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.
Caruggi is celebrating Discovering the Impressionists- Paul Durand- Ruel coming to town. We are marking this landmark exhibition arrival with a curated selection of French-inspired cocktails, mocktails and aperitifs.
Nestled a two-minute walk from the Geelong Gallery in the heart of the Little Malop Street cultural precinct, our cozy Northern Italian trattoria is the perfect place to enjoy a pre or post exhibition lunch. Continue your artistic journey indulging in cocktails inspired by the revolutionary use of light, colour, and atmosphere from masters like Monet and Renoir, our bartenders have blended classic French elegance with our signature Italian flair.
Each Month we celebrate an Italian grape or region
September is Negroamaro Month
Featured Producer:
Leone di Castris Negroamaro Salice Salentino Riserva
The Rustic Jewel of Puglia
Often overshadowed by its famous sibling Primitivo, Negroamaro is the unsung hero of southern Italy. Translating directly to “black bitter,” this native Puglian variety delivers deep, brooding wines defined by a charmingly rustic edge, rich earthiness, and intense dark fruit aromas.
While grown across the region, it finds its ultimate expression in Salice Salentino within the Brindisi province. In this premier appellation, winemakers frequently blend Negroamaro with a touch of Malvasia Nera to lift the wine’s deep profile with beautiful, aromatic complexity.
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.
