NORTHERN ITALIAN CUISINE
IN THE HEART OF GEELONG
Caruggi is the medieval centre of Genoa, translating as little alleyway in Genovese dialect, it is the labyrinth that meanders from the old port arcades of Sottoripe through ancient Genoa connecting small squares and opening up to reveal Cathedrals. The Caruggi have always housed small artisanal shops and many still serve typical dishes and foods as they have done for 100’s of years.
Caruggi seves classic Northern Italian with Ligurian specialities. In the true spirit of the Caruggi we have lots of little pockets and alcoves for you to discover and settle into.
Bookings
Our wine collection is a journey through the Italian regions and focuses on Italian indigenous grape varieties. We have a wide selection with some iconic makers, emerging stars and hidden gems.
All wine is available to take home at retail prices.
ShopMassimiliano the Chef and owner originates from the town of Recco which is famous for Focaccia di Recco. Focaccia col formaggio has become one of our most popular dishes and has a history that dates back to the tenth century.
Todays version is said to have been created by Reccos Ristorante Manulina in the late 1800s. The ristorante keeps the tradition going today and the town has formed a consortium to protect the product that carries a DOP. To serve Foccacia di Recco you must have approval from the consortium and use a specific recipe. Surrounding towns such as Camogli call it Focacccia col formaggio.
Massi did his early apprenticeship years at the Ristorante Manulina and you may spot their Ristorante del Buon Ricordo plate on one of our shelves.
Come and enjoy without the trip to Italy.
“Lunch well. Live well. The trattoria ritual.”
At Caruggi, we believe that lunch shouldn’t be rushed—it should be revered. Inspired by the timeless eateries of the Ligurian coast, we invite you to pause your day and embrace a true Northern Italian midday ritual, available Monday to Friday.
For just $25, enjoy the ultimate weekday trattoria lunch featuring your choice of three freshly made pastas changing weekly, served alongside a crisp side salad and our freshly baked focaccia.
Looking for something more? Ask about our daily meat and market fish specials, perfectly curated by Chef Massimiliano to showcase the season’s finest local catches and slow-roasted cuts.
Gather around our tables on Little Malop Street, pour a glass of regional Italian wine, and nourish both body and soul. Because when you lunch well, you live well.
Each Month we celebrate an Italian grape or region
October Wine Highlight – Gaglioppo
Scala Cirò Rosso (Calabria, Italy) g16 b 68
A vibrant, organic expression of Gaglioppo, one of Italy’s oldest grape varieties, crafted by the Scala family since 1949. Native to the hills of Cirò—the ancient Greek city of Cremissa—this historic grape takes its name from the Greek phrase for “beautiful foot”, referencing its elegant cluster shape. In antiquity, this wine was known as Krimissa and awarded to champions of the ancient Olympic Games.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied, fresh, and deeply savory, offering a rustic tannin structure reminiscent of a fine Nebbiolo or wild Pinot Noir, beautifully balanced by juicy red fruits and an earthy finish.
We are offering a pickup at both lunch and dinner. Our daily slow roast is also available for takeaway.
Jump onto our website to order or use Door dash for delivery.
Pick Up Takeaway
The Maximillast Room — Your Perfect Little Gathering Space
Tucked away inside Caruggi, the Maximillast Room is made for intimate celebrations and easy, joyful get‑togethers. Groups of 12 to 18 fit beautifully — just enough people for energy, not so many that you lose the magic.
It’s a space with personality: slightly zany, very Italian, and wonderfully relaxed. Perfect for out‑of‑office lunches that feel like a treat, Sunday family gatherings, milestone moments, or simply catching up with your favourite people.
Choose from our à la carte menu or let us design a tailored menu to suit your occasion. Whatever you’re planning, we’ll make it feel abundant, effortless, and unmistakably Caruggi.
The Room is not available for larger groups on a Friday and Saturday evening.
Please email- info@caruggi.com.au or alternatively phone 03 52296426 and leave a message- we are not very good at answering the phone.
Grazing Options for Groups