40 Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney [2024]

Italian Restaurant Sydney

Looking for a delicious Italian meal in Sydney? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 40 best Italian restaurant Sydney for you to try. From classic pasta dishes to modern pizza creations, these restaurants will have something to satisfy everyone’s cravings. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your culinary adventure today!

1) CicciaBella

Key Service	Modern Italian restaurant and bar
Address	153 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150
Website	https://cicciabella.com.au/
Phone	02 8090 6979
Email	info@cicciabella.com.au
Operating Hours	Mon closed Tues closed Wed 12pm-3pm & 5pm – 10pm Thu 12pm-3pm & 5pm – 10pm Fri 12pm-3pm & 5pm – 11pm Sat 12pm-3pm & 5pm – 11pm Sun 12pm-3pm & 5pm – 10pm

The star of Maurice Terzini’s CicciaBella is handmade pasta. The trattoria, which is located in Parramatta Square and inspired by cucina povera (poor people’s cooking), strives for simplicity and quality. According to its website, “CicciaBella Is an ideal place for an after-work aperitivo, a date-night dinner or long, leisurely lunch with the crew—it even offers a three-course Italian feast with two hours of bottomless wine on weekends.”

Key Differentiators:

• Well-prepared dishes
• Serves cocktails and desserts
• Very accommodating staff

Customer’s Review:

The staff provided great and attentive service throughout our visit. Our meal was spaced out well from entrees to main meal. The food was prepared well and we enjoyed our dinner. Thank you.

Gin M

2) Alberto’s Lounge

Key Service	Innovative and modern Italian restaurant
Address	17-19 Alberta street Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia 2010
Website	https://www.facebook.com/albertosloungesydney/
Email	pasta@albertoslounge.com
Operating Hours	Monday 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

The name of Alberto’s Lounge is appropriate, as it has a laidback and comfortable atmosphere with excellent cuisine and a wide selection of wines. It’s a favorite and something to have on hand for date night for those who have visited its intimate, wood-paneled location. With plenty of old-school movie posters and retro art as well as an always-amazing playlist that elevates the mood, the Surry Hills restaurant exudes cool in the most literal sense of the word.

Key Differentiators:

• Creative Italian dishes
• Great wine selection
• Intimate and comfortable setting

Customer’s Review:

Had a lovely dinner here with a friend, the menu was short but succinct and everything on it looked enticing and authentic – and they most certainly were. The restaurant was vibrant and packed, the service was timely and friendly. A very cosy place to enjoy a good meal. Definitely book beforehand, the restaurant gets very busy and all the tables are packed out.

Jacqueline

3) Paski Vineria Popolare

Key Service	Serves artisanal small-scale Italian wine
Address	239 Oxford St., Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Website	https://paski.com.au/
Email	ciao@paski.com.au
Operating Hours	DOWNSTAIRS Monday to Saturday from 5pm till late UPSTAIRS Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 5pm till late

Set in the middle of some bordered-up shopfronts and convenience stores on Oxford Street, you’ll find Paski Vineria Popolare. Paski is the brainchild of former Italian go-to 121BC and co-founder of Rootstock, Giorgio De Maria, alongside Mattia Dicati (Vino Mito Wine Imports) and chef Enrico Tomelleri (Ragazzi, Alberto’s Lounge, 10 William Street). You could call De Maria the godfather of natural wine, With that said, it makes sense that his newest venture has a lot of it—and we mean a lot.

Key Differentiators:

• Lovely wine bar with great pastas and wine selection
• Knowledgeable staff
• Two-storey restaurant, bar, and bottleshop

Customer’s Review:

Had a really nice time in the upstairs restaurant. The wine bar downstairs is also excellent. The staff is extremely pleasant, particularly Julia who kept us laughing while busily going about her work. Will gladly come again!

Elliot Wasow

4) I Maccheroni

Key Service	Italian restaurant with masterclasses
Address	3 Jersey Rd.,Woollahra, 2025 NSW
Website	https://imaccheroni.com.au/
Phone	0403 478 995
Email	info@imaccheroni.com.au
Operating Hours	Daily 5–11PM

Humble and Woollahra may not appear to go together, but at I Maccheroni on Jersey Road, the word play works. Marcello Farioli, the owner/chef of this Jersey Road restaurant, hails from Emilia Romagna in Italy, which is known as the epicenter of Italian cuisine.

Key Differentiators:

• Uses Australian local produce
• Authentically effortless menu
• Classic Italian recipes

Customer’s Review:

We absolutely loved our experience at I Maccheroni, the food was all perfect and so delicious! The restaurant itself is so cute and well decorated. Would highly recommend, we can’t wait to go back.

Stephanie Alexander

5) PELLEGRINO 2000

Key Service	Great atmosphere and buzzy relaxed vibe
Address	80 Campbell St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Website	https://www.pellegrino2000.com/
Phone	02 8593 0114
Operating Hours	Daily 5PM – late

Dan Pepperell, Mikey Clift, and Andy Tyson’s brand-new Surry Hills venue has been one of Sydney’s most anticipated debuts of the year. Expect neighborhood vibes and character in abundance, as the corner terrace is inspired by trattorias in Rome and Florence. The main dining area is on the ground floor, with shelves piled high with anchovies and tomatoes. A double-sided espresso bar is also on the ground level. With bottle-lined walls, white table cloths, and a candlelit thousand-bottle wine cellar, the basement level oozes the atmosphere as well.

Key Differentiators:

• Inspired by trattorias in Rome and Florence
• Ground floor has a double-sided espresso bar
• The basement level has a candlelit thousand-bottle wine cellar

Customer’s Review:

A Roman focussed trattoria with a retro bar and moody wine cellar serving knockout antipasto such as artichokes, livers, tripe as well as a selection of beautiful pastas. They have a gluten free pasta option too which made me so happy. Hopefully they have GF bread too at some stage. So happy we left room for dolci! Limongello and banana creme caramel and they were divine! Such a cool place! Can’t wait to go back!

