In the heart of Port Melbourne, where history and culinary artistry intertwine, Ciao Cielo stands as a beacon of Italian excellence within the walls of a 165-year-old heritage-listed courthouse. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, this iconic restaurant, whose name translates to “Hello Sky” or “Hello Heaven,” captures the essence of la dolce vita with a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation. From the moment you step into the grand dining room with its soaring ceilings and crackling open fire, the atmosphere is electric, buzzing with energy from a packed dining room, a lively outdoor area, and a private dining space that hums with intimacy. Even the casual pizza spot next door and a thriving Uber Eats operation reflect the restaurant’s unstoppable momentum.
The experience at Ciao Cielo is a masterclass in hospitality, led by co-owner Kate Dickins, whose warmth and passion infuse every moment. Her Italian heritage, rooted in her grandmother from Vicenza, shines through in a menu that respects tradition while embracing a modern flair. The dishes are a testament to finesse, each bite a celebration of rustic yet refined flavors. We began with plump Tasmanian oysters from Blackmans Bay, their briny freshness setting the tone for what was to come. The char-grilled octopus, paired with borlotti beans, crispy nduja, and a vibrant salsa verde, was a rustic delight, the textures of the beans and the bold crumb of nduja elevating the tender octopus. Equally decadent were the confit duck arancini, served with a spiced orange aioli that balanced richness with a citrusy zing, ensuring the dish was indulgent yet never overwhelming.
The mains were nothing short of showstoppers. The inked spaghetti, laced with generous portions of spanner crab, chili, garlic, and lemon, was a revelation. Made fresh daily in-house, the pasta’s texture was impeccable, each strand coated in a bright, zesty sauce that let the sweet crab shine. The wood-fired mortadella pizza was another triumph, its combination of honey, stracciatella, pistachio, and a hint of chili creating a symphony of flavors atop a perfectly charred crust. But the true star of the evening was the Algherese Paella di Catalan, a Sardinian dish hailing from Alghero. Eschewing traditional rice for fregola—handmade, toasted durum wheat semolina—this dish arrived in a cast-iron paella pan brimming with fresh scampi, prawns, mussels, calamari, and fish, all married with saffron and tomato. The fregola absorbed the bold flavors, creating a dish that was both hearty and delicate, a generous showcase of seafood that lingered in memory long after the meal.
Dessert maintained the high standard set by the savory courses. Nonna’s tiramisu, free of whipped cream and true to its roots, was a coffee-soaked dream, rich and balanced without being overly sweet. The pavlova, layered with housemade limoncello jelly, was a refreshing nod to the restaurant’s commitment to crafting its own liqueurs, with the citrusy brightness cutting through the delicate meringue. To cap the evening, a glass of their housemade limoncello was offered—a tart, sunny digestif that felt like a warm embrace.
The drinks menu was no less impressive. The Smoke Over The Andes cocktail, with Kraken Rum, Hai Ten Moccochinchi, apple juice, lime, and dark brown sugar, was a smoky, refreshing delight. The Tiramisu Martini, blending Kahlua, Neft Vodka, Mozart Dark Chocolate liqueur, Cointreau, and espresso, was a liquid homage to the dessert, indulgent yet perfectly balanced. The wine selection was equally thoughtful, with highlights including the crisp Laroche Petit Chablis from 2023, the earthy Cantina Tollo Nativo Sangiovese from Abruzzo, and the robust Pindarie Tempranillo, Sangiovese, and Shiraz blend from the Barossa Valley. Each pour complemented the meal, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
Ciao Cielo’s charm lies not just in its food but in its ability to create a sense of occasion. The heritage courthouse, with its warm ambiance and open fire, is the perfect setting for winter dining, where every detail—from the attentive service to the carefully curated menu—feels like a celebration of the good life.
Co-owners Kate Dickins and Bryan Nelson have crafted a dining experience that honors Italian tradition while pushing boundaries, delivering a meal that ticks every box. Whether it’s the standout Algherese Paella, the lip-smacking wood-fired pizza, or the dreamy tiramisu, Ciao Cielo is a love letter to Italian cuisine and a testament to 15 years of culinary magic. Grazie for the hospitality—this is one dining experience I can’t wait to relive.