From the same group that brough us Hanoi Hannah and Firebird, Studio Amaro is a new Chapel Street Italian, with sleek interiors, smart service and an Italian menu to rival. It’s only been a few months since it opened, and already, it’s drawing a crowd of food loving Melbournians.
All dishes are designed to share, and there are several vego options including two pastas, several antipasti and sides.
The casarecce trapanese is short spiral pasta, made fresh. The sauce on this one is simple but delicious with blended sun-dried tomatoes and almonds.
The Rigatoni Arrabiata with wood fired chilli and stracciatella is equally more-ish. The saltiness of the cheese, with the richness of the tomato, make this such a flavour sensation.
The flat beans are like super long snowpeas – I’d never had this style of beans before. Slightly blackened, and flavoured with lemon and grated salted ricotta, even these were totally delicious.
As expected, there is a solid wine list with plenty of locals and Italians by the bottle, and a few by-the-glass options too.
There is also a basement bar serving food and drinks.
Overall, I’d recommend Studio Amaro for reliable, high quality Italian fare, and fun atmosphere. It can get busy, so best to book in advance.
Studio Amaro
168 Chapel Street
Windsor 3181
03 7046 0891
www.studioamaro.au
Opening hours:
Dining: Daily, from 12:00pm until late
Bar: Thursday to Saturday, 6:00pm until late