Monika Cozzupoli

6) 10 William St

Key Service	Small Italian restaurant and bar
Address	10 William St, Paddington NSW 2021, Australia
Website	https://10williamst.com.au/
Phone	02 9360 3310
Email	info@10williamst.com.au
Operating Hours	Monday – open from 5pm until late Tuesday – open from 5pm until late Wednesday – open from 5pm until late Thursday – open from 5pm until late Friday – open from midday until late Saturday – open from midday until late Sunday closed

Whatever you want to call it, one thing is certain: 10 William St is one of the most lively Italian restaurants in all of Sydney. Always full, this hole-in-the-wall is the perfect location for a date or a group of eager friends. The menu consists of only a few items at any given time, but they’re all excellent.

Key Differentiators:

• Seasonal menu
• Lively and fun atmosphere
• Menu consists of only a few items, but they’re all excellent

Customer’s Review:

Very hard place to get a booking but I can see why. The food here is unpretentious and delicious and the wine list is extensive and pairs well with the food on offer. The menu offered is refined and I think with a table of four, you can easily taste the whole menu! Other than the pretzel dish, the menu rotates often. Definitely worth a try if you’re into Italian food with a contemporary twist!

Gerald Li

7) Bastardo

Key Service	Open-plan kitchen type of restaurant
Address	50 Holt St, Surry Hills NSW
Website	https://www.porteno.com.au/venue/bastardo
Phone	02 9435 0800
Operating Hours	DINNER Tues-Thur 5 : 45 PM – 11 PM Fri-Sat 5 : 00 PM – 11 PM LUNCH 12 PM – 4 PM

Bastardo has had a big influence on the Sydney dining scene. It’s no surprise, because the deli-style Italian restaurant is made up of a group of legends that created Porteño and Wyno x Bodega. They draw on their shared Argentine and Sicilian heritage to provide an extensive selection of fresh pasta made in the main kitchen that runs down the length of the restaurant. The spaghetti has a stretchy texture with a firm bite, yet it has that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth quality associated with craftsmanship. In white wine sauce, little clams and bursting pockets of ‘nduja make for a delicious spaghetti option.

Key Differentiators:

• Extensive list of fresh pasta
• Spaghetti with clams and ‘nduja in a white wine sauce
• 150-strong wine list

Customer’s Review:

Really really good Italian food! A standout comment regarding the service was how fast the food came out. I would 1000% go to Bastardo again for the food. This place was quite unassuming as you approach the big bold green sign outside (which feels like a takeaway joint), but when you’re inside it’s cozy, loud and unpretentious. Great place for a casual date night dinner or catch-up with friends!

Olivia Lee

8) Ragazzi

Key Service	40-seater restaurant
Address	Shop 3, 2-12 Angel Place, Sydney CBD
Website	https://ragazziwineandpasta.com/pasta/
Phone	02 8964 3062
Email	ciao@ragazziwineandpasta.com
Operating Hours	Mon – Sat 11.30am – 12am Sun 11.30am – 5pm

Sydneysiders can’t get enough of the European wine bar experience, and Ragazzi is proof. With a lengthy bottle list and simple menu focused on quick bites and pasta, it’s the perfect place for after-work relaxation—if you can get in. The 40-seater in Angel Place gets busy on weekdays and is a great spot for soaking up the vibrant energy of downtown over a sharp bowl of pasta. pinnacle.

Key Differentiators:

• Intimate interior
• Accommodating and insightful staff
• Incredible and extensive wine list

Customer’s Review:

Great Italian lunch/date spot. Had seen this in top restaurant lists and places to try and it is where it should be. Intimate interior and outside is really cool if you can get a spot. Incredible staff that was very accommodating and insightful. The pasta was delicious and Al Dente, all the food was the incredible and their extensive wine list. Highly recommend Ragazzi as a restaurant to try in Sydney.

Dante Mariotto

9) Fratelli Paradiso

Key Service	Passionately European service
Address	12 – 16 Challis Ave, Potts Point, NSW 2011
Website	https://fratelliparadiso.com/
Phone	90638180
Email	fratelli@fratelliparadiso.com
Operating Hours	Tuesday – midday to 11pm Wednesday – midday to 11pm Thursday – midday to 11pm Friday – midday to 11pm Saturday – midday to 11pm

Fratelli Paradiso has it all. The cuisine is excellent, and the service is passionate European, as you would expect with three Italians—Marco Ambrosino and brothers Giovanni and Enrico Paradiso—behind it. It’s always bustling with an intriguing mix of customers eating, celebrating, or drinking, whether it’s during the week or on weekends.

Key Differentiators:

• 20 years of experience
• Fine pasta
• Busy atmosphere with interesting mix of patrons

Customer’s Review:

We had a group of several people in our booking and the venue was able seat us very well. Everything we ordered came out in a timely manner and the quality was amazing. The atmosphere was very cosmopolitan and stylish. Parking can be tricky but worth the walk!

Giovanni

10) Kindred

Key Service	Intimate Italian restarurant
Address	137 Cleveland St, Darlington NSW 2008
Website	https://www.kindredrestaurant.com.au/
Phone	02 8937-0530
Email	info@kindredrestaurant.com.au
Operating Hours	Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday 5:30pm – last booking 8:45pm Lunch: Friday and Saturday 12:00pm – last booking 2:15pm

You’ll walk by a hundred times on Cleveland Street without knowing what treasures are inside until someone tells you. The first thing that comes to mind is “cosy.” The cozy restaurant has a capacity of 40 people and is located on two levels of the Darlington terrace, which exudes homey charm.

