WA 6014

Monsterella pizzaImage credit: Montserella | @statedigital

Ask me where to get pizza in Perth and Monsterella is always on the list—killer crusts, top-tier toppings, and that laid-back neighbourhood style that makes you want to come back week after week.

Their handmade wood-fired pizzas are the real deal—naturally risen for 48 hours and topped with San Marzano tomato sauce. Whether you’re keeping it classic or loading up on with all the incredible ingredient, every slice hits just right. Beyond the pizza, you’ll find a gorgeous little selection of handmade pastas (the truffled pappardelle carbonara is a dream), meatballs, and street food bites like lamb skewers straight outta Abruzzo.

Fun fact: the name ‘Monsterella’ came from the owners’ daughter, who once thought all cheese was mozzarella and pronounced it like this—that’s the kind of wholesomeness the place still radiates.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $12-$18 for salads, $19–$27 for pizza and $26–$30 for pasta
  • This place is always busy so book ahead if you want to eat in
  • The housemade gluten free pizza bases are amazing

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alba

376/420 Wellington St, Perth WA 6000

Image credit: Shot by Thom | Supplied

Inside the multi-venue wonderland that is Stories at Yagan Square, alba is where modern Italian dining meets immersive experience. Named after the Piedmontese town famous for truffles and Barolo, alba serves up bold, produce-driven plates with a distinctly WA flare—all from an open kitchen that puts the chefs front and centre.

Start with crudo and garlic and herb pull-apart bread, then move onto prawn casarecce, charcoal-grilled rump cap or the spinach orecchiette with braised lamb and ricotta salata (an instant fave). The contemporary indoor-outdoor fit-out makes it just as perfect for a long lunch as it is for a luxe date night.

“Stories is layered, immersive and a little unexpected… the kind of experience you’ll want to tell your friends about (and return to again and again),” says General Manager, Sam Hoare—and we couldn’t agree more. Pre-game by the firepits at Front Yard, indulge in dinner at alba, then sneak into the hidden Fat Controller bar for a nightcap. A full round-the-world night out, all without leaving Yagan Square.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $8-$27 for antipasti and small plates, $24-$27 for seafood starters, $31–$37 for pasta, $33–$46 for mains, $12-$15 for sides and $14-$16 for dessert
  • General Manager Sam Hoare recommends the vodka rigatoni, or for something a little different, the porchetta paired with a glass of Antinori Peppoli Chianti from Tuscany
  • If you’re like us and can’t choose, do the share style feed me menu

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Lalla Rookh

77 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Zucchini fritti at Lalla Rookh Italian restaurant in Perth
Image credit: Lalla Rookh | Instagram

If you’re craving authentic Italian with a dose of elegance and a good splash of top-quality wine, head to Lalla Rookh—a super-sophisticated wine-store slash restaurant with sleek interiors and a drinks list longer than most young adult novels. Order a Tuscan wine from their enoteca and head to the eating room for a fresh modern Italian feast. 

Insider intel
  • Expect to pay $5–$16 for spuntino, $25–$30 for pizza, $12–$55 for small plates and $36–$130 for mains
  • Their six-course Il Capo menu will leave you utterly sated
  • Perfect for a post-work feed in the CBD

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Il Lido

88 Marine Parade, Cottesloe WA 6011

Il Lido in Perth
Image credit: Il Lido | Instagram

We couldn’t possibly wrap up this list without giving some love to Il Lido—the effortlessly cool seaside spot that’s been serving up Italian eats in Cottesloe for years. Housed in a former 1930s art-deco cabaret hall, this iconic beachfront venue blends history, hospitality and heavenly pasta in equal measure.

By day, grab a spot at the checkered tables out front, order a strong espresso or a bowl of silky pappardelle, and breathe in that salty sea breeze. Come nightfall, things shift to family-style feasting around long communal tables, with plates of house-made pasta, fresh seafood, and vibrant vegetable dishes made to share.

The menu changes regularly but always leans into seasonal WA produce with Italian flair—think Shark Bay scallops, risotto alla Milanese, or the kind of tiramisu you’ll be thinking about for days (it’s been two years for me, along with the most insanely delicious pistachio dessert). Pair it all with a glass (or bottle) from their Italian-led wine list and settle in for the kind of meal that lingers long after the sun goes down.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $9–$28 for antipasti, $36–$39 for past and risotto, $45–$48 for mains and $15–$16 for sides
  • The wine list is sensational
  • ​If you happen to visit on a Sunday, order the Mickey’s traditional lasagne for two or spaghetti allo scoglio (shellfish)

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Pizzaca Pizzeria And Bar

2/168 Scarborough Beach Rd, Scarborough WA 6019

Ricotta gnocchi at Pizzaca Pizzeria And Bar
Image credit: Pizzaca Pizzeria And Bar | Instagram

When a reliable neighbourhood locale that knows its way around a wood-fired oven and a wine list is on the cards, Pizzaca is the one. Just a few doors down from the original family-run pizza cafe, this licensed offshoot brings all the same warmth—now with a little extra pizzazz.

