Italian with an Aussie twist? Yes, please! 

North Sydney’s dining scene is undergoing a quiet renaissance, and the newest addition to the mix is Bar Lettera. Nestled within the recently opened Citadines Walker North Sydney hotel, this restaurant and wine bar is shaking things up with a fusion of modern Australian and Italian flavours.

At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Ryan Perry, whose resume boasts stints at esteemed Sydney establishments like The Bridge Room and Momofuku Seiobo. Here, Perry ditches the well-worn path of traditional Italian fare and instead takes diners on a culinary journey that bridges the gap between Italian classics and modern Australian sensibilities. Think heirloom salad with a touch of kombu oil and Geraldton wax, a far cry from your standard caprese.

“There’s a real energy here,” says Perry. “Bar Lettera is upscale without being pretentious. We’re taking Italian classics and weaving in a modern Australian twist, using seasonal produce that bursts with flavour.”

But fear not, traditionalists. The essence of Italian cuisine – fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold, yet balanced flavours – remains firmly at the heart of Bar Lettera’s menu. Plates offer something for everyone, from tempting share plates like burrata with witlof, bottarga, and pine nuts to heartier options like the pork cotoletta alla milanese. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert – the Milo tiramisu with Mr. Black Coffee liqueur gelato is a must-try.

But Perry emphasises that Bar Lettera isn’t just about playful reinventions, quality and seasonal ingredients are the bedrock of the menu. Picture a perfectly seared grass-fed rib eye from CopperTree Farms, served alongside blistered tomatoes and a unique pale ale jus. Or Perry’s personal favourite, the Wollemi duck ragu rigatoni bathed in a Davidson plum gin sauce – a dish that promises to be both comforting and exciting.

Stepping into Bar Lettera is like stepping into a modern artist’s haven. The design, by Jordan Design Studio, is a subtle homage to North Sydney’s own Theodora Cowan, Australia’s first female sculptor. Think warm lighting, pops of colour reminiscent of a Negroni cocktail, and thoughtful curation of ceramic sculptures. The space is both stylish and inviting, a perfect backdrop for conversation and lingering over a glass of wine.

Speaking of wine, the list at Bar Lettera is a thoughtful blend of European tradition and exciting Australian offerings. Here, you’ll find established European labels like a Granjoux Chardonnay from Beechworth nestled comfortably alongside a Joshua Cooper Cabernet Sauvignon. But Bar Lettera isn’t just about the grape. The cocktail menu pays tribute to iconic Australian female artists, each creation boasting a unique flavour profile and a story to tell.

The bar’s interior transports patrons to a modern-day artist’s haven. Designed by Sophie Jordan of Jordan Design Studio, the space draws inspiration from Theodora Cowan, the first female Australian sculptor and a North Sydney resident. Think ceramic sculptures juxtaposed with marble accents, all warmed by Australian hardwood floors.

Bar Lettera is a celebration of flavour and a love letter to North Sydney. Chef Perry’s culinary artistry meets Sophie Jordan’s design vision, creating a space that’s both sophisticated and inviting. Mark your calendars as it’s about to become your new favourite North Sydney haunt!