Key Differentiators:

• Has menu for vegetarians
• Friendly service
• Cosy vibe

Customer’s Review:

Kindred last night was amazing. From service to food everything was on point. Manager was accommodating when we asked to move tables. Waiter was friendly and very experienced. But the food, oh the food.

Amy

11) Beppi’s

Key Service	Very good customer service
Address	21 Yurong Street (Cnr Stanley St) East Sydney, NSW 2010
Website	https://www.beppis.com.au/
Phone	(02) 9360-4558
Email	beppis@beppis.com.au
Operating Hours	Monday to Friday for Lunch from 12 noon to 3pm Monday to Saturday for Dinner from 6.00pm

If you’re searching for an old-school Italian flair, there’s only one place to go: Beppi’s. The historical Darlinghurst restaurant has been serving cuisine since June 1956. To put it another way, back in the 1960s, Elvis was topping the charts, Menzies was prime minister, and TVs didn’t exist in Australia yet. Yep, a lot has changed—except at Beppi’s Yurong Street restaurant, which is still dishing out simple and beautiful Italian food.

Key Differentiators:

• Historical Italian restaurant
• Simple and beautiful Italian food
• Been in business for over 60 years

Customer’s Review:

A fantastic experience! The wait staff were experienced, insightful, helpful, generous and delightfully friendly.  They we’re only outdone by the chefs when the food was delivered to our table. Beautifully prepared meals and deserts that are among the very very best you’ll ever experience. We’ll definitely be back.

Joe Salamanca

12) Pasta Emilia

Key Service	Warm and friendly Itlaian restaurant
Address	259 Riley St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Website	https://emilia.com.au/
Phone	92121069
Operating Hours	Tuesday to Friday from 5:30pm to 10:00pm Saturday 12:00pm to 3:00 pm (lunch) and from 5:30pm to 10:00pm (dinner) Sunday and Monday- Closed

Pasta Emilia is a warm and inviting local restaurant in Surry Hills, Sydney, that looks like it was transplanted from Italy and relocated here. We’re sure they have more options on the menu, but let’s face it: if you come here, you must order the pasta. Beef ragu, spinach linguini, duck tortelli with truffle filling—it doesn’t matter which one you choose; they are all a culinary gift from the flour gods. They also host cooking lessons and offer food to take home (and cook).

Key Differentiators:

• Certified organic pasta
• Great selection of pasta dishes
• Host cooking classes and sell products to cook with at home

Customer’s Review:

Love everything about this restaurant. As soon as you walk in, you’re transported to another place filled with delectable food, good music, cozy space and friendly staff. Definitely won’t be my last.

Neo Downunder

13) a’Mare

Key Service	Classically themed restaurant
Address	Crown Sydney, Level 1/1 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000, Australia
Website	https://www.crownhotels.com.au/sydney/restaurants-bars/a-mare
Phone	02 8871 7171
Email	RestaurantReservations@crownsydney.com.au
Operating Hours	Lunch Wednesday – Sunday: 12pm – 2.30pm (Last booking 2:30pm) Dinner Tuesday – Thursday: 5.30pm – 12m Friday – Saturday: 5.45pm – 1am Sunday: 5:45pm – 12am

a’Mare, a refined, classically themed restaurant in the Crown Sydney tower run by Pasta Master Alessandro Pavoni, is emblematic of this elegant establishment. a’Mare serves to the high-end desires of the Crown’s intended high roller audience with serious polish and attentive service. As such, only the finest of the best is served here. Rustic dishes inspired by rural Italy are on offer at Pavoni. Beef carpaccio and fresh burrata are two options, but fresh fish and rock lobster also get their due consideration.

Key Differentiators:

• Impeccable service
• Offers rustic dishes inspired by the Italian countryside
• Fine dining Italian restaurant

Customer’s Review:

We thoroughly enjoyed our anniversary lunch here! I love how interactive the restaurant is, with many dishes being served table side. We recommend the pesto in particular. Will definitely be returning and recommend all to go!

Bella Marcellos

14) Buon Ricordo

Key Service	Old-school Italian dining
Address	108 Boundary Street, Paddington, NSW
Website	https://buonricordo.com.au/
Phone	02 9360 6729
Operating Hours	Dinner Wednesday-Saturday 5:30pm-10pm Lunch Friday-Saturday 12pm-3pm

A couple of years ago, this old-school Italian fine diner, located in the backstreets of Paddington, changed hands and head chefs after 34 years in the biz. Owner Armando Percuoco sold Buon Ricordo to his protege, head chef David Wright and his wife Rosalba Bertocci, and, thankfully, it’s landed in four very capable hands. From entrees of kingfish crudo with crystallised Campari to rich pastas and incredible mains, the fare here is second to none.

Key Differentiators:

• Serves blend of classical dishes
• Passionate and capable new owners
• Kingfish crudo with crystallised Campari is a must-try dish

Customer’s Review:

Really enjoyed dining at Buon Ricordo. Haven’t been here in years but the truffle egg Fettuccine brings back fond memories!

Bernard Shen

15) Marta

Key Service	Mixed Italian-Roman dishes
Address	30 McLachlan Ave, Rushcutters Bay NSW 2010, Australia
Website	https://marta.com.au/
Phone	+61293616641
Operating Hours	Tues to Sun 7:30AM–3PM, 5–10PM

In a tree-shaded park, this refined Roman restaurant has an indoor-outdoor design that makes it ideal for warm summer evenings spent in its community yet intimate dining area. Owner Flavio Carnevale has created a space that exudes the energy and drama of Rome’s famed drinking holes. On the menu, you’ll find fried gnocchi, burrata, veal meatballs, pasta, pizza Romana, veal cutlets, chilli spatchcock, sides, and desserts among other things. Marta also offers spritz-inspired cocktails and wines from Flavio’s handmade terracotta decanters that are quite neat.