Start with the cheesy artichoke gratinato and wood-fired bread (trust us), then dive into a few bowls of their fresh, flavour-packed pasta. There’s a reason locals keep coming back—and yes, we’re still totally here for the pizza. Add a bottle of red into the mix and you’ve got yourself a low-key Italian night done right.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $9–$27 for starters, $17–$24 for salad, $28–$39 for pasta, $31-$39 for mains and $19–$34 for pizza
  • Start with a limoncello spritz
  • On Tuesday you can BYO wine 

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Casa

399 Oxford St, Mount Hawthorn WA 6016

Image credit: Casa | Instagram

Infused with the DNA of Si Paradiso, it’s no wonder Casa has cemented itself as a go-to in Perth’s dining and drinking scene. Part Italian-style wine bar, part neighbourhood restaurant, it leans more vino than ristorante—but with punchy snacks, handmade pasta, and some of the friendliest, most knowledgeable staff in town, it more than earns its place on this list.

Every wine is served from temperature-controlled fridges, so whether you’re sipping a crisp skin-contact orange or something bold and broody, it’s poured just as the winemaker intended. Urban List Contributor Madi swears by the focaccia—“I always, ALWAYS order this. Served with a pumpkin seed dip and pickled green tomato, it’s one of the best breads in Perth.” We’ve also got a soft spot for the rotating tuna crudo and a Casa martini, both personal picks from owner Cale Mason.

“Casa means home, and we want this to feel like yours—whether you’re stopping in for a quick drink and snack, picking up a takeaway bottle, or settling in for a full dinner party,” says Cale. Warm, welcoming and always wine-ready—Casa gets it right.

INSIDER INTEL

  • The chef's selection menu will set you back $75pp
  • They're also responsible for the pizza joint next door, where you can order bottles of wine at takeaway prices
  • Casa took out WA's Restaurant Of The Year in Gourmet Traveller's Restaurant Awards in 2024

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Coccodrillo Pizza & Vino

19 Station St, Cottesloe WA 6011

From the brains behind Leederville’s Pappagallo and Fremantle’s Dolce & Salato, Coccodrillo brings a suave trattoria to Cottesloe with a seriously good slice and an even better Negroni. Owner Nino La Verghetta has been championing traditional Italian flavours in Perth for over a decade, and this venue is no exception—just a little cheekier.

There’s two spaces: a buzzing pizza e vino dining room and a stunning Negroni bar just down the street that’s perfect for late-night snacks and cocktails. As for the pizza? The flour’s imported straight from Italy, the dough is fermented for up to 72 hours, and each one is fired at high temps for that perfect light, crisp bite. Expect classics alongside more gourmet numbers—like the 'Western Suburb' with roasted cauliflower, guanciale, smoked paprika and mustard sauce.

Beyond pizza, there’s a small but mighty menu of handmade pasta, pillowy gnocchi and traditional entrées, all served in a setting that feels like a modern Italian home. “We liken our venue to a traditional trattoria,” says Nino. “It’s all about quality ingredients and making people feel at home.”

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $8-$28 for entrée, $20-$30 for pizza, $28–$36 for primi (pasta), $34-$52 for secondi (mains) and $12-$14 for dessert
  • Nino says the dish everyone should try is the guazetto di pesce—made in a traditional clay pot imported from Abruzzo Region, it’s a traditional fish stew from Vastò, his home town situated on the Adriatic Sea (and Perth’s sister city)
  • Gluten free? You’ll love the fresh pasta made daily by Sal’s Pasta Deli

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Romulus

Shop 1/224 Carr Pl, Leederville WA 6007

Image credit: Romulus | Facebook

The forever-known Sayers site in Leederville has been reimagined—and it’s never looked (or tasted) better. Snapped up in 2024 by Roman-born hospitality pro Mirko Silvestri—who you’ll know from Mount Hawthorn’s LupoLab—Romulus is a slick Italian wine bar serving up sexy Mediterranean-leaning plates and vino in a space that oozes Euro summer charm.

