Masani

A block away from the commotion of Lygon Street, Masani's large, warm, comfortable dining room oozes family hospitality with dad in the kitchen and daughter out the front. It would be hard not to enjoy settling in to the grand old dining room, with its high ceilings and chandeliers, for a big Italian feast. Pasta should definitely form part of a meal at Masani: maybe silky tortellini filled with shredded rabbit in a light sauce of peas and porcini, topped with yabbies; or large but surprisingly light spinach and ricotta-filled gnocchi with roast walnuts, nutmeg and an asiago sauce. From the oven, perhaps half a tender citrus-roasted Barossa Valley duck, with pears cooked in grappa, or a classic veal scaloppine with a knockout braise of sweetbreads and porcini. A grand finish of chocolate souffle is worth the wait. Sommelier Kara Maisano maintains an impressive wine list and delivers wine service with personality and charm.