In the ever-changing spectrum that is the Melbourne food scape, Gradi has already proven itself amongst the masses. So when the latest installment from Johnny Di Francesco hit Southbank it naturally drew crowds. Having the opportunity to try Johnny’s new offering was a welcome invitation.

Located on Melbourne’s Southbank in the heart of the city sits Gradi Crown. Softly lit against the backdrop of Crown, Gradi has a warm and inviting feeling that welcomes passerby to come in and enjoy a glass of wine and maybe share a little something to eat.

From the softly lit frontage, inside Gradi is bright and alive with the sounds of people, waiters and the kitchen roaring away. Dressed in dark hues of leather and wood and finished with marble accents boasts a large dining room for 300 hundred, complimented with a private dining room and chef’s table, Gradi offers its diners a choice for any occasion.

Gradi features a variety of small plates like calamari fritti with mayonnaise, arancini rice ball made with pork sausage, peas, mozzarella heart on a spicy rosé sauce and beef carpaccio with genovese pesto, croutons and cherry tomato.

And with a gallery of salumi on display, Gradi offers its diners the opportunity to sample a variety of pancetta, prosciutto and mortadella as well as a 30 month aged secretum – a must for any visit. These are accompanied with a wide range of cheeses each with their own textures and flavours that speak volumes on their own. Sliced and cut to order you are always insured the freshest selection.

Complimented with wood fired Pizze including Di Francesco’s award winning margherita, Gradi uses the freshest ingredients to bring out the quality of flavours in every bite. But if you’re after a little something more, the expansive menu allows for everyone’s taste with a range of pastas, risottos and full size plates that are sure to satisfy.

But the true test of any dining experience is, apart from the food, the service. It has the ability to make or break a night out. And with no exception, the service and staff are with out question. The are not only attentive and courteous but have a thorough knowledge of the menu and wines to help make your experience remarkable.

With something for everyone Gradi is an experience that is not to be rushed, so when you find yourself with a few hours and a friend or two. Gradi provides the perfect setting to settle in, sip on a glass of wine and share a few plates not to mention a few laughs and definitely a few more glasses of wine.