OTTO RISTORANTE
Sydney, NSW

Italian sophistication meets Sydney affluence at Otto where the well dressed, the media moguls and the seekers of fabulous Italiano fare choose to dine. With the ripples of the harbour gently lapping against the squillion dollar cruise-liners that are moored at the wharf, Otto is simply dripping in good taste. The ristorante is dressed stylishly in white with a few key design features that bring a little glamour to an otherwise bright and airy space. Taking best advantage of its coveted location, tables sprawl out under an awning that adjusts with the sun's rays. Inside, the dining room welcomes in the light and scales up to a second level that is usually reserved for private functions.

FOOD & BEVERAGE
Chef Richard Ptacnik has successfully reinvented the flavours of the land of the long leather boot with finesse, and each dish is presented so beautifully that it's almost a shame to let your fork get close. Begin with a few oysters and a crisp glass of Rose as you settle into your seat and take in the vista. Pasture-fed beef carpaccio with truffle dressing, aioli, capers, parmesan and baby rocket leaves is a delightfully delicate entree. Follow with saffron infused maccheroncini with braised rabbit and gremolata or, for something a little more robust, New Zealandlamb backstrap with eggplant, binnorie fetta, semi-dried tomatoes, olive powder and salsa verde. Finish fittingly with a frangelico affagato. The extensive wine list provides ample opportunity to discover Italy's varied regions, and there are plenty of home-grown drops too.