Al Dente

Al Dente Al Dente is a vibrant restaurant located on Nicholson Street, offering a delightful dining experience that includes both lunch and dinner service throughout the week. Open for dinner on Mondays and Tuesdays starting at 5:30 PM, guests can enjoy lunch on Wednesdays through Fridays from 12 PM, while Saturdays feature all-day dining from midday. Al Dente’s menu highlights an array of Italian cuisine, with occasional offerings like the imported tartufo d'alba and delicious pasta dishes. The restaurant frequently engages with its patrons on social media, sharing updates about their culinary delights and promoting a lively atmosphere that embraces both Italian and English cultures in its dining experience.

Recent social media posts

09/08/2026

150 people are already coming… and we haven’t even started yet.

Saturday 12 September, we’re taking over Gertrude Grocer in Carlton for the first ever PROSCIUTTO FESTA.

One full day dedicated to one of the best prosciuttos in the world, Italian food, drinks and a lot of Italian charm.

And just for showing up, you could go home with a WHOLE PROSCIUTTO LEG or a PIZZA OVEN.

It’s completely free to attend.

150 people are already in.

Are you coming or not?

Register through the link in bio.

08/08/2026

One pasta dish saved us

02/08/2026

We’re sorry. Sorry for the decisions we’ve made since the beginning.

We could’ve done many things differently.

But we didn’t.

Sorry not sorry

30/07/2026

Why DON’T these apples turn brown? 🍎

We stopped people on the streets of Carlton to see if they knew why some apples stay fresh-looking for so much longer… and the answers were all over the place.

The real reason has nothing to do with preservatives or chemicals. It’s actually all in the way they’re naturally grown.

Drop your guess in the comments before watching to see if you got it right.

(Shoutout to the legends at bravoapples for proving nature can do some pretty incredible things.)

28/07/2026

Ever had a phone call come through at the worst possible time? 😅

In a busy kitchen, finding a quiet spot isn’t exactly easy…

Until now.

We’ve been using Thermomix in the Al Dente kitchen for years, and one of our favourite upgrades with the new TM7 is just how quiet it is. You can keep working without the constant noise you’d expect from a machine doing so much.

Sometimes it’s the small improvements that make the biggest difference in a professional kitchen.

Have you tried the new TM7 yet?

🎁 WIN a PiccoloPizzaOven + a whole leg of Prosciutto di Carpegna DOP Simply scan, register for FREE + attend to enter. L...
27/07/2026

🎁 WIN a PiccoloPizzaOven + a whole leg of Prosciutto di Carpegna DOP Simply scan, register for FREE + attend to enter. Link in bio 👆

Melbourne, this has never happened before.

The first edition of PROSCIUTTO FESTA 🇮🇹
📅 Saturday 12 September
📍 Gertrude Grocer, 144 Elgin St, Carlton
🎟 Free entry

Hand sliced Prosciutto di Carpegna DOP from Chef Andrea Vignali 🍴 Montegrande Prosecco 🍋 Tommy’s 🧀 Focaccia with Floridia Cheese | Italian Tradition, Aussie Made Fior di Latte & Provolone Valpadana DOP 🍞 Focaccia by Focaccia 🍰 Tiramisù by Mamma's Boy Trattoria + live music

Hosted by Gertrude Grocer — organised with Al Dente Enoteca × Mamma's Boy Trattoria

Prosciutto ItalianFestival FoodFestival

26/07/2026

Chef, quick question! What’s the difference between an Italian carbonara and an Australian carbonara?

26/07/2026

🎁 WIN a + a whole leg of Simply scan, register for FREE + attend to enter. Link in bio 👆

Melbourne, this has never happened before.

The first edition of PROSCIUTTO FESTA 🇮🇹
📅 Saturday 12 September
📍 Gertrude Grocer, 144 Elgin St, Carlton
🎟 Free entry

Hand sliced from MontegrandeProsecco 🍋 🧀 Focaccia with Fior di Latte & 🍞 Focaccia by 🍰 Tiramisù by + live music

Hosted by — organised with ×

Prosciutto ItalianFestival FoodFestival

25/07/2026

Is it possible to make balsamic vinegar without using a single grape?

Address

161 Nicholson Street, Carlton
Melbourne, VIC
3053

To reach your destination on Nicholson Street in Melbourne, you have a couple of convenient options for transportation:

**Public Transport:**

1. **Tram:**
- Take tram route 96 or 11 from the city center (e.g., Flinders Street Station).
- Alight at the stop closest to your destination on Nicholson Street.
- The trams run frequently, making this a convenient option.

2. **Train:**
- Catch a train to North Fitzroy Station or Merri Station on the South Morang line.
- From either station, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to Nicholson Street.

3. **Bus:**
- Several bus routes service the area; check local schedules for routes that stop near Nicholson Street.

**Driving/Parking:**

- If you're driving, head towards Nicholson Street via major roads such as Alexandra Parade or Lygon Street.
- There are street parking options available, but be mindful of parking restrictions and time limits.
- Alternatively, look for nearby parking garages which may offer more secure and longer-term options.

Make sure to check traffic conditions if you're driving, as peak hours can lead to delays. Enjoy your visit!

Opening Hours

Monday 5pm - 11pm
Tuesday 12pm - 3pm
5:30pm - 11pm
Wednesday 12pm - 3pm
5:30pm - 11pm
Thursday 12pm - 3pm
5:30pm - 11pm
Friday 12pm - 4pm
5:30pm - 12am
Saturday 12pm - 12am

Telephone

+61483800861

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Al Dente posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Al Dente:

Share

Category

What people say

Al Dente on Nicholson Street is a culinary gem that promises an unforgettable dining experience. With a menu that showcases the best of Italian cuisine, guests can indulge in a delightful array of dishes that highlight fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in their offerings, such as the exquisite Tortelloni Cacio e Pepe, which pairs beautifully with seasonal truffles when available.

The atmosphere at Al Dente is vibrant and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether you're stopping by for lunch during the week or enjoying dinner on the weekend, you'll find a diverse selection of pizzas and pastas that cater to all tastes.

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the carefully curated wine list that complements each dish perfectly, enhancing your dining experience. The staff's passion for food and hospitality shines through, ensuring that every visit feels special.

With its inviting ambiance and delectable menu options, Al Dente is truly a must-visit destination for anyone looking to savor authentic Italian flavors in Melbourne.