South Yarra’s go-to casual eatery for Italian focaccia and spritz

A taste of Italy, one sandwich at a time

When it comes to Melbourne’s sandwich scene, we’re all about those carbs, and Zita’s is here to shake things up with a slice of Italian heaven. Easily spotted by its sunny yellow and white awning, this cheerful little spot adds a splash of sunshine to Toorak Road and a whole lot of heart to your lunch break.

The duo behind the dough

Zita’s is the brainchild of Sara Pestarino from Genoa and Riccardo Guglietti from Rome, a dynamic duo with a serious focaccia fixation. Together, they’ve taken Italy’s regional styles and brought them to life in a South Yarra sandwich bar that’s small on space (just 24 seats inside and out) but big on flavour.

Focaccia two ways

Here, the focaccia game is strong—and diverse. You’ll find Genovese-style olive focaccia, thin, soft, and savoury, alongside a thicker, chewier Roman version that’s sliced and stuffed with all the good stuff. It’s the best of both worlds—crispy, chewy, golden-edged perfection—and yes, every single dough is fermented for up to 38 hours. That’s some serious dedication to texture.

Filled, folded and absolutely worth it

Forget basic sarnies. Zita’s creations are a masterclass in balance—light but satisfying, simple yet bold. Highlights include:

• Nonna’s Favourite: capers, roast sauce, and vitello tonnato

• The Roman Empire: stracciatella, artichoke sauce, mortadella, and pistachios

• Luigi: Parma prosciutto, truffle cheese, mushroom cream, and rocket

• Squid + Stracciatella: salty, creamy, and totally unexpected (in the best way)

You’ll also spot mortadella with ’nduja, eggplant parm, and the occasional daily special you’ll wish you could have every day.

Sip & sit (if you’re lucky)

With just a handful of seats, Zita’s fills up quickly—but if you’re keen to linger, grab a sunny spot under that signature awning, order a spritz and make a moment of it. Their drinks list brings the same Italian flair, with house-made berry syrup spritzes, limoncello numbers, and other bright little sips to match your focaccia.

Spritzes and sandwiches, no fuss

There’s a reason the takeaway queue can get long—people know what’s good. But whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in with a sandwich and a drink, Zita’s is an effortless kind of delicious. No bells, no whistles—just lovingly made focaccia and a bit of European sunshine, right here in Melbourne.