Dive into the heart of the Goulburn Valley’s culinary scene with Jan and Paul Phillips. Every Friday, the pair will serve our readers with their knowledge of our communities’ restaurants, cafés and pubs — one plate at a time.
Cheers to great company and amazing meals with Jill, Jan, Paul and Min.
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BelCibo’s journey began on Benalla Rd, where it quickly earned a reputation for exceptional service and delicious food.
Word of mouth spread rapidly as locals and visitors alike discovered its offerings.
The Shepparton Epicurean Club was fortunate to host a meal there, and the event was an outstanding success.
Jill, our newly appointed food mistress at the time, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Belinda, Marco, their amazing staff and their talented head chef for making the evening so memorable.
Their flexibility, enthusiasm and attention to detail created a seamless and enjoyable experience — a memory we continue to value.
The decision to relocate to a more central location in Shepparton was both bold and brilliant.
The new venue takes full advantage of the region’s favourable weather, with inviting al fresco dining options and increased capacity for larger events.
The thoughtfully designed function room is ideal for celebrations, networking events and gatherings of all kinds.
We’ve experienced many occasions there, including Christmas parties, networking meetings and private meals, and the space effortlessly transitions from mingling to seated meals, enhancing every event.
BelCibo’s charm is further amplified by its unique structure, crafted from 20-foot shipping containers.
This innovative architectural design blends vibrant, eclectic aesthetics with practicality and style.
Watching BelCibo take shape during its construction was fascinating, and the final result exceeded all expectations.
Adding a heartfelt connection, the restaurant is located on land that once belonged to Graeme Williams, a cherished friend and family member.
Belinda and Marco, the passionate duo behind BelCibo, have poured their hearts into creating a café/restaurant that embodies community and quality.
They prioritise local produce and suppliers, Marco spoke fondly about Min Innes Irons, offering valuable guidance on kitchen design and equipment.
These connections, no matter how small, are deeply valued, including the shared love the Innes Ironses and Phillipses have for travelling in Italy and being able to enjoy Italian cuisine locally.
BelCibo reflects everything that makes Italian culture so beloved: a dedication to quality, family traditions and a sense of community.
Marco’s late father, Sebastian, was a significant contributor before his passing last year.
His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, who continue to grow a bounty of fresh produce — basil, garlic, onions, parsley, lemons, oranges, chillies and more — for the family and the restaurant.
This commitment to tradition ensures that every dish is a testament to authenticity and love.
On a warm, balmy night, we celebrated friendship and the beautiful spaces of BelCibo.
Al fresco dining added another dimension to the experience as we shared sensational barbecued king prawns, a magnificent Caprese salad, wonderful pizzas and beautiful wine.
We loved the food and atmosphere so much that we returned for breakfast the next morning, which was equally exceptional.
Belinda and Marco have created more than just a restaurant; they’ve established a gathering place where people come together to celebrate life, food and connection.
If you haven’t yet experienced BelCibo, it’s a must-visit gem in Shepparton — a place that delights everyone who walks through its doors.
Food pricing for BelCibo, rated by Jan and Paul: $$
(Expensive $$$, moderate $$, good value $).
Caprese salad.
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Barbecued prawns.
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Salsicca pizza.
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Gamberi pizza.
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Granola with fresh fruit.
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Eggs Benedict with hollandaise and sautéed spinach.
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