Pilu at Freshwater is an award-winning Italian restaurant set against the beautiful backdrop of Freshwater beach. The light and airy space, framed by big bay windows, allows patrons to enjoy the seaside views whilst tucking into the thrilling taste of Sardinia. The restaurant aesthetic has a laid-back beach vibe doused in baby blue hues, crisp white finishes, and rustic wooden floorboards. With views looking directly out onto the ocean, it is easy to be swept away by the majesty of the natural realm.

Lunch Wednesday to Sunday and dinner Wednesday to Saturday

Located in a terrace house in Surry Hills, close to the Sydney CBD, Pellegrino's is inspired by the trattorias of Italy, with warm lighting and white tablecloths. There is a rustic touch with walls lined with wine bottles, tins of tomatoes, bottles of olive oil and photos. Expect traditional dishes like parpadelle bolognaise, long-simmered pork + veal and ravioli gamberi with burnt butter sauce. The wine list features classic Italian wines like Chianti with a few Australian and French to choose from.

Open for lunch Friday-Saturday and dinner daily

With handmade pasta; ravioli, gnocchi and traditional Italian fare, Machiavelli has been producing true Italian flavours befitting its famous name for 30 years. Explore a menu of fresh antipasti, handmade pasta adorned with seafood straight from the Sydney Fish markets. Boasting an impressive wine selection from the best wineries of Italy, Australia and New Zealand, diners are truly spoilt for choice. Perfect for an intimate dining experience or an impressive corporate function, Machiavelli caters to all occasions.

Situated in the spectacular surrounds of the Finger Wharf at Woolloomooloo, OTTO has an undeniable reputation as one of Sydney's most respected dining institutions. The food at OTTO is delicious and unashamedly simple modern Italian with roots firmly placed in the classics. Head Chef Richard Ptacnik's menu is fresh, seasonal and produce-driven; sourcing the finest ingredients and letting them speak for themselves. When you dine at OTTO, you are truly living la dolce vita.

Blink and you’ll miss Alberto’s Lounge, hidden down a nondescript street, this Italian restaurant is making its mark on Sydney’s food scene. The majority of the restaurant is reserved for walk-ins so join the queue, grab a glass of wine and work up an appetite. With former 10 William Street chef Dan Pepperell behind the pots and pans, it’s little surprise that the menu at Alberto’s Lounge is kicking goals however it’s more Italian- Australian than true Italian, in the best possible way. T

This restaurant is aptly named "good memories," which is exactly what diners have been taking away from Buon Ricordo since it opened its Paddington doors in 1987. Today, waiters in trim white jackets fuss over patrons who sample the glory of classical Italian hospitality. The cuisine is traditional, with authentic Italian flavours and techniques on display. The wine list is Italian-based to round off your European dining experience.

The Cipri brothers are well-known among Sydney foodies and their latest restaurant, Cipri Italian, is another great eatery to add to their repertoire. Combing the extravagance of Milan and the taste of Tuscany, Cipri brings together the very best of Italian style, along with an atmosphere that welcomes fashionistas, families and everyone in between. The restaurant is available for functions for up to 85 guests seated and there is street-side parking, which is a bonus for this area.

Make a bee-line to Il Baretto restaurant in Paddington, where lip-smacking good Italian fare compels the punters to wait it out for a coveted seat. The restaurant offers an assortment of specials changing fortnightly (take a peek at the giant paper menu attached to the wall). This is simple Italian cookery at its best.