"Mangiare e felicita" - Eating is happiness!
A taste of Italy in the heart of Hampton
La Svolta, meaning "turning point, " is a contemporary Italian restaurant in Hampton, Melbourne. We bring authentic, seasonal dishes inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Italy to the south side of Melbourne. Our passion is to share the fresh flavours and aromas of our homeland with every bite.
Our Story
Inspired by the vibrant flavours and warm hospitality of traditional Italian kitchens, La Svolta was born from the vision of owners Valerio Calabro and Giuseppe "Pino" Russo. These Italian natives, best friends and passionate cooks, wanted to share the true essence of Italian cuisine with Melbourne. Their journey to Australia was a pursuit of sharing the fresh, delicious flavours of their homeland with the other side of the world.
A Culinary Experience
At La Svolta, we believe "mangiare e felicita" - eating is happiness! Our menu features traditional dishes with a modern twist. From mouthwatering pizzas crafted according to the strict guidelines of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) to fresh pasta dishes and hearty secondi, our culinary offerings are designed to tantalise your taste buds.
Highlights of our Menu
- Frittura di Calamari: Crispy fried calamari served with a side of creamy aioli.
- Margherita Pizza: A classic Neapolitan pizza with fresh tomato sauce, fior di latte mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
- Tagliatelle al Ragu' Bolognese: Hearty tagliatelle pasta tossed in a rich and flavourful beef and pork ragu.
- Risotto del Giorno: A daily-changing risotto prepared with fresh ingredients and inspired by seasonal ingredients.
A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
Our restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere will transport you straight to Italy. Enjoy the contemporary, yet comfortably elegant ambiance while you savor delicious food and share memorable moments with friends and family.
Overview of Reviews
The reviews are a mixed bag, with some guests rating their experience 5 stars, while others were less impressed, giving only 1 or 2 stars.
Food and Drinks
Quality and Variety
The reviews suggest that the food at La Svolta is generally good, with many praising the quality and variety of dishes, particularly the pizzas and pasta. Some highlights include the homemade gnocchi, Sicilian cannoli, and wood-fired pizzas.
Price and Value
However, some reviewers felt that the prices were too high, especially considering the portion sizes. A few mentioned that they felt ripped off due to the small portions and high prices.
Service
Friendliness and Attitude
The service at La Svolta received mixed reviews. Some reviewers praised the friendly and welcoming staff, while others felt that the service was rude or inattentive.
Room and Accommodation
Comfort and Cleanliness
Reviews of the accommodation were generally positive, with many praising the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms. Some mentioned the beautiful views from the balcony and the attention to detail in the rooms.
Location and Amenities
Convenience and Accessibility
The location of La Svolta was seen as a convenient and accessible, with many praising the proximity to local attractions and amenities.

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