Key Differentiators:

• Contemporary Italian restaurant
• Classy indoor-outdoor design
• Housemade gelato

Customer’s Review:

This was incredible, came for a birthday party and I have to say this is some of the best Italian food I’ve ever had!

derek habashy

16) Icebergs Bar & Dining Room

Key Service	Modern Italian dishes
Address	1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026, Australia
Website	https://idrb.com/
Phone	61 2 9365 9000
Email	idrb@idrb.com
Operating Hours	Wed to Sun 12–11PM

If you’re ever in Sydney, Icebergs is an iconic destination you cannot miss. Not only does it have one of the most incredible views of the city, but the food isilings are flawless. The sleek modern interior was designed to match the turquoise ocean surrounding it and the service is polished and cool. And since 2002, restaurateur Maurice Terzini has nurtured what has now become quite the Australian institution.

Key Differentiators:

• Seasonal Italian dining
• Serves brekkie staples
• Elegant space with a deck overlooking the sea

Customer’s Review:

Stunning lunch! The service was absolutely impeccable and the food & view were equally good match. Without doubt one of Sydney’s best restaurants.

Ed Garnsey

17) Osteria Di Russo & Russo

Key Service	Australian-Italian fusion cuisine
Address	158 Enmore Road, Enmore, NSW
Website	https://www.russoandrusso.net.au/
Phone	+61 2 8068 5202
Operating Hours	Open for dinner Tuesday – Sunday 6pm – Late Open for lunch Sunday 12pm – 2:30

Enmore’s Osteria di Russo & Russo is your go-to destination for a wide range of authentic Italian meals with an Australian twist. The restaurant, which is named after the family that runs it, honours Australia’s hundreds of thousands of Italian immigrants and their contribution on the continent. Owned by father-and-son team Pino and Marc Russo, the establishment pays tribute to Australia’s hundreds of thousands of Italian migrants and their role in shaping the nation.

Key Differentiators:

• A range of authentic Italian dishes
• Named after the family that runs it
• Pays tribute to Australia’s Italian migrants

Customer’s Review:

Had a fantastic experience here! The food was absolutely incredible and the service was wonderful. We will definitely be back! Highly recommend it!

Stephanie Nguyen

18) Ormeggio At The Spit

Key Service	Sustainable Italian restaurant
Address	D’Albora Marina The Spit, Spit Road Mosman 2088
Website	https://www.ormeggio.com.au/
Phone	+612 9969 4088
Email	info@ormeggio.com.au
Operating Hours	Monday Closed Tuesday Closed Wednesday Dinner from 5:30pm Thursday Dinner from 5:30pm Friday Lunch from 11:30am | Dinner from 5:30pm Saturday Lunch from 11:30am | Dinner from 5:30pm Sunday Lunch from 11:30am | Dinner from 5:30pm

Overlooking the water, Ormeggio At The Spit treats diners to superb contemporary Italian food and some of the finest Sydney views. The awarded restaurant uses the highest-quality produce, along with new and traditional cooking techniques to create the superb Ormeggio experience. Recently, the restaurant underwent a revamp, making its waterfront digs more casual and shifting to a more sustainable and entirely meat-free menu. It might not be the finest of fine diners on the list, sure, but it does upscale casual dining very, very well.

Key Differentiators:

• Superb contemporary Italian food
• Sustainable and entirely meat-free menu
• Waterfront location with stunning views

Customer’s Review:

The food here is outstanding, it’s some of the best Italian I’ve had. The service is also amazing, they’re very attentive and make sure you’re happy with everything. Highly recommend it!

Drewsif Stalin

19) LuMi Dining

Key Service	Italian-Japanese restaurant
Address	56 Pirrama Road Pyrmont, 2009 NSW
Website	https://www.lumidining.com/
Phone	+61 2 9571 1999
Email	info@lumidining.com
Operating Hours	Thur to Sun DINNER from 6pm to 8.30pm Sat to Sun LUNCH from 12 pm to 1.30pm

LuMi Dining, located at Wharf 10 in Pyrmont, is lit by a ceiling of hanging pendant lights. When you’re told that LuMi means “little lights,” the beautiful interior design choice becomes all the more apparent. You’ll get a truly distinctive and luxurious dining experience—the view of the port is tremendous, service is excellent, and the quality of food is really top level. If you want genuine Italian cooking, LuMi isn’t for you. The fine diner is Italian by birth but has a Japanese spin on its cuisine.

Key Differentiators:

• Italian fine dining with a Japanese twist
• Luxurious setting with stunning harbour views
• Flawless service

Customer’s Review:

Fantastic experience here at LuMi. We went with a group of 6 for the Omakase option and it was delicious! Some incredible service as well, very friendly and accommodating.

Starnub

20) Totti’s

Key Service	Fast service
Address	283 Bondi Rd, Bondi NSW 2026, Australia
Website	https://merivale.com/venues/tottis/
Phone	+61 2 9114 7371
Operating Hours	Mon-Sat12:00 pm – 10:00 pm Sun12:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Following that is Totti’s, one of Sydney’s most renowned Italian destinations. This magnificent Italian eatery is located out back of a little worn-around-the-edges pub. When you sit in the lovely Bondi courtyard home to one of Sydney’s best Italian restaurants, you’ll be looking at every dish that goes by.

Key Differentiators:

• Vibrant Italian restaurant
• Delicious freshly baked Woodfired bread
• Located in a beautiful Bondi courtyard

Customer’s Review:

One of the best Italian restaurants in Bondi, I would say. Love the lightness and hue of the ambience, and texture, pairing/combination, and freshness of ingredients used.

