IL FORNO

Great tasty food, wonderful ambience and on top of all excellent service - definitely making this a repeat place to visit!

The absolutely terrifying experience with the owner of this restaurant. Never in my life have I been treated like this by a restaurant owner let alone a person before. My work colleagues and I got verbally abused by this man, slapping on tables, standing over us and salivating from the mouth.
Weeks later we are still in shock by this treatment. I would never wish this experience upon anyone.

Visited second time tonight, and I have to say it’s definitely our go-to favourite Italian restaurant in Bayside now. The service is outstanding, friendly and very welcoming. The food likewise is fantastic. The pasta dishes are to die for, especially the Spaghetti Frutti di Mare which had me drooling for more. It’s such a lovely dining experience overall and we can’t wait to go back again.

Our regular Italian was closed so have IlForno a try for my husband's birthday. 10/10 food, 10/10 service. Highly recommend, will be going back. Thank you for a fantastic dinner

Last time i reviewed: 5 stars with a perfect performance (pre covid)
Today 4.6/5: this review was difficult, since the quality of the food is fantastic, however as I'm reviewing the experience as a whole, there were some issues that tainted. Firstly, the pizza has improved a lot; it's great now and probably the best in Hampton street. The pizzaiolo is a master and a lovely gentleman.
The quality of the mains is still very much the same; high standard all round. Everyone enjoyed their meal, with a couple exceptions. The portion size of certain plates has decreased, where the price has gone up. The ravioli main was tiny; In my opinion, embarrassingly small, reminiscent of ultra fine dining. The same cannot be said about other mains, much to my pleasure, albeit the price overall seems a bit high (probably corona tax), but I won't lament too much about that.
Being an Italian restaurant, it is accustom to bring bread to the table, which il Forno doesn't do, but I recommend they do in future. In my opinion, they should balance their portions across the mains if possible.
In summary, il Forno is still fantastic and I'm really impressed with the pizza. The pasta was great, the fish: brilliant, the service: good. I would recommend this restaurant but I think they need to solidify their identity. Do they wish to be an authentic Italian restaurant? I don't think so. A blend of Italian/Australian fine dining? Maybe, I'm not sure.

Excellent traditional Italian restaurant. Good food from a traditional menu, excellent wine list, pleasant ambience

Gorgeous southern Italian cuisine made by a deeply passionate and knowledgeable chef. Very glad we came and stuffed ourselves silly.

Our favorite Italian place - the food here never fails to disappoint. We have been coming here for years and get takeaway at least once a month, the pizzas are just that good. The mussels are also amazing - definitely a favourite, especially if you order them with a focaccia on the side to mop up the sauce. Highly reccomend

A very reasonably priced meal including a glass of wine! The staff are very friendly and the service excellent. I particularly appreciated the no-nonsense care they took to check vaccination status of customers on entry.

Have eaten there twice in 2 weeks - was very impressed with comprehensive menu (which clearly and usefully explains the food and what it comes with) and the variety of menu. Meal sizes are good, and food quality is excellent. The environment is nicely done and tables are well spaced. Service staff are very good - polite and attentive, although very busy! It's a very good example of how to dine well in the suburbs and at moderate prices. It's firmly on our list of go to places now!

We often get takeaway here as it’s always delicious and tasty. We dine in-house from time time and I must say it certainly does not disappoint. Tonight we dined and really enjoyed the new specials, both entrees and mains. We would definitely highly recommend this traditional Italian restaurant, you will not be disappointed. Thanks Naz and staff!

Excellent food service and staff very pleasant. If you need a place to eat a must place to go to.

Loved the lobster pasta. Best pasta ever! I have been to this restaurant many times and each time I enjoy the vibe and food. Definitely recommend.

Very authentic dishes & best pizza in Hampton. They don't skimp on quality and still offers value for the dollar!

We enjoyed three different pasta dishes (take away) from Il Forno night. Authentic flavours, fresh ingredients, generous serves and good value for money. We’ll be back.

Il Forno is a fabulous local Italian diner and from our experience as good as anything in Italy. Great Pizza excellent Pasta a very good tiramisu and friendly staff. All at a good price. Perfecto!

All is good Staff spot on food top-notch and choise of wines all that Is needed to make the visit is all one wants

Il Forno is a true authentic Italian restaurant with delicious food and lovely service. We keep coming back for the Ravioli Encartata, cotolette and pizza. One of the best Italian restaurants in Melbourne!

The food here is so reliable, tasty and fairly priced. The service is very good and friendly. Even though the restaurant was full, it was still not too noisy. Thoroughly recommend!

Went there on a recommendation which can be dangerous however my fears dissipated quickly. Naz and the team are true pros in every sense. The room has a warm and welcoming vibe, the produce was both fresh and tasty. Service was attentive without being too invasive. In the words of General Macarthur, ' I shall return '. Bravo.