Aperitivo strikes the perfect balance between Italian tradition and modern charm. It’s a celebration of golden hour done right — think shared plates, vibrant cocktails (yes, there’s Aperol Spritz) and great company. The wood-fired pizza bar pays homage to time-honoured recipes, with a menu that feels like a love letter to Italy’s culinary soul. Friday nights bring live music to kick off the weekend vibes, and if you’ve got little ones along for the ride, the kids’ play area means you can relax while they stay happily entertained. 

If it’s vegan pizza you’re after, Gigi Pizzeria is your go-to, nestled in the heart of King Street (or ‘Eat Street’ as Sydneysiders affectionately call it). As one of just five Australian members of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, Gigi follows classic techniques to create a truly authentic Neapolitan pizza. Whether you order a ‘Salsiccia E Broccoli’, ‘Melanzane’ or good old Marinara, you’ll be getting a slice of the real deal with some of the best pizza in the Inner West. 

Located in Balmain, Forli Italian is a Portofino-style home where the pizza is handmade with love, the atmosphere is vibrant, and the hospitality is unmistakably warm. There’s a wide selection of Italian and Australian wines to go with your slice of choice, whether you're enjoying a wood-fired margherita or a truffle-laced special. And if you’ve got room for dessert, the tiramisu is the perfect sweet note to finish your meal. 

Inspired by Southern Italian cuisine, SUD Food brings the vibrant, sun-drenched flavours of the Mediterranean to the cosmopolitan suburb of Concord. The décor balances rustic charm with modern touches, creating a space that feels both homely and refined. The menu features wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted pastas, slow-cooked starters, and a thoughtfully curated selection of Italian wines, rounding out a truly delicious dining experience. 

For an authentic Northern Italian ristorante experience, look no further than Matteo Downtown, conveniently located in the beating centre of Sydney CBD. Featuring two imported wood-fired ovens from Italy – one for Roman-style pizza, and the second dedicated to meats and specialty dishes – the Matteo menu will transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast with every bite. 

Another standout for a meat-free dinner, Pizza Madre has earned its reputation with a wild-fermented sourdough base made exclusively from sustainably grown Australian flours — no imports here. The menu is entirely vegetarian and vegan, with pizzas featuring their signature vegan mozzarella that’s truly to die for. The drinks list also impresses, spotlighting Australian-made wines, beers, and spirits from small, independent producers.