Si Paradiso

Overview

Si Paradiso is a cluster of contradictions that somehow works. The laidback Italian trattoria is a bar, restaurant and dance club all rolled into one.

Step into the dining room, and you'll feel like you've walked back in time with its retro fit-out, laminate, dim globe lights and terrazzo tables. Head outside to spend an arvo in the sun-splashed amphitheatre courtyard enjoying some cocktails and the venue's 96-hour-fermented woodfired pizzas under the cover of the striped parasols — evoking visions of the Amalfi Coast.

Pizza is the real star of the menu, but there are other sharing alternatives like freshly shucked Smoky Bay oysters, charcoal spiedini (either lamb or squid), lobster and prawn tramezzini with tomato mostarda and caviar and beef short rib with yuzu kosho and umeboshi.

The wine list features many natural wine producers from here in Australia, as well as some European numbers. The cocktail list includes monthly specials and one-offs, both for classic cocktails and house creations. For something a little different, go for a Saison Fallen Quinces — a handmade Melbourne vermouth served on ice with soda and a pineapple flower. There is also a selection of beers and cider on tap, as well as non-alcoholic faux-tails.

When the sun goes down, the good vibes are amped up courtesy of live music acts or DJs. For real club vibes, you can dance the night away with your mates under the stars or in the nightclub downstairs.