Rosa's Canteen is a perfect spot for a relaxed and high-quality eating. The simple food menu has been thoughtfully curated and doesn't complicate dishes, but executes them brilliantly. The highlight was the wine menu. Your usual popular old world wines coupled with absolutely stunning 'local' selection, highlighting the broad diversity of great producers and interesting grapes. I would recommend completely. If David is at front of house, you're in for a treat.
Hon Chan · 2026-01-27
I recently had a group booking at Rosa’s Canteen, and from start to finish, it was a fantastic experience. The restaurant has a cozy, modern vibe with views over leafy Little Bourke Street - it’s the kind of place that feels both relaxed and special.
We went with the set menu, and honestly, every single dish was a winner. My favourite was the roasted beetroot antipasti with squacquerone and mint pesto, but the broccoli pasta was a close second! The menu struck a beautiful balance of traditional Italian flavours, and you could tell everything was made with care.
What really made the night, though, was the staff. They were incredibly friendly, attentive, and accommodating. Nothing was too much trouble, and they made sure our group felt looked after the whole evening. It’s rare to find service that feels so genuine and warm.
Absolutely will be back! Had a great evening and meal.
Caro & Keith Napier · 2025-11-09
We ate here at 3 pm and it was empty. It was very difficult to find depending on which direction you are coming from. Situated upstairs, it is sharply decorated and airy.
The service was excellent, time taken to discuss wine choice, and explain the food menu. Menu options are small and limited if you do not eat meat. The food presentation was good, but the pasta with pumpkin sauce was chewy and not enjoyable 😒. My husband had the slow cooked beef, which started out delicious, but he found the 2nd piece tough and grizzly.
It may have been the time if the day and many reviews give it a 5 star 🌟 ( which is why i went there), but it did not float my taste buds.
Valerie D · 2025-07-27
Some of the best Italian I've had in Melbourne. I visited with collegaues for a work celebration and the service was impressive (every member of staff knew my boss's name). The restaurant has a lovely view into the tree canopy on Little Bourke St, making it feel like you're in a well designed tree house. The pasta was excellent, as were the desserts. I recommend the rigatoni with beef ragu.
Kit Williams · 2025-06-05
Pasta was ok but not worth the price (AUD35-40). Had the squid pasta with fish but there was fish scale found in the pasta sadly. And the fish did not tasted very fresh. Added broccoli as the side its AUD14 for only 3 pieces (the price is crazy).
S Chow · 2025-04-23