不惑:cogent

21) Matteo

Key Service	Inspired by the big all-day dining restaurants of Milan and Rome
Address	29 Bay Street, Double Bay, NSW, 2028
Website	https://www.matteosydney.com/
Phone	‍02 9327 8015
Email	doublebay@matteosydney.com
Operating Hours	Tuesday | 5 pm to 10 pm Wednesday | 5 pm to 10 pm Thursday | 5 pm to 10 pm Friday | 12 pm to 11.30 pm Saturday | 12 pm to 11.30 pm Sunday | 12 pm to 10 pm

Matteo is one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in Sydney, due to the chef having grown up in Italy. With every dish on the menu being bright and vibrant, it’s no wonder why pizza is a crowd favorite. What’s more, this is just one of two Matteo Italian restaurants in Sydney- so you know the owners are doing something right!

Key Differentiators:

• Vibrant and fresh dishes
• Pizza is a crowd favorite
• Two locations in Sydney

Customer’s Review:

A most enjoyable evening. Greeted with friendly smiles and had the pleasure of eating delicious fresh Italian food. Every dish we selected was cooked to perfection. The bread and bread sticks are freshly made on site. I will definitely go back.

Margarita Sozomenou

22) Two Chaps

Key Service	Specialty coffee & organic Mediterranean dishes
Address	122 Chapel St. Marrickville NSW 2204
Website	https://www.twochaps.com.au/
Phone	(02) 9572 8858
Email	info@twochaps.com.au
Operating Hours	Mon 7:30am-3:00pm Tue 7:30am-3:00pm Wed 7:30am-3:00pm Thur 7:30am-3:00pm Fri 7:30am-3:00pm | 6:00pm & 8:15pm Sittings Sat 8:00am-3:00pm | 6:00pm & 8:15pm Sittings Sun 8:00am-3:00pm

When thinking of Italian food, Two Chaps is not likely the first restaurant that comes to mind. But they should be! They use Mediterranean flavors to create their sandwiches, cakes and muffins– giving them a taste like nothing you’ve ever had before. Plus, they roast their own coffee beans on site; making for a delicious cup of joe. So come for the food but stay for the experience!

Key Differentiators:

• Supports local produce
• Serves hand-made bread and pastries
• Handmade fresh pasta and local cheeses

Customer’s Review:

Funky warehouse vegetarian cafe hidden in the backstreets of Marrickville. We had the smoked eggplant burger and brown rice bowl – both were very tasty and full of flavour. The service was polite and friendly. We will definitely be back to try the other meals! Highly recommended!

Terence Ha

23) deVita

Key Service	Serves the taste of Napoli, Italy
Address	2-8 Darley Road, 2095 Manly – NSW
Website	https://devita.net.au/
Phone	(0481) 363791
Email	info@devita.net.au
Operating Hours	Mon-Sun 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Between well-known pizzerias such as Da Mario, Pizza Madre, Matteo Double Bay, and Lucio’s, the city is spoilt for choice. Fortunately for you, we have a list of the top pizza in Sydney. But it’s Manly’s DeVita with their bespoke wood oven that holds a unique place in our hearts, overpowering much of the competition to become one of Sydney’s most consistent love songs to Napoli cuisine.

Key Differentiators:

• Wood-fired pizza
• Buzzy eatery
• With exposed beams and vintage lights

Customer’s Review:

Definitely the best pizza place in Manly. Doesn’t try to be over-fancy; just makes really good, classic pizzas. BYO wine. Nice atmosphere inside the restaurant. Friendly staff. Meter-long pizza is a great choice for tables of 4.

Thomas B

24) Busta

Key Service	Hand-rolled pasta
Address	2-12 Pittwater Road, Manly, NSW
Website	https://www.busta.com.au/
Phone	(02) 8966 9917
Email	pasta@busta.com.au
Operating Hours	Monday 5–10PM Tuesday 5–10PM Wednesday 5–10PM Thursday 5–10PM Friday 5–10PM Saturday 12–10PM Sunday 4–9PM

You could say business at Busta is thriving… The same people who own ChicaBonita and Sunset Sabi set up shop here, so they know a thing or two about running a successful restaurant. They make fresh, hand-rolled pasta every day, and the warm lighting will ensure you have a pleasant dining experience.

Key Differentiators:

• Fresh and seasonal produce
• Warm lighting
• Friendly staff

Customer’s Review:

Came here on Good Friday and would highly recommend this place if you’re looking for good food, nice vibe and great service. The tiramisu is a must-grab to end the night!

Cindy Chau

25) Machiavelli Ristorante

Key Service	Longstanding family-run establishment
Address	123 Clarence St Sydney NSW, 2000
Website	https://www.machiavelli.com.au/
Phone	02 9299 3748
Email	reservations@machiavelli.com.au
Operating Hours	Mon to Sat 12–3PM, 6–9:30PM

The pasta is never overcooked with the right amount of sauce, the meats are always tender and juicy, and Machiavelli’s desserts will leave you feeling content. Given that it’s one of Sydney’s oldest Italian restaurants dating back to 1988, it comes as no surprise that Machiavelli has outlasted many competitors by serving some of the best Italian cuisine for business lunches or client meetings.

Key Differentiators:

• Serving refined Italian dishes in simple, warm environs
• The meats are always tender and juicy
• Machiavelli’s desserts will leave you feeling content

Customer’s Review:

Oh my god. Fantastic 5-star Italian dining experience. I didn’t get what I originally wanted elsewhere in the city and had to book this as a last resort, but wow! What a great atmosphere, exquisite food, and friendly + accommodating staff. The whole night we felt like royalty! A great way to spend our 3rd year anniversary.

