Gift giving, words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, physical touch. Talk to loved up people (or those looking for love) and most will relate to one of these 5 ‘Love Languages’. But for many, there is another language that drips with romance - one that is, arguably, the most loving and universal of them all. I am, of course, talking about pasta. Whether it’s gnocchi with pine nuts and pesto, fettuccine in a creamy carbonara or Spaghetti alla Puttanesca, we all have our favourite go to plate that gives us comfort, security and a feeling of deep satisfaction.

In recognition of this sensual icon, we have collated a few of the best pasta spots from around our neighbourhoods.

Park Street Pasta & Wine

This elegant, friendly neighbourhood pasta and wine bar is a local treasure. There is a mouthwatering selection of handmade pasta, from spaghettoni to ravioli, conchiglie to pappardelle, all oozing with Tuscan inspired flavours. Plus, a tidy wine least featuring Italian, international and local drops to match. The venue boasts an intimate bar and dining room, plus an exterior terrazzo area- perfect for those warm summer nights.

OPENING HOURS: Tuesday to Sunday Lunch and Dinner

WHERE: 268 Park Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205  | Image credit: Pettinau Roberto

Ciao Cielo

Ciao Cielo is an Italian fine dining restaurant, with an exquisite selection of house-made pasta, authentic Italian food, and a little frivolity. Located in the old Port Melbourne Courthouse, by day it’s inspired by casual beachside eats in Portofino and by night it transforms under a sky of twinkling fairy lights, creating a casual, party atmosphere for fabulous nights out.

OPENING HOURS: Monday 5 PM to Late | Wednesday to Sunday 12 pm to late.

WHERE: 115 Bay Street, Port Melbourne, VIC 3207 | Image Credit: Ciao Cielo

Gnoccheria by Take Me Home

Want to create your own at home pasta romance? Take Me Home is a family run business serving a menu of artisan, handmade pastas, sauces, pizza bases and more, all made with love. You can pick up their full range plus handmade gnocchi and pasta made fresh daily from their Gnoccheria in Middle Park (And other locations).

OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm | Saturday 10am to 4pm

WHERE: 11 Armstrong Street Middle Park VIC 3206 | Image credit: Take Me Home

Sorsi e Morsi

Tucked just around the corner from Acland Street Village, this is local secret worth discovering. The atmosphere is relaxed and cosy, the service is great, and the food is authentic and delicious. With gnocchi that melts in your mouth, sauces rich in Italian flavours plus home-cooked favourites, you’ll be saying ‘Ciao!’ to your own slice of Italy like an old friend.

OPENING HOURS: Monday to Tuesday 7 am to 3 pm | Wednesday to Sunday 7 am to late.

WHERE: 31 Blessington Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182  | Image credit: Sorsi et Morsi

Zanini Pizzeria

Stepping into Zanini is like stepping into a foodie tour of Italy, from the Alps to Sicily, passing through the Tuscan hillside and onto Rome. With two locations nestled in the heart of Elwood Village and St Kilda East, this is warm and rustic dining serving authentic plates of pasta, pizza and more with a healthy seasoning of comfort.

OPENING HOURS: Pizzeria - Tuesday to Sunday, 5 pm to 9.30 pm

WHERE: 106 Ormond Road, Elwood VIC 3184 | 262 Inkerman Street, St Kilda East VIC 3183 | Image credit: Zanini Pizzeria

Ripponlea Food & Wine

This Ripponlea staple offers comfort, style and a little bit of fancy without the fuss! The menu is bursting with fresh and rich flavours and, of course, some signature pasta dishes. Fresh seafood with white wine, mushrooms and toasted hazelnuts, confit tomato and vodka - matches made in pasta heaven all wait for you in this chic, friendly neighbourhood haunt.

OPENING HOURS: Wednesday to Saturday 3 pm to late.

WHERE: 15 Glen Eira Road, Ripponlea, VIC 3185 | Image credit: Ripponlea Food & Wine

There are, of course, so many more great pasta destinations in our neighbourhoods so get out there and show them some pasta love!

Main image credit: Pettinau Roberto (Park Street Pasta & Wine)