Rifos

Rifo’s brings a warmly familiar slice of Italy to Maylands, the kind of local spot where pizza and pasta take centre stage and the welcome feels effortless. Its menu nods to classic trattoria comforts while adding a contemporary polish, steering diners from the first bite with garlic bread on fresh ciabatta and crisp salt and pepper squid brightened with lemon and aioli.

Pizzas are thoughtfully composed and big on flavour: a margherita crowned with basil and oregano speaks of simple pleasures, while the Frutti di Mare pizza layers garlic prawns with cherry tomatoes, fresh chilli and basil for coastal swagger. Calzone arrives generously folded and fragrant, from a prosciutto number with rocket, Grana Padano and Fior di latte to the Nova calzone with mushrooms, roasted peppers, semi-dried tomatoes and basil pesto.

Beyond the dough, there is hearty comfort in a golden chicken parmigiana with Napolitana sauce, chips and salad, and a risotto Fremantle that sails through seafood, basil and white wine. Lighter plates lean sunny and fresh, with king prawn and calamari salads dressed for brightness. Little diners are well looked after too, with familiar favourites.

Relaxed, convivial and unmistakably local, Rifo’s suits family gatherings, catch-ups and easy weeknight suppers alike. Book in, bring an appetite, and let Maylands’ Italian charmer twirl you around its menu like a perfectly sauced strand of spaghetti.