Moody lighting and tables for two? Tick. Sublime food and wine? Tick. Unique premise? Triple tick. Al Dente Enoteca is a sleek Italian restaurant in Carlton, but nothing at all like some of the tourist traps peppering parallel Lygon Street. Here, the dishes change with the seasons to focus on local produce and regionally inspired Italian flavours. Think panzerotti pomodoro with mozzarella and basil (aka the most epic take on a pizza pocket you’ll ever try) and juicy golden-fried olives stuffed with meat for starters. Highlights to follow could include smoked beef tartare with kipfler potatoes, mustard and capers; pappardelle with boar ragu, smoked daikon, candied walnuts and dark chocolate (yes, you read that right); and the crowd favourite since Al Dente’s inception: the tortellini cacio e pepe. The desserts are just as fantastical, so make sure you save room.
Whether you're planning to pop the big question, celebrate a wedding anniversary or simply treat your lover to a special night on the town, it pays to know which restaurants around Melbourne make the perfect romantic setting. We're talking excellent food and drink, winning service and sultry lighting that gets you in the mood for love.