Your next obsession? It’s not a Netflix show, it’s Attenzione! Food & Wine, the buzzy Euro diner that’s landed in Redfern.
Redfern’s got a hot new Italian spot, and its name demands attention: Attenzione! Food & Wine. This exciting venture isn’t your typical Italian offering. Attenzione! takes a more whimsical approach, drawing inspiration from the diverse foodie corners of Europe – with a few unexpected twists thrown in for good measure.
Behind the concept are four seasoned hospitality veterans: Felix Colman (Ragazzi, Fabbrica), Toby Davis (ex-Yellow manager), Toby Stansfield (ex-Lola’s Bondi chef), and Dexter Kim (ex-Buffet Digital videographer). Their vision? To capture the energy and vibrancy of their European dining experiences, from bustling Parisian bistros to sun-drenched aperitivos along the Mediterranean.
The mustard and aniseed colour scheme creates a lively backdrop, complemented by plush leather banquettes and classic Bentwood chairs. The space exudes a sense of relaxed sophistication, perfect for a casual evening with friends or a special occasion.
The menu is a delightful exploration of European flavours. You’re treated to Italian pastas alongside French brasserie staples and dishes that nod towards Central Europe. A standout is the “pico XL,” an oversized portion of fat, juicy pasta perfect for sharing and adorned with various sauces, from the classic cacio e pepe to a more adventurous nduja crema with mussels.
Save room in your appetite for mains as the dry-aged dairy cow steaks, sourced locally from Emilio’s Butcher, served with a house-made chopped green onion condiment melt straight in your mouth. For those seeking lighter fare, the charcoal-roasted free-range chicken with chicory and horseradish adds a touch of Teutonic flair.
Desserts are playful and unpretentious, offering a sweet conclusion to your meal. Dig into an apple baked in pastry, served with a rich tonka bean custard, or a sundae featuring pineapple, espresso cookie, and whipped ganache. Attenzione! takes dessert seriously enough to deliver joy, but not so seriously that you can’t indulge without a side of lightheartedness.
Snacking however is what holds our attention, with a selection that reflects the restaurant’s pan-European outlook. Locally smoked trout pate served with a chicken-skin crisp and a hunk of fougasse flatbread spread with wildflower butter is just one tempting example.
The wine list is just as captivating as the food. Compiled by Colman and Davis, it boasts over 150 bottles with a strong focus on Australian wines alongside their beloved Italian favourites, particularly Nebbiolo from Barolo, Barbaresco, and Piemonte. Expect a generous selection by the glass, along with digestifs, classic cocktails, and even some natural options for those who appreciate a less-interventionist approach.
The team behind Attenzione! has poured their experience and passion into creating a unique and vibrant dining experience. From the playful name to the diverse menu and thoughtfully curated wine list, Attenzione! truly is a restaurant that offers a taste of Europe with a touch of whimsy.
