Melbourne Restaurant ‘Flour Child’ sets the scene for their ‘Ciao Bella’ Luncheon.

Flour Child’s ‘Ciao Bella’ Luncheon: A Slice of Italian Summer in Richmond

Melbourne’s vibrant dining scene continues to be a treasure trove of culinary delights, and Flour Child in Richmond is no exception. Recently, this Italian eatery welcomed media and special guests to an unforgettable ‘Ciao Bella’ luncheon. The table was set on the picturesque balcony overlooking Church Street, and an icy cold Limoncello Margarita station awaited us.  

Menu prepared by Executive Chef, Alessandro Bellomunno

The luncheon was a feast for the senses beginning with antipasto, and then moved on to freshly made spaghetti alle chitarra. This dish, a true highlight of the summer menu, featured a stunning combination of lemon oil, succulent king prawns, and confit garlic cream, all elevated with a hint of chilli and parsley. 

Next it was pizza time with ‘Flour Child’ specialising in an iconic base that isn’t as heavy as most and is made with a large percentage of brown rice flour. However, it was the gluten free Margherita pizza for me personally that was the dish of the day.

As if the savory offerings weren’t enough to tantalize the palate, the sweet finale was nothing short of spectacular. Guests were treated to a refreshing sorbetto di limone, a zesty Italian limoncello lemon sorbet that was the ideal palate cleanser after the rich flavours of the main courses. The sweet and tangy notes brought a taste of the Amalfi Coast to Melbourne.

“We have created Ciao Bella Summer to give you a glimpse of Italy’s eternal summer, where every meal is a celebration of life. We’re not just serving you great food and cocktails” says co-founder Simon Kouba, “We’re sharing the warmth, passion, and spirit of Italian culture, where every moment is a memory waiting to be made.”

“Our menu draws inspiration from two of Sicily’s most captivating myths: the goddess Persephone, who is said to have brought an eternal summer to the island, and the legend of ‘Testa di Moro,’ or the Moor’s Head. These stories have inspired a vibrant summer menu that celebrates bold, authentic Sicilian flavours” shares Kouba. “To bring this vision to life, we’ve collaborated with some of Australia’s finest Italian-Australian brands, including Villa Massa, Marchetti Fine Foods, and That’s Amore Cheese, ensuring every dish and drink transports diners to the turquoise waters of Sicily’s coast.”

The ‘Ciao Bella’ luncheon celebrated the essence of Italian summer cuisine in a beautifully curated setting. With Simon Kouba at the helm, Flour Child continues to solidify its reputation as one of Melbourne’s must-visit dining destinations. 

By Melinda Sullivan

Photography by Sam Tabone

For more information and to book please visit https://flourchild.com.au/richmond/