Overview
Get ready to say buona sera to Melbourne's latest Italian joint, Torino Aperitivo, a fresh Italian aperitivo bar tucked in the nooks of Driver Lane.
Brought to you by the team behind Beneath Driver Lane which just so happens to be next door, Torino Aperitivo rises from the ashes of old Penny Blue into a reimagining of the space where the negroni flows like water — literally. The bar boasts a fountain that serves up negronis and spritzes directly from its mouth. Looks like there is a God.
As for the space, picture enough white and green and brass to make you feel you're in Turin, with a laidback energy that's perfect for a catch-up with amici at all times of day. It's like your cool friend's house — if your friend was a rich bartender with a penchant for Italian decor.
Head Chef David Rios is the maestro behind the menu, dishing out Italian classics with a twist, and changing frequently to champion seasonal ingredients. Picture a selection of around a dozen piccolo plates, each a vignette of Italian life.
Of course, there will be Calabrian favourite warm 'nduja, focaccia with stracciatella, burrata topped with pangrattato and anchovy. While the mains include house-made pasta and 500g scotch fillets. And to sweeten the affair, brioche con gelato will take you straight to Sicilia with every bite.
Drinks-wise, Kealan Brady and Mark Brooks are the captains of the ship with a drinks menu designed to celebrate aperitif culture. Expect a curated wine list, spritz and negroni options, and a compact yet comprehensive cocktail and amaro offering. And of course, that negroni fountain. Bellissimo.
Torino Aperetivo is open 4pm–midnight on Tuesday–Thursday and 2pm–midnight on Friday and Saturday. Find it at 2 Driver Lane, Melbourne.