Just Open: Woody P, Melbourne

Woody P is a nuovo Italiano diner opening on May 26, with Clinton Camilleri, the chef behind hatted regional restaurant the Healesville Hotel, heading the kitchen.

Expect grilled octopus skewers with romesco and lemon cheek; rabbit sausages with mustard and pistachio; or a 48-hour beef rib. A selection of 10-inch pizzas is also available that includes the classic margherita and the classy porchetta, 'nduja and apple.

James Tait (formerly of Der Raum, the Black Pearl and Thomas Olive) is behind the bar mixing up classic negronis, spritzes and bellinis, and pouring a selection of top-notch grappa and Australian Italian varietal wines.

Local architects Eades and Bergman designed Woody P with carousing in mind. A casual dining space is at the fore of the venue, a lantern-lit courtyard at the rear, and space for 90 punters in between.

Ex-Stokehouse manager Brent Scales is on hand to ensure everyone is having a good time.

Open daily 11am-late; 121 Flinders Lane, Melbourne; woodyp.com.au