Tiamo has been serving pizza, pasta and coffee on Lygon Street for more than four decades. The super-popular family-run venture is cosy and comfortable, despite spilling over into the space next door and upstairs to a second level, making it the perfect spot for a big group affair. Grab a seat inside or out on the street and settle in for a classic Italian meal featuring antipasto, salads, pasta and simple (but delicious) pizzas. There is also a selection of mains available, all authentically Italian — think veal scallopine, osso buco and eggplant parmigiana. The clientele is a mixture of students, workers and northside locals after affordable, family-friendly eats. The fact that this Carlton restaurant is BYO (with an $8 corkage fee per bottle) is but the cherry on top. Images: Tracey Ah-kee
