The owners behind Shop 225 in Coburg have taken over Il Caminetto in Moonee Ponds, bringing across their famed pizzas and large vegan and gluten free range. Unlike Shop 225, it has a fully-licensed bar, and although the food menu is slightly more refined, it still retains the authentic flavours that they’re so passionate about.

We begin with Polpette di Melanzane – a mixture of eggplant and breadcrumbs cooked in Napoli sauce – and a special of Moscardini al Vino Rosso. The baby octopus is braised in a rich red wine sauce, which is absorbed into the soft polenta surrounds it.

Also on the specials menu is the Black Taglioni Alla Pescatora. Calamari, prawns, scrampi, vongole, mussels and garlic is added to the pasta, which is al dente and particularly good with a sprinkling of chilli oil. As expected, the pizza is delicious. The Boscaiola comes with a topping of stracciatella, nduja, porcini mushroom, speck and fragrant truffle oil. The crust is puffy with a slight chew, and the base underneath the ingredients is thin but not soggy.

Can’t say no to gelato no matter the weather, and the Tartufo Pizzo Calabro satisfies. The well-balanced Tiramisu is a solid alternative choice.

The new Il Caminetto boasts a great Italian menu and a friendly atmosphere. It’s set to become a local favourite, and a destination for good pizza.

Disclaimer: I was invited to Il Caminetto as a guest, however, opinions expressed here are purely my own, and are based on my experience at the time.

Il Caminetto
114 Pascoe Vale Rd
Moonee Ponds, VIC, 3039
ilcaminetto.com.au
(03) 9370 6884