The smallest licensed premises in Victoria, what Piccolo lacks in size, it more than makes up in character.
From 7.30am Monday to Friday, it acts as an extended, licensed living room for its diverse but devoted clientele. As the nearby buildings are a mixture of offices and studios, it is not unusual to see artists enjoying a late bowl of cereal next to a table of businessfolk having lunch.
The semi-circular bar, taking up most of the space inside, prides itself on offering boutique products (their biggest selling drink is "Mountain Goat" beer, a locally brewed ale.
In the European tradition of making the most of every inch of space, tables and chairs spill out into the laneway while a solitary couch huddles in the corner.
Piccolo is not open on weekends and during winter it is usually shut by eight; it stays open later during the warmer months.