Raphael

26) Lucio Pizzeria

Key Service	Authentic Neapolitan pizza
Address	248 Palmer St. Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
Website	https://luciopizzeria.com.au/
Phone	(02) 9332 3766
Email	darlo@luciopizzeria.com.au
Operating Hours	Dinner Monday 6pm-9.30pm Wednesday 6pm-9.30pm Thursday 6pm-9.30pm Friday 5pm-9.30pm Saturday 5pm-9.30pm Sunday 5pm-9.30pm

Certainly one of the most well-known Italian restaurants in Sydney. Lucio Pizzeria has been so crowded ever since being named Australia’s best pizza that it’s been difficult to snag a reservation. You won’t be able to buy the cheapest pizza you’ve ever eaten, but the food coma that comes with it will make you feel fantastic.

Key Differentiators:

• Using beautiful fresh produce sourced both locally and from around Australia
• Fresh and simple ingredients 
• Great selection of Italian wines, beers and spirits

Customer’s Review:

Pizza was a little over cooked, leaves it with a slight burned taste, other than that it was fresh and delicious, tiramisu is made in house, very delicious but could use a little more liqueur and the Italian hot chocolate was flavourful and the right consistency but it wasn’t stirred quite enough and there were a few small clumps at the bottom, other than that it was a perfect night out, the staff were fantastic and attentive, quick and excellent service here and I would highly recommend the place.

Jack

27) BISTECCA

Key Service	Rustic, adult-only steakhouse Italian restaurant
Address	3 Dalley Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Website	https://www.bistecca.com.au/
Phone	(02) 8067 0450
Operating Hours	Monday to Saturday 12:00pm – late

Tucked away in a city basement, BISTECCA is hidden behind a cocktail bar. Upon arrival, you’re asked to hand over your phone before being seated for dinner. No, this isn’t some sort of cult or human trafficking ring–it’s just really good Italian food. The main attraction here are the steaks; three fingers thick and cooked according to your liking. Due to its immense popularity, be sure to book ahead of time!

Key Differentiators:

• Extensive cocktail menu
• Specializing in Italian fare
• Popular for its steak

Customer’s Review:

The ambience was lovely. The beef/duck fat candle was an unique touch. We ordered multiple starters and sides. Nothing to fault. Steak was also cooked to perfection. Cocktails menu was quite small – might be better to order wine if you’re here.

C Y

28) Pino’s Vino e Cucina

Key Service	Classic & creative Italian dishes
Address	199 Lawrence St., Alexandria, NSW 2015
Website	https://www.pinosvinoecucina.com.au/
Phone	(+61) 0467 199 808
Email	info@pinosvinoecucina.com.au
Operating Hours	Tue – Sat 5.30p–11.30p Sun 5.30p–10p

Eat like a king (or queen) at Pino’s Vino e Cucina! This cosy, fancy Italian restaurant tucked away in the quiet streets of Alexandria offers squid, quail, and mussels – it’s like the weirdest (and tastiest) zoo you’ve never been to. And if you’re feeling extra carnivorous, order the full kilo T-bone Black Angus steak – it looks like it was cut off a dinosaur!

Key Differentiators:

• Robust wine list
• Cozy, romantic atmosphere
• Serves T-bone Black Angus steak

Customer’s Review:

Amazing restaurant! We had a lovely dinner here and the ambiance was amazing, service was excellent and the food was divine. Would 100% recommend it to anyone who likes to eat! Also a shout out to the best negroni I’ve ever had.

Ian

29) The Dolphin Hotel

Key Service	Provenance-driven modern Italo-Australian food
Address	412 Crown St Surry Hills, 2010 Sydney NSW Australia
Website	https://dolphinhotel.com.au/
Phone	9331 4800
Email	info@dolphinhotel.com.au
Operating Hours	Monday – Wednesday 12pm – LATE Thursday – Saturday 12pm – 12midnight Sunday 12pm – 10pm

The Dolphin Hotel has three different sections – the bar, restaurant, and wine room – so you can choose what kind of night you want to have. If you’re looking for a relaxing evening, head to the wine room for some snacks and vino. However, if you’re feeling more adventurous, check out the tiramisu at the restaurant or grab cocktails with friends at the bar.

Key Differentiators:

• Burgers & steaks served in a buzzing pub
• Modern decor & an outdoor terrace
• Wine list features 100+ local and international rarities

Customer’s Review:

I had a wonderful dinner at the Dolphin last night with my family. All in there were 18 of us, and it was a very busy Saturday night – but still, everyone walked away very happy. The staff, service, and food were impeccable! The boys making pizza were so kind to my intrigued nieces and nephews (6/7-year-olds) who were keenly watching them make the pizza. Would definitely recommend dinner in the dining room.

Tamara

30) Pizza Madre

Key Service	Non-gluten & veggie options
Address	2/205 Victoria Rd, Marrickville NSW 2204, Australia
Website	https://www.pizzamadre.com.au/
Phone	0417849419
Email	info@pizzamadre.com.au
Operating Hours	Monday 5–9PM Tuesday 5–9PM Wednesday 5–9PM Thursday 5–9:30PM Friday 5–9:30PM Saturday 5–9:30PM Sunday 5–9PM

If you’re ever in Sydney and want the best Margherita pizza, be sure to go to Pizza Madre. This vegetarian (and sometimes vegan) restaurant is great for takeaway food, especially because every ingredient is homemade if possible). Don’t worry about not being able to find a good wine- they have some great options that are all vegan!

