Johnny, Vince and Sam's Ristorante
/Step into a world where comedy meets cuisine at Johnny, Vince and Sam's Ristorante, the latest sensation to grace Melbourne's culinary scene. Located on the iconic Lygon Street, this traditional Italian restaurant brings a taste of old-world charm, delectable Italian recipes, and a healthy dose of humour to the heart of the city.
Johnny, Vince and Sam's Ristorante is the brainchild of Australian-Italian brothers Joe and Carlo Salanitri, along with their close friend Andrew Manfre. These three comedians, famed for their uproarious 'ethnic dads' characters, have ventured into the realm of gastronomy, crafting an exceptional dining experience that captures the essence of a cozy Italian home.
Upon entering, you'll be greeted by an ambiance that transports you to a bygone era. Adorned with traditional Italian decor, including a prominent Last Supper print and a carpeted dining area, the restaurant exudes warmth and nostalgia, making it the perfect setting for a memorable meal. The dining experience here is authentically Italian, with pasta served straight from steaming pots and takeaway options thoughtfully packaged in classic Tupperware containers.
What truly sets Johnny, Vince and Sam's apart is the culinary wizardry of award-winning Italian Chef Johnny Di Francesco. Renowned for his authentic Italian cuisine and the title of Australia's Best Pizza, Johnny has collaborated with the Sooshi Mango team to curate a menu that seamlessly melds culinary excellence with a touch of humor. The menu, designed for sharing and designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia, features a delectable fusion of Italian classics and playfully named pizzas like "It's A' Bloody Hot" and "You like'a my salami eh" found in the "Farken Pizza" section, alongside Johnny Di Francesco's award-winning margherita. Other standout dishes include Pasta e Broccoli, a tribute to Nonna's cooking, Pesce Di Merlano Al Forno, and Cotolette.
Complementing the delectable fare is a drinks list infused with the signature Sooshi Mango charm. Alongside their eponymous wine, the cocktail selection boasts creations like the Limoncello Spritz, Wogified Bloody Mary, Tiramisu cocktail, and Blood Orange Sgroppino – each offering a playful twist on Italian classics.
To ensure a top-notch dining experience, Johnny, Vince and Sam's has enlisted the expertise of Melbourne's burger maestro, Dani Zeini of Royal Stacks. Their passion for this venture extends beyond their love for food; it's a heartfelt desire to contribute to the restoration of Lygon Street's Little Italy to its former glory.
While humor is their hallmark, Andrew Manfre emphasizes their unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional cuisine. Expect a dining experience that seamlessly blends the heartwarming nostalgia of Italian traditions with the laughter and humour that Sooshi Mango is renowned for. With a tantalizing menu, a charming ambiance, and a generous serving of comedy, this restaurant is poised to become a beloved gem in Melbourne's culinary landscape.
Location: 306-308 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053
Phone: (03) 9021 9995