The Moat

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The Moat Enjoy a European escape at The Moat, an intimate haven in the heart of the CBD. Our family welcomes yours to join us.
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Our authentic menu reflects the Italian heritage of our two owners, Paul and Rosie. Enjoy a European escape at The Moat, an intimate haven in the heart of Melbourne located in the basement of the city’s literary hub, the State Library of Victoria. A charming courtyard allows for outdoor dining and drinking, or head into the indoor dining room surrounded by books and bluestone walls. Our menu reflects the Italian heritage of our two owners, Paul and Rosie. Together, they have created authentic dishes that are hand-made with seasonal local produce, simplicity and love.

The trio you didn’t know you needed.Every Wednesday night is Gnocchi Night at The Moat. Choose from three gnocchi styles...
09/11/2026

The trio you didn’t know you needed.

Every Wednesday night is Gnocchi Night at The Moat. Choose from three gnocchi styles, served with a green leaf salad and a glass of our house w**e. Vote below which style of gnocchi you’re going to try next!

Make a night of it and book your table via the link in our bio.

You set the time, and we’ll set the scene.Step inside The Moat for an evening with your favourite person. Crisp martinis...
05/11/2026

You set the time, and we’ll set the scene.

Step inside The Moat for an evening with your favourite person. Crisp martinis, dim lights and no reason to rush.

Book your next date night via the link in our bio.

04/11/2026

Eeny, meeny, miny, moe… 🍸

Feeling fresh and fruity? The Lt Lonsdale is calling your name.
Or are you in the mood for something tart with a little bite? The Bloody Sour is the way to go.
Or perhaps a herbal, citrusy blend to shake things up? The Bittersweet Symphony opens its arms for you.

But why choose just one? Try all three. It’s Happy Hour, after all.

Your post-9-to-5 escape, without leaving the city.Gather your friends for a mid-week dinner at The Moat. Tucked beneath ...
02/11/2026

Your post-9-to-5 escape, without leaving the city.

Gather your friends for a mid-week dinner at The Moat. Tucked beneath the State Library, it’s the perfect place to step away from the city’s bustle, settle in and enjoy good food with good company.

Book a table via the link in our bio.

Taste the quality, savour the flavour.At The Moat, our menu celebrates rich Italian heritage through thoughtfully prepar...
29/10/2026

Taste the quality, savour the flavour.

At The Moat, our menu celebrates rich Italian heritage through thoughtfully prepared dishes, quality ingredients and fresh Australian produce. Every bite tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.

If you’ve been before, comment your favourite dishes below 👇

28/10/2026

Our doors are open for your festive celebrations.

We know this time of year can get busy, so let us take one thing off your plate. From Christmas dinners to end of year gatherings, The Moat is available for private bookings.

Get in touch to secure your Christmas booking via email
[email protected]

At The Moat, tiramisu is more than just dessert. It’s thoughtful preparation, quality ingredients and a little taste of ...
26/10/2026

At The Moat, tiramisu is more than just dessert. It’s thoughtful preparation, quality ingredients and a little taste of Italian heritage.

On the go? Take a little taste of Italy with you. Our Tiramisu Cart is waiting for you outside.

Tuesday–Friday | 4:30–9PM
Saturday | 4:30–9:30PM

*Disclaimer, our cart is weather dependent.

15/10/2026

The pasta gets you down the stairs. The people make you forget what time it is.

Come for the food, stay for the stories, the extra pour, the laughter from the kitchen and the feeling you’ve been coming here for years - even if it’s your first night.

That’s The Moat. 🤍

The closer you look, the harder it is to share.Pasta, a glass of w**e and nowhere else to be.Dinner beneath the State Li...
12/10/2026

The closer you look, the harder it is to share.

Pasta, a glass of w**e and nowhere else to be.

Dinner beneath the State Library. Book your pasta date now.

Since our 100-layer lasagna had quite the moment last week, we thought it deserved another.Crisp at the edges, layered t...
08/10/2026

Since our 100-layer lasagna had quite the moment last week, we thought it deserved another.

Crisp at the edges, layered through the centre and the kind of dish that stops conversation - briefly.

Order one for the table. Whether you share it is another matter.

Address

176 Little Lonsdale Street
Melbourne, VIC
3000

Opening Hours

Tuesday 4pm - 10pm
Wednesday 4pm - 10pm
Thursday 4pm - 10pm
Friday 4pm - 10pm
Saturday 4pm - 10pm

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