Key Differentiators:

• Easygoing nook focusing on sourdough stone-baked pizza
• Generous portions
• Monthly change of menu

Customer’s Review:

We know Pizza Madre gets super busy so we booked a table and arrived early. The pizzas here are absolutely amazing and probably one of the best pizzas we have ever had. The pizza base is delicious and the toppings are so tasty you forget it’s vegetarian! There’s a good selection of beer and wine also. The waitress we had was super friendly and helpful. We will definitely come back to try the other pizzas! Highly recommended.

Terence

31) Da Mario

Key Service	Wood-fired pizzas & classic Italian food
Address	Shop 1/36 Morley Ave, Rosebery NSW 2018, Australia
Website	https://damario.com.au/
Phone	+61 2 9669 2242
Operating Hours	Mon Closed Tues Closed Wed Closed Thursday 5–9:30PM Friday 5–9:30PM Saturday 5–9:30PM Sunday 12–3PM, 5–9:30PM

Da Mario is a great choice for anyone looking for classic pizza, pasta, wine and good times. The restaurant is in an expansive corner of the Cannery and it’s accessible, casual, warm and affordable. There’s the Margherita ‘extra’ (the extra is buffalo mozzarella), as well as their wonderfully simple patate (potato, rosemary, sea salt).

Key Differentiators:

• Great attentive table service
• Napoli-style pizza
• Friendly atmosphere

Customer’s Review:

Fantastic food – every dish was a winner! Get the crispy fried potato skins – delish! Service was welcoming, friendly and efficient. Had a great date night here – keen to go back again soon!

Hannah K

32) Bar Reggio

Key Service	Serving homestyle Italian dishes
Address	135 Crown Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Website	https://www.barreggio.com.au/
Phone	02 9332 1129
Operating Hours	Monday12:00 PM to LATE Tuesday12:00 PM to LATE Webnesday12:00 PM to LATE Thursday12:00 PM to LATE Friday12:00 PM to LATE Saturday12:00 PM to LATE SundayClosed

Bar Reggio is the spot for a simple, filling pizza that will satisfy your hunger. Bar Reggio is a well-known hangout for students before or after a night on the town. Whatever your flavor preference, Bar Reggio’s enormous variety of pizzas will meet you there.

Key Differentiators:

• Long-running restaurant with fresco-style paintings
• Bring your own (BYO) alcohol
• Serves very thin crust pizza

Customer’s Review:

Hard to get a booking at this place but food here is so authentic and so cosy. Pizza’s here are thin base, love it! Can’t go wrong with pasta and always love coming back here. Prices are also reasonable also.

Anna H

33) Restaurant Leo

Key Service	Contemporary Italian cuisine
Address	2 Angel Place, Sydney, NSW, Australia, New South Wales
Website	https://www.facebook.com/people/Restaurant-Leo/100063768686731/
Phone	+61 2 9235 3383
Operating Hours	Monday Closed Tuesday Closed Wednesday 5:30–9PM Thursday 12–3PM, 5:30–9PM Friday 12–3PM, 7:30–9PM Saturday 5:30–9:30PM Sunday Closed

If you’re looking for an amazing Italian meal in Sydney, head to Restaurant Leo. This hidden gem is located just off George Street in the CBD, and it’s full of delicious options. Don’t be afraid to try something new – the jet black, squid ink risotto is a must-try!

Key Differentiators:

• Huge portions
• Serves great cocktails
• Fashionable restaurant that has a terrace

Customer’s Review:

Absolutely amazing food, wine and services. Not one dish disappoints!!! The wine is also amazing. The staff is extremely friendly and lovely. The food is just impeccable. I would say one of the best restaurants in the CBD. Be crazy if anyone leaves bad comments for this GEM!

Winkie

34) Gowings

Key Service	European brasserie food and wine
Address	1/49 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Website	https://www.gowingsbarandgrill.com.au/
Phone	+61 (2) 8262 0064
Email	host_gowings@evt.com
Operating Hours	Wednesday – Friday: Lunch from 12pm Tuesday – Saturday: Dinner 6pm till late

The world-famous Sean Connolly has given the classic Gowings Bar & Grill in QT Sydney a makeover, retaining its trendy NYC atmosphere while highlighting Little Italy’s rich history. With an improved color scheme and added excitement, Sydney’s only authentic chef’s table is now live and better than ever. The table itself sticks into the kitchen so you can see all of the action up close.

Key Differentiators:

• Contemporary space with a wood-fired rotisserie and bar
• Good selection of spirits, wine and beer
• Obliging and courteous staff.

Customer’s Review:

My clients and I had the best lunch at the newly opened Gowings restaurant. Sean the Creative Director (Exec chef) greeted us and made us feel so welcome. The food and service were amazing (Crab pasta a real hit) and the drinks and deserts were excellent.

Carrie

35) Pilu at Freshwater

Key Service	Sardinian dishes with a modern twist
Address	Moore Rd, Freshwater NSW 2096, Australia
Website	https://pilu.com.au/
Phone	(02) 9938 3331
Email	dining@pilu.com.au
Operating Hours	Wed to Sun 12–3PM, 6–9PM

Another Northern Beaches legend. Pilu at Freshwater specializes in Sardinian cuisine and aims to modernize old ways while also using them to create endlessly rotating, produce-led dishes such as the popular dish chargrilled octopus with garlic and potato cream, as well as pastas like hand-rolled fregola with rock lobster, tomato, and salmon roe.

Key Differentiators:

• Has a beach kiosk serving panini
• Sourcing the best of local, seasonal ingredients
• Re-interpreted using modern techniques whilst remaining true to tradition

Customer’s Review:

You will not make a mistake coming here. The food is great, the service is good. The only problem may be in getting seats but you should probably make a reservation before coming. Cod is presented very well, along with their coffees and desserts. Highly recommend.

