This little place, hidden behind the Shell Service Station just off the main road at 5 Diggers Parade, is a valuable find for anyone looking for something to tempt the taste buds in Anglesea.

Evening meals start at 6pm at this new restaurant only 15 minutes from Jan Juc along the Great Ocean Road in Anglesea. Locanda del Mare offers light Italian flavoured meals as well as really excellent pizzas, pasta and risottos. A special of the day like Pesce di Suppa seems most suitable for a cool autumn evening by the sea with a good balance between the rich tomato base and fresh seafood. Pancetta wrapped quail would have been my next choice. A crisp pizza with fresh toppings rapidly disappeared on the other side of the table. Creamy mushroom risotto and fresh green salad were worth the trip for my friend from Melbourne.

The warm vibe and the quality of our meal encouraged us to order some luscious desserts. An Adelaide Hills Rose accompanied all of our meals wonderfully.The hard surfaces do add to the noise level but the quick friendly service more than makes up for this and was excellent on the very busy holiday weekend night that we visited.

Take away service is also available. Phone: 03 5263 2904 And winter hours are related to custom so do ring if you are thinking of stopping for lunch.