If you know your Gucci from your Gabbana and like your luxury Italian goods to be in season, head straight to the new Brunetti store and order a Gucci. Pizza that is.
Like the prodigal son, the Brunetti brand went out and conquered the world. Or at least Dubai, Singapore, Swanston St, Bourke St Mall and Camberwell.
They’ve returned to the fold with a flagship store at Lygon St. In the heart of Little Italy, their new digs are a big step up from humble beginnings as a cafe in the same spot back in 1974.
Like true trendsetters, Brunetti isn’t afraid of making history. They brought the babychino to Melbourne in the 90s and now they’ve got Gucci, Bulgari, Sophia Loren and Dolce Vita on the menu. The gourmet pizzas are topped with the best bocconcini, mozzarella and, in Sophia Loren’s case, a drizzle of Extra Virgin olive oil.
Skip the specialty ‘fried pizzas’ if you want to stay in your skinny jeans or at least make sure you save room for handmade almond biscotti, eye popping macarons and freshly churned gelato.
You’ll find the Italians standing at the bar – espresso in one hand, tiramisu macaron in the other.
Brunetti Caffé
380 Lygon Street, Carlton
T: (03) 9347 2801
4am – midnight daily