Natalie Tay

36) Parlour Cucina

Key Service	Bustling bar & cafe
Address	49 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Website	https://www.qthotels.com/sydney-cbd/eat-drink/parlour-cucina/
Phone	02 8262 0000
Operating Hours	Monday – Friday 6.30am until 10pm Saturday and Sunday 7am until 10pm

Previously Parlour Lane Roasters, this unpretentious café on the ground level of QT Sydney, is a sure bet for some of the best Italian in the city. It’s not just the tiramisu, which was created using a family recipe from former Executive Chef Nic Wood. The Parlour Cucina is a great place to go for an espresso or lunch. This cafe, which is now led by Executive Chef Sean Connolly, has several pasta dishes, antipasti like pickled octopus and ortiz anchovies with garlic butter on sourdough, and a fantastic wine selection.

Key Differentiators:

• With lavish, old-timey decor
• Very friendly staff
• Serves goof coffee

Customer’s Review:

Little gem of places located on the street level of QT Hotel and next to the State Theatre. Fantastic Art Deco atmosphere, really nicely fitted out and the bar is well stocked. The ‘ladies legs’ barstools are a hoot!

Nikki

37) Buffalo Dining Club

Key Service	Cool, vintage-style Italian restaurant
Address	116 Surrey St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia
Website	http://www.buffalodiningclub.com.au/
Phone	9332 4052
Operating Hours	Wed to Fri 6PM – til late Sat Lunch 1pm – 4:30pm Dinner 6pm – til late

A bright yellow stream of lava might be expected at Buffalo Dining Club, where an indulgent wheel of raclette cheese melting over some pasta is popular. While the pasta is delicious enough to eat without the aid of the kitchen’s Pecorino Romano cheese wheel, which comes from Sardinia, Italy once a month fresh, it may also stand alone due to the excellence of the food.

Key Differentiators:

• Serving pasta and mozzarella-focused dishes from a cheese wheel
• Cheese are from Sardinia, Ital
• Friendly staff

Customer’s Review:

Amazing food, the best entrees ever! Loved the atmosphere and staff.

Janaina Souza

38) Pendolino

Key Service	Handmade pasta
Address	Shop 100/412/414 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Website	https://www.pendolino.com.au/
Phone	(02) 9231 6117
Operating Hours	Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm-10pm Lunch: Wednesday to Friday,12pm-3pm

Pendolino is an excellent Italian restaurant hidden in the Strand Arcade, providing first-rate service and top-of-the-line traditional meals. Simplicity is required: perfectly al dente pasta and rich, distinctive sauces, all complemented by a conventional wine list, are worth exploring. The dark, moody trattoria atmosphere and excellent service add to the appeal, but the exceptional Italian cuisine is too good to dispute.

Key Differentiators:

• Refined Italian staples
• Features a dark, moody trattoria atmosphere
• Plush space with banquettes and exposed brick

Customer’s Review:

Delicious pastas and great professional but laid back service. On the exxy side and smallish portion size, but would gladly return.

Tracey Y

39) Bar Italia

Key Service	Serves tasty gelato
Address	171 Norton Street, Leichhardt New South Wales 2040, Australia
Website	https://www.baritalia.net.au/
Phone	(02) 9560 9981
Operating Hours	Monday 08:00 – 21:30 Tuesday 08:00 – 21:30 Wednesday 08:00 – 21:30 Thursday 08:00 – 21:30 Friday 08:00 – 22:00 Saturday 08:00 – 22:00 Sunday 08:00 – 21:30

If you’re ever in Sydney’s little Italy and are looking for an affordable red sauce joint, this is the place to go. The pasta dishes here are exquisite, and if you top it off with a coffee strong enough to stand a spoon in and some tiramisu gelato, you won’t be disappointed.

Key Differentiators:

• Great coffee
• Inexpensive red sauce joint
• Exquisite pasta dishes

Customer’s Review:

The ricotta cannoli is definitely a must-try! I tried the coffee gelato and I love it. The bar Italia spaghetti that I ordered was quite good but I wouldn’t say that it’s very delicious. However, I would love to try other pasta such as the carbonara.

Aileen Inez Widjaja

40) Sagra

Key Service	Warm, intimate, authentic Italian corner restaurant
Address	62 Stanley St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Website	https://www.sydneysagra.com.au/
Phone	02 9360 5964
Email	sagrasydney@gmail.com
Operating Hours	Dinner Tuesday to Saturday 6:00pm — closing Lunch Friday 12:00pm — 2:00pm

The kitchen skills of this modest restaurant in Darlinghurst are anything but modest. Sagra isn’t a showplace. It’s not about pride or prestige, any more than fussiness with garnishes or complicated plating. Taking someone there will impress them, though, because Sagra is one of Sydney’s most popular modern Italian restaurants. What’s good? The pasta is excellent; the seafood is fresh and simple to prepare; and the wines are low-key achievers. The menu is kept short and updated on a regular basis, but the format stays consistent.

Key Differentiators:

• Seasonal local Italian
• Curated wine list 
• Inviting, dimly lit setting

Customer’s Review:

Oh my gosh, their pasta melts in the mouth! Their in-house chilli oil is also super on point!!! We ordered all four pastas on the menu and as a meat lover, I actually got so impressed by the pumpkin tortellini (best in Sydney we’ve encountered so far) and smoked eggplant cannelloni and preferred them better than the other two. Proper service! Fei

Italian Restaurant Sydney

If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Italian dining experience, Sydney has no shortage of excellent restaurants to choose from. Our list of the 40 best Italian restaurants in Sydney will help you find the perfect spot for your next meal. Whether you’re in the mood for handmade pasta or fresh seafood, we have something for everyone on this list. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next date night at one of these amazing Italian restaurant Sydney!

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