Centonove

THIS is the definition of a hidden gem. Oh my God, we had such a fantastic dining experience here.
It was my sister’s birthday, and she is a complete foodie, and has been everywhere yet wanted Italian. Grossi, Cecconi’s etc were all off the list because she’d either been there or knew it, and I needed a surprise. Some searching brought up Centonove. It seemed odd, being where it is, but reviews/​driving past the place told me to go for it.
She had never heard of it when we got there, and it did not disappoint from start to finish. One of the best dining experiences I’d ever had in Melbourne.
Super friendly owners and staff who are there attending to your every need in a friendly and non-​intrusive way. Intimate brick walls and décor. Minimal but very homey and welcoming.
And the food and wine were all spectacular. Between us all we had a mixture of the duckling, ribeye, beetroot and feta, linguine special with clams, oysters, flounder, etc etc. Lots of excellent options food. The menu is small, but EVERYTHING was superb and spot on, and the wine list is huge, with knowledgeable staff to guide you through it objectively. As a result, we got to try a lot of new nice Italian wines we’d never heard of that matched the food perfectly.
This place is amazing. And I think its secret, is that its hidden away in Kew, away from the tourists and the regular crowds. I almost feel upset reviewing it and popularising it haha, but that’s what Unilocal is for! But the Kew locals know it about it, as does the Age who have voted it as one of their top restaurants 5 years running, and it was packed.
I’d also suggest sitting upstairs, it’s much more spacious, although downstairs where the bar is is cool too. There’s also a private wine room, but it seemed a bit claustrophobic in there.
Centonove IS certainly an expensive dining place. But if you’re looking for that type of night, either as a group, or just two people, this place is excellent. Unquestionably one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in Melbourne. Highly recommended.

Good italian food in a convivial atmosphere. Not too many good options in the Kew area, so this will be a repeat.