Grossi Florentino, restaurant in Melbourne, Australia
Grossi Florentino is an Italian restaurant in a heritage building on Bourke Street that spans three sections: the main dining room, a grill room, and a cellar bar. Each section offers distinct Italian dining experiences with its own character and style.
The establishment started as a wine shop in 1918 before Rinaldo Massoni transformed it into an Italian restaurant in 1928. This shift marked the beginning of a long tradition as a major Italian dining destination in Melbourne.
The Mural Room displays large-scale artworks depicting Florence scenes and Renaissance figures from different periods of Italian art. The decoration reflects the Italian heritage that has shaped this establishment since its early days.
Advance reservations are recommended as the restaurant operates with a smart dress code requirement. The main dining room can accommodate up to 210 guests, so booking early is important for larger groups.
A chef here is said to have created Australia's first cassata, though the original recipe used ingredients that were not permitted at the time. This story reflects the kitchen's willingness to push culinary boundaries.
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