The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney

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.

 

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

A vibrant neighbourhood trattoria located in the heart of Double Bay; we bring the spirit of the Southern Italian lifestyle to Sydney; capturing the flavours, energy and relaxed lifestyle inspired by the Amalfi Coast. Our food concept takes inspiration from the iconic Italian coastline Campania; the birthplace of pizza, and a region where wood-fired fare, fresh mozzarella, locally-grown tomatoes and seafood are at the heart of dining.

Established in the bustling ivy precinct in Sydney, Bar Totti is where you can experience laid-back Italian dining without the air fare. Graze of bread served straight from the wood fire oven with a selection of antipasti before moving onto the mains inspired classic Italian menus. Just like it’s big brother in Bondi, the bar is a minimal, stripped back, chic decor with rich timbers and windows that look onto the comings and goings of George Street. Great for groups or a romantic bite to eat

With a bevvy of hospitality heavyweights behind this venture, it’s no surprise that pizzeria Bella Brutta has hit the ground running. Luke Powell and his partner Tania Houghton (of Chippendale’s LP’s Quality Meats), together with Elvis Abrahanowicz, Joe Valore and Sarah Doyle (of Porteno and Continental Deli Bar and Bistro) have joined forces to create this Italian restaurant on King Street in Newtown. For groups of over eight there is a special Chefs Menu from $60 to choose from.

BYO and barefoot-friendly", Ormeggio's casual yet quality sister site Chiosco by Ormeggio is a real Italian trattoria by the sea with stunning views.  Only 12 km from the city centre, or 20 minutes in a water taxi, Chiosco is a small jump from the CBD but offers incredible privacy and easy access.  A western facing waterside dining room to fully enjoy the sunset, a fully licensed bar plus BYO options, and of course classic and delicious traditional Italian fare, this is a crowd pleasing venue for groups small and large.

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.

Lucky Balmain residents are lucky to have Fiori Italian, serving traditional, hearty and fresh home made pasta and pizzas in a building lovingly designed to represent a little bit of Portofino in a vibrant setting. The well chosen wine list includes wines from Italy and Australia.  Fiori Italian is an ideal venue for a family celebration, or any event with catering for up to 80 guests.

 

Photography Courtesy of Forli Italian

Glorietta, situated in North Sydney, offers a modern Italian dining experience with a chic, open-plan setting. The menu features a variety of pizzas, including the popular Margherita, Beesting, and Funghi. Antipasti options like pumpkin & taleggio arancini and burrata with beetroot and basil pesto are favourites, alongside comforting pasta dishes such as rigatoni in spicy vodka sauce. The venue also boasts an extensive drinks menu, making it ideal for both casual lunches and evening gatherings.