$$$$ • Sicilian • Mornington
First, a confession: Assaggini is one of our favourite restaurants, so we came prepared to be delighted. We weren't disappointed, though! This was a birthday dinner for my partner and the attentiveness of the staff - including a surprise dessert birthday treat - made the occasion special. The menu is always entertaining and innovative. From the oysters with a mignonette dressing and Spanish anchovies we had as entrees, to the char-grilled prawns and pork-belly pasta mains, each dish delighted. Another feature - that we noted - was the pacing. There was plenty of time to chat to each other and savour the occasion. The wines, particularly Polperro's Heathcote Even Keel shiraz, were delivered promptly and complimented the meal beautifully.