A Neapolitan chef’s career-long dream has become a reality at the edge of Fortitude Valley, with Carmine Guarino welcoming the public to Trattoria Fellini’s, his new Italian street food kitchen bringing the lively flavours of coastal Italy to the Howard Smith Wharves.
The new trattoria officially began service today, Wednesday, 10 September, offering Brisbane a casual and vibrant taste of the Mediterranean. It joins its more refined neighbour, Ciao Papi, creating a precinct with two distinct Italian dining experiences side by side along the river.
A Taste of Home
With over 26 years of experience, Head Chef Carmine Guarino has shaped Fellini’s from his own personal history. He explained that his vision was to bring his Neapolitan roots to Brisbane, creating an authentic and high-energy street food atmosphere that the whole family could enjoy.
Inspired by the bustling trattorias of Naples and the Amalfi Coast, he wanted to make Italian food more accessible, faster, and fun for the community. The restaurant’s name pays respect to the famous Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini, aiming to capture the same romance and vibrancy in its food and hospitality.
Street Food Meets Riverside Dining
Fellini’s is designed for both dine-in and takeaway customers, blending traditional Italian flavours with a modern, street-food feel. The menu features a wide selection of handmade pastas, pizzas, and classic mains. Diners can start with entrées like Bruschetta al Pomodoro or Cuoppo Fritto, a crispy mix of calamari and mussels. Pasta dishes include fresh crab Paccheri al Granchio and Roman favourite Rigatoni Amatriciana.
For main courses, the menu offers dishes like the golden Cotoletta di Vitello (veal cutlet) and Parmigiana di Melanzane. The pizza oven produces classics including Margherita and Salamina. To complete the experience, the bar serves a curated selection of Italian-inspired wines, beers, and cocktails.
A New Chapter for the Wharves
The addition of Fellini’s is seen as an exciting new chapter for the popular riverside precinct. Howard Smith Wharves CEO Luke Fraser stated he was proud to help deliver a unique offering for Brisbane, inspired by the trattorias of Italy. He believes the eatery will become a go-to spot for friends and families looking to enjoy good food and sunshine along the Brisbane River.
Published Date 10-September-2025
