Mr Vincenzo's

A 1970s-styled coastal Italian restaurant and wine bar on the Esplanade near Mornington Park, with outdoor seating that takes leashed dogs and bay views to go with the house-made pasta.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor area, on lead beside your table, so ask for an outdoor spot when you book. Water bowls may come out on request, but this is a busy room, so bring your own to be sure. Dogs stay outside rather than in the indoor dining room.

Known for. Handmade pasta (the slipper lobster spaghettini is a signature), a strong list of local Mornington Peninsula wines and creative cocktails, and a relaxed, terracotta-toned room with a yacht-rock soundtrack. It is a sit-down dinner spot more than a casual coffee stop.

Getting there and parking. 784 Esplanade. Street parking runs along the Esplanade, with public car parks around Mornington Park; Main Street is an easy walk for a post-dinner stroll.

Nearby with the dogs. Mornington Park is right across the street for a green leg-stretch, and the foreshore is on the doorstep. Royal Beach off-leash area is a short walk south past Schnapper Point.

When to go. This is an evening venue, so an earlier weeknight booking on the outdoor terrace suits a dog better than a full Saturday-night service.

Sources

• Mr Vincenzo's: Italian Restaurant in Mornington Peninsula · mrvincenzos.com
• Mr Vincenzo's, Mornington - The Age Good Food Guide · theage.com.au
• Mr Vincenzo's - The Ninch · theninch.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.