Vibrante Restaurant & Bar

Viva Vibrante! Friendly. Unpretentious. Delicious. That’s Vibrante in a nutshell. This Templestowe restaurant has been serving locals and visitors alike since 2009, and it continues to churn out tasty, modern Italian cuisine in a colourful — and usually boisterous — dining room. There’s an outdoor courtyard too that’s ideal for an afternoon or evening catch-up with friends. Dishes showcase fresh, local ingredients and the menu has a little something for everyone, including plenty of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. The garlic and herb focaccia is a popular starter, and there are heaps of gourmet pizzas that are sure to please. Try the tandoori pizza with chicken, chillies, onions, mushroom, tomato, mozzarella and mint yogurt. It’s an international take on an old Italian classic. Or, for the traditionalists out there, go for the Capricciosa with ham, mushroom, olives, tomato, mozzarella and anchovies. If the pizza doesn’t take your fancy, there’s pasta and risotto as well as Italian home-style meals such as a vegan baked capsicum or chicken parmigiana. Best dish: Veal Involtini (veal wrapped in prosciutto)