celebrating 50 years

Il Gambero Restaurant has been tempting the palates of Lygon Street for 50 years and our customers keep coming back for more. Known for our friendly family atmosphere, “old-fashioned” service, and a focus on good quality food at great value, Il Gambero has become a true Carlton landmark.

The story began in the early 1970s, when Frank and Angela Dimattina opened the doors to what would become a beloved family business. Their family’s roots trace back to Stromboli, a small volcanic island off Sicily. In 1922, their father migrated to Australia as a young boy, working in the family fruit and vegetable trade. Food was always part of life, and in the 1970’s, Frank carried that passion into hospitality, with Angela joining him soon after. Together, they built Il Gambero into a restaurant shaped by hard work, heritage, and genuine hospitality.

Originally located at 215 Lygon Street, Il Gambero became a dining institution. When a building fire forced us to move, we relocated to 166 Lygon Street and rebranded as Il Gambero on the Park, where we’ve proudly been for the past 15 years. Through it all, our spirit has remained the same, a welcoming space where family and friends gather to share great food and lasting memories.

Operating continuously on Lygon Street for five decades, Il Gambero offers an extensive menu of pastas, seafood, chicken, veal, steak, and of course, our famous pizza. It’s the mix of authentic Italian flavours, a warm family-friendly atmosphere, and attentive service that keeps generations of diners returning time and time again.

We trust you enjoy your meal with us and thank you for being part of the Il Gambero story