The Moat

The Moat The Moat is an Italian restaurant located in the basement of the State Library of Victoria in the heart of Melbourne. With a charming courtyard and indoor dining room surrounded by books and bluestone walls, The Moat offers an intimate and authentic European escape. Their menu reflects the Italian heritage of their owners, Paul and Rosie, featuring hand-made dishes made with seasonal local produce. The Moat also offers flexible spaces for private functions and hosts event nights celebrating creativity with wine, cocktails, and dining experiences.
(415)

Recent social media posts

19/08/2026

Decisions decisions…

Join us for our Happy Hour; cocktails, wines and beers

Book via the link in our bio.

Consider this your sign to stop scrolling and start making dinner plans. This one’s worth seeing for yourself. Book via ...
17/08/2026

Consider this your sign to stop scrolling and start making dinner plans.

This one’s worth seeing for yourself.

Book via the link in our bio.

Drinks poured. Dinner served. Weekend plans sorted.Meet us beneath the State Library for Italian food, cocktails and a t...
13/08/2026

Drinks poured. Dinner served. Weekend plans sorted.

Meet us beneath the State Library for Italian food, cocktails and a table worth lingering at.

Book your spot using the link in the bio.

12/08/2026

Before it reaches your table, it begins here.

Flour on the bench, fresh pasta rolled, shaped and cut in our kitchen. A little glimpse behind the scenes at The Moat, where art is still best done by hand.

Book your table through the link in our bio.

Hidden beneath the State Library: The Moat, Melbourne’s little pocket of Italy.Down a stair, surrounded by bluestone wal...
10/08/2026

Hidden beneath the State Library: The Moat, Melbourne’s little pocket of Italy.

Down a stair, surrounded by bluestone walls, candlelight and the quiet hum of the kitchen, dinner feels a world away from the city above.

Handmade pasta, Italian wine and great company.

12/06/2026
24/04/2026

22/04/2026

LunchSpecial CelebrateMum

03/02/2026

Valentines: book now

Address

176 Little Lonsdale Street
Melbourne, VIC
3000

To reach the Italian restaurant located on Little Lonsdale Street in Melbourne, you can either take public transportation or drive and park in the area. If you prefer public transportation, the closest train station is Melbourne Central Station, which is a short walk away from the restaurant. Alternatively, there are also several bus stops nearby that you can use to reach your destination. If you plan on driving to the restaurant, keep in mind that parking spots may be limited in this busy area of Melbourne. However, there are several paid parking lots available nearby where you can leave your car for a few hours while you enjoy your meal.

Opening Hours

Tuesday 4pm - 10pm
Wednesday 4pm - 10pm
Thursday 4pm - 10pm
Friday 4pm - 10pm
Saturday 4pm - 10pm

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What people say

The Moat is a charming Italian restaurant located in the heart of Melbourne's CBD. What sets this restaurant apart is its intimate and cozy atmosphere, which makes it perfect for a romantic dinner or a catch-up with friends. The restaurant is located in the basement of the State Library of Victoria, surrounded by books and bluestone walls, which adds to its unique charm.

The menu at The Moat reflects the Italian heritage of its owners, Paul and Rosie, and head chef Monica. All dishes are hand-made with seasonal local produce, simplicity, and love. This attention to detail is evident in every dish served at The Moat.

One of the highlights of dining at The Moat is their charming courtyard that allows for outdoor dining and drinking. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

In addition to their regular menu, The Moat also offers flexible spaces for private functions such as banquet meals or canape and cocktail events. They often host their own event nights that celebrate creativity with gorgeous wine, cocktails, and dining experiences.

Overall, The Moat is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an authentic Italian dining experience in Melbourne's CBD. With its intimate atmosphere, delicious food made with love and attention to detail, and charming courtyard setting, it's no wonder why this restaurant has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.