Sabatinis

Profiled by deGroots Media
Parramatta locals in search of fine Italian food have been making Sabatinis their destination of choice for well over a decade. Opened in 1996, it was purchased from the original owner a few years later by the head waiter, Sam Sakalaki, who has been running the restaurant smoothly ever since. Sabatinis sits on Phillip Street, just around the corner from the main dining strip, offering a peaceful change of scene from the often noisy eateries nearby. Furnished in calming hues of royal blue with colourful splashes upon the walls in the form of decorative painted plates, Sabatinis possesses a warm, rustic charm that is often found in the kitchens of the Italian countryside.

The food is as pleasing as the genuinely friendly service and cosy decor. Italian favourites with a contemporary twist dominate the menu and there is also a specials board to make your choice from. You might begin with oven baked mushrooms, stuffed with tasty cheese, herbs and chicken before being drizzled with a garlic butter sauce. Plump prawns smothered in garlic and tomato puree with olive oil and rosemary are another favourite. Seafood is a specialty at Sabatinis; the seared salmon on eggplant, lemon and chickpea blends simple flavours together for a classic combination. And, whatever you do, try to leave room for dessert – they’re all homemade and very delicious indeed.

Amy Looker