At the helm of the kitchen is Amine Ennoura, whose culinary journey spans Morocco, Italy, Switzerland, New Zealand and now Perth. A MasterChef finalist in both Switzerland and the Middle East, Amine trained under Michelin-starred chefs and brings that same level of refinement and creativity to every plate. His food is bold, artisanal and deeply rooted in tradition, but never afraid to push boundaries.

Everything is made from scratch—from the pasta to the sauces to the cocktails—with a strong focus on supporting local growers and producers. Expect thoughtfully composed dishes designed to pair beautifully with the all-Italian wine list. Start with a glass and the Gorgonzola croquettes (with honey and walnut—buonissima), then let the menu guide your night from there. You’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your return.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $6-$22 for small plates, $27-$31 for pasta, $37–$55 for proteins and $11-$16 for dessert
  • When in season, you can treat yourself to freshly shaved black truffle over risotto, pappardelle or carbonara
  • Order the Tortina Fondente for dessert—70% dark chocolate fondant with molten center and vanilla gelato

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Maruzzella

71 Bennett St, East Perth WA 6004

If your idea of happiness involves carbs, cheese and a whole lot of Southern Italian flavour, Maruzzella will be your kind of place. This authentic spot is all about traditional recipes, belly-filling portions and warm, no-fuss hospitality—the way Italian dining should be.

The menu is stacked with classics done right: thin-crust pizza, comforting pasta, creamy risotto, fresh seafood and beautifully cooked meats. But if you’re a cheese fiend, you have to try the four cheese gnocchi—pillowy soft and swimming in a rich mascarpone, gorgonzola, provolone and cream sauce, finished with aged parmesan, sage, mushroom and truffle. It’s decadent in the best way.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $15-$27 for entrees, $22-$39 for pizza, $29-$39 for pasta, $35–$45+ for mains and $14-$16 for dessert
  • The set menu is $55pp and includes shared pizzas and a main each
  • Add burrata to your fettucine with pesto—because why not?

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Two Mad Tuscans

1/957 Beaufort St, Inglewood WA 6052

Image credit: Two Mad Tuscans | Facebook

When your friend with Italian Nonni swears by a place for the most proper, homestyle feed in town, you listen. According to Kirstie, Two Mad Tuscans is the place to go when you feel like you just need to pop back home—if your parents happened to be Tuscan food legends.

Owner-chef Andrea—born and raised in Tuscany to a Neapolitan family—brings five decades of family recipes to the table, dishing up legendary pizzas, pastas and comfort food that’s big on flavour and even bigger on heart. Everything is made with fresh, local produce, and the warm, old-fashioned (but great) hospitality seals the deal.

Kirst loves the pizzas and pastas, but for her, the standout has to be Edo’s 1kg chilli mussels swimming in rich tomato sugo with garlic and chilli, and served in a pizza dough bowl. Yes, you read that right. It’s rustic, indulgent, and absolutely unmissable. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a takeaway, Two Mad Tuscans delivers the kind of honest Italian cooking that hits straight in the feels.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $10-$39 for antipasti, $20-$31 for pizza, $28-$30 for pasta, $9-$14 for dessert
  • Thin crust not your style? Choose the thick base when ordering your pizza
  • It’s BYO—wahoo!

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Pappagallo

250 Oxford St, Leederville WA 6007

Image credit: Pappagallo | Facebook

Pappagallo always slays the Italian goods—and after all these years, it’s still absolutely pumping. This Leederville institution is known for its top-tier Roman-style pizza and crowd-pleasing pasta, all made with premium ingredients flown in straight from Italy. Think DOP-certified San Marzano tomatoes, La Delizia Latticini fior di latte, and prosciutto so delicate it practically melts.

The pizzas here are the real drawcard. My go-tos? The Vastese, with roasted eggplant and oozy mozzarella, or the Diavola, loaded with spicy salami and just the right amount of heat. But the love doesn’t stop at pizza—Pappagallo’s orecchiette with broccoli and Italian sausage is packed with flavour, and the mussels in white wine (especially when done in the woodfired oven) are next-level.

Founded by Nino La Verghetta and Sarina Tricoli, the team has long been on a mission to bring a true slice of Italy to Perth—and judging by the buzzing dining room every night of the week, they’ve well and truly nailed it.

Insider Intel
  • Expect to pay $7-$36 for starters, $22-$30 for pizza, $32-$42 for pasta, $36-$68 for mains and $9-$15 for dessert
  • The set menus work really well for groups
  • The lounge can be hired for functions

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Main image credit: Vin Populi | Instagram

Urban List Best Of: has our highest stamp of approval—curated lists of the very best recommendations for you to eat, do, see, buy or book, carefully chosen by our Editors.

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