Follow a perfect day at La Baia Bar Cucina — Melbourne’s hidden beachside Italian restaurant offering fresh seafood, authentic Italian food, and romantic waterfront dining just beyond the CBD.
When a Spontaneous Afternoon Turned into a Foodie Love Story
It started with a craving. Not just for Italian food, but for the kind of dining that feels like a getaway — comforting, slow, and scenic. A friend whispered the name La Baia Bar Cucina, calling it a new Italian restaurant in Melbourne tucked beside the bay. That was enough to make me curious.
One unhurried Sunday, I followed the sea breeze and ended up at a place that now lives rent-free in my heart.
Explore the La Baia story
First Impressions: Ocean Views, Soft Music, and That Familiar Aroma
The moment I stepped in, it felt like I’d left the city. With natural light bouncing off coastal interiors, calm music, and the scent of garlic and fresh herbs lingering in the air — this wasn’t just another Italian restaurant in Melbourne.
It was relaxed, airy, and surprisingly personal.
See what’s on the menu
The Main Event: A Symphony of Italian Flavours
I started with burrata and slow-roasted tomatoes — creamy, bright, and unexpectedly nostalgic. Then came the seafood linguine. Fresh, al dente, and kissed by the sea. It instantly became one of the most delicious Italian food experiences I’ve had in Melbourne.
Each dish felt like it was made with care — from someone who understands how food can bring joy. I wasn't surprised later to find out La Baia is gaining attention as one of Melbourne's best Italian restaurants.
Date Night Vibes Without Trying Too Hard
As the sun dipped lower, the lights softened, couples clinked glasses, and the vibe turned effortlessly romantic. If you’re looking for romantic date-night restaurants that balance elegance with warmth, La Baia quietly wins.
It’s now my go-to recommendation for anyone looking for Melbourne romantic restaurants that aren’t trying too hard to impress — because here, it’s genuine.
Make your next date night here
Beyond the Usual Dining Spots
You’ll find lots of answers to “Does Melbourne have a Little Italy?” — but I’d argue that La Baia is its own kind of Little Italy. It's not about tradition boxed in by expectation. It’s about feeling at home, eating by the water, and enjoying a moment that stays with you.
It’s also worth noting that La Baia is fast climbing the ranks of the top 10 Italian restaurants in Melbourne for good reason.
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Come Discover It for Yourself
Melbourne’s food scene is evolving. La Baia Bar Cucina offers something refreshing — a coastal Italian dining experience where time slows, flavours shine, and every meal feels like a short escape.
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