A Taste of Italy

A Taste of Italy brings an Italian trattoria-style dining experience to Clifton Beach, with dine-in, takeaway and delivery options. The menu centres on hand-made pizzas and pasta, with risotto, seafood, salads, antipasto share plates and desserts also available. Meals are prepared by hand each day, using recipes and techniques the restaurant says have been passed down through generations. There is also a selection of imported and Australian beers, wines, soft drinks and spirits to accompany a meal.

The restaurant describes itself as family-focused, making it a practical choice for a relaxed meal with children, visiting relatives or a larger group of friends. Its emphasis is on sitting, eating and talking, rather than a rushed dining experience. Couples can share antipasto and a pizza, while solo diners and takeaway customers have the option of ordering from the full or takeaway menu. The venue also welcomes regulars and visitors, with its team available to recommend specials and favourites.

Pizza is central to the restaurant’s identity. The business began as a pizza shop in the Clifton Beach Shopping Centre in 2002, founded by chef Roberto after he moved to the area from Melbourne. The original menu was shaped around the flavours and atmosphere of an Italian trattoria, and later owners Mario and Silvia expanded the offering with table service, a liquor licence and further Italian dishes. The restaurant says it was voted the best pizza by local diners in 2016.

Today, A Taste of Italy presents itself as a local restaurant serving both the Clifton Beach community and the wider Cairns area. Its story includes employing young people from Clifton Beach and nearby Cairns, while its menu combines familiar Italian staples with seafood and produce sourced locally where possible. Located in Clifton Village Shopping Centre on the Captain Cook Highway, it suits diners looking for a straightforward Italian meal, whether that means a sit-down lunch or dinner, a shared spread with friends and family, or pizza and pasta to enjoy at home.