Every bite tells a story | Sicilian nights at Little Lipari

Named after Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands, this café-restaurant pays homage to a stunning volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea, just north of Sicily.

These islands, steeped in history and natural beauty, serve as an inspiration for the Sicilian-infused cuisine that has found its way to Shepparton, much to the delight of the community.

Little Lipari's venue is a harmonious blend of rustic charm and eclectic Italian flair.

The cosy, inviting space immediately puts you at ease, with decor that tells a story of heritage, family and passion.

Run by dynamic mother-and-daughter duo Sophia Wells and Olivia Griffiths, the café-restaurant radiates warmth and authenticity.

The night we visited, the place was buzzing with energy and alive with laughter, conversation and the clinking of plates and glasses.

Sophia proudly shared that the team had served over 200 plates that day, and despite the workload, the staff remained upbeat, their enthusiasm undiminished.

It was a testament to the team’s dedication and camaraderie.

Olivia, who managed the floor with grace and attentiveness, offered excellent recommendations and ensured that every guest felt like family.

Both Sophia and Olivia spoke highly of the previous owners, acknowledging the traditions they had laid down, which continue to shape the restaurant’s soul.

The familial warmth of Little Lipari extends beyond its ambience.

Sophia took time to show us family photos displayed in the restaurant, sharing stories of her Italian heritage.

Though her roots trace back to northern Italy, she explained how Sicilian influences had profoundly shaped their menu.

Her family’s culinary journey includes running the Tatura Bakery, a legacy of crafting diverse and delicious dishes that continues to thrive at Little Lipari.

The menu itself is a masterpiece, thoughtfully catering to a wide range of dietary needs with exceptional vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Great coffee and delectable cakes set the tone, while the open kitchen invites diners to witness the seamless choreography of the culinary team.

The friendly banter and quiet energy emanating from the kitchen add to the restaurant’s lively yet harmonious atmosphere.

Head chef Rion Belmont, a true artist in the kitchen, personally sought our feedback on his creations.

We were delighted to share our admiration, especially for the seafood linguine, which we agreed was among the best we’d ever had.

Every dish we tried reflected a perfect balance of flavours, showcasing the team’s skill and commitment to quality.

Hospitality is an art, and Sophia and Olivia are undoubtedly masters.

Their warmth, dedication and genuine care for their guests make Little Lipari more than just a place to eat — it’s a place to connect, celebrate and create memories.

Whether you’re savouring a quiet coffee or indulging in a Sicilian-inspired feast, Little Lipari offers an experience that lingers long after the last bite.

We loved the seared scallops paired with velvety cauliflower purée, as well as the perfectly executed bruschetta.

For mains, the slow-cooked lamb ragù served over tender potato gnocchi was rich and comforting, while the seafood linguine, as mentioned earlier, was truly sublime, boasting the ideal balance of flavours and a generous medley of seafood.

To cap off this exceptional dining experience, we shared a tiramisu that was arguably unmatched in its perfection, accompanied by delightful gelato that was the perfect finish.

Food pricing for Little Lipari, rated by Jan and Paul: $$

(Expensive $$$, moderate $$, good value $).