“The all-Italian-produce party known as cucina rustica makes its home in Heidelberg, in Melbourne’s north-east, thanks to Little Black Pig & Sons’ menu that changes weekly, often daily, in the spirit of working with the seasons. From the antipasto of fried zucchini flowers stuffed with herbs and cheeses to the primi of pitch-perfect pasta (go for the ravioli fatti a mano, luscious with burnt butter), it’s a kitchen simpatico with the brief. The secondi (rolled pork belly with toffee-crisp crackling is the must-order) and dolci (hello tiramisu) are no slouches either. The shopfront on Heidelberg’s main drag enforces the message that this place is a step up for the ’hood, while inside it’s a slick vision of contemporary dining with a high-low mix of exposed brick walls and linen-clad tables.”
“I have been fortunate to have eaten Italian food here and around the world. The food in the new Little Black Pig & Sons is sensational. This restaurant is clearly a fine dining establishment tucked away in Heidelberg. Sometimes a meal sticks in your mind because of its blending of flavours, the freshest produce, all done with loving care. I won’t forget my first meal here. The service was superb as the staff engaged us in the menu and wine list, and then the food took Italian food to a new level. I live a long way from the restaurant but I will certainly travel there for great food on special occasions.”
“Happened to come across this little beauty of a restaurant. Read some reviews and decided to give it a go. One of the best in the region. From the moment we walked in we were made to feel welcome by Matt. The food was great as was the service and we couldn’t stop telling ourselves how lucky we were to come across this restaurant. Matt even ask us to go to the kitchen and meet Chef David. Can’t recommend this place highly enough.
Do yourself a favour and give it a go.
You will not be disappointed.”