Funghi e Tartufo

The Verdict

The team behind Osteria Italiana wanted to find out. Located on Hardware Lane in a converted 19th century warehouse. is Funghi e Tartufo, this 100% vegan restaurant–whose name means Mushrooms & Truffle, their signature dish–is inspired by traditional Sicilian food. Owner and chef Alessandra D’Angelo moved to Australia from Sicily back in 2009, and ever since she has been obsessed with recreating recipes from her hometown in plant-based form. "My vision was to create unique plant-based recipes respectful of the traditional taste of my country's best food. And I am satisfied with the result."

For mains try the vegan barramundi alla Messinese, a popular Sicilian dish of fish fillet in tomato, green olives and capers casserole served with toasted bread, or pesce spada alla siciliana–breadcrumb-grilled swordfish with EVO oil, lemon and mint Sicilian dressing served with grilled vegetables. If you haven’t sent yourself into a food coma yet, the dessert menu should bring joy–the cheesecake al cioccolato (chocolate layer on a crunchy hazelnut and cookie base, strawberry and whipped cream) and coppa nocciola (hazelnut gelato, chocolate liqueur with whipped cream and a sprinkle of caramelized hazelnut) are both solid options.

The impressive wine list features a bounty of drops from Italian winemakers, with the focus being on natural and organic varieties.

All of this suggests that Funghi e Tartufo will be a big player in Melbourne’s plant-based food scene for years to come.