After months of anticipation for Paddington locals, Civico 47 has officially opened boasting a modern European refurbishment and menu led by a celebrated Italian chef.

A lot of pressure comes with introducing Sydney to a new restaurant, especially when it’s located within the original site of Sydney’s oldest and most adored Italian restaurant. For 40 years, Lucio’s paved the way for Italian dining in the heart of Paddington. You may remember the quaint terrace on Windsor Street with baby yellow walls, abstract artworks and traditional white table cloths. Although Lucio’s will always hold a special place in our hearts and stomachs, we must trust the process of evolution.

The dining room and bar area have had an extensive refurbishment with the restaurant now operating under the name Civico 47 (pronounced Chi-vico). Boasting chalky white walls, terrazzo tiles, tan leather seating, vintage Italian prints imported from overseas and exposed natural light, building 47 has transformed into a modern European oasis. The new space is suited to long lunches, date nights spent exploring the aperitivi list at the bar and dining slow in good company, as the Italians do.

At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Matteo Zamboni who you might be familiar with from the two-hatted restaurant Ormeggio, Pilu at Freshwater and Jonah’s. Born in Serle, a small town in northern Italy, Zamboni’s Italian heritage shines through each dish. He balances authentic flavour combinations with the best seasonal produce sourced from within Australia. While the dishes showcase refined culinary techniques, it’s served in generous portions to be shared from the middle of the table.
Start your meal by dipping fluffy housemade foccaccina into the rich and creamy burratina. Zamboni has brought something new to this modern menu staple by adding salsa al Basilico and confit tomatoes. Move onto light and refreshing Kingfish Crudo, Baby Octopus with pickled onion, sultana and Taggiasche olives where Zamboni perfectly balances more Southern Italian flavours and Beef Carpaccio with rocket, macadamia, vincotto and brussel sprouts.

The pasta dishes show a great deal of culinary technique with highlights including Ravioli with ricotta, burnt leek, capsicum and black garlic, and Corzetti with broccoli, fresh pear and walnut. The Market Fish changes each week based on availability, paired with an orange and saffron emulsion that you’ll want a spoon for. The Lamb Rump was cooked perfectly with leek, linseed and desert limes. If you like to pair your mains with carbs, you can’t go past the potatoes, perfectly golden with a kick of paprika and garlic.
The desserts follow the Italian theme and are just as impressive as the mains. The Burnt Butter & Sage Gelato with Davidson plum and rhubarb acts as a palate cleanser while the Chocolate & Coffee Budino with orange caramel will satisfy the sweet tooths. Pair this with something from the dedicated digestivi menu and you have a well-rounded meal.

Civico 47 pays homage to the original Lucio’s restaurant while bringing something new to Paddington. Locals, we’ve found your second home on 47 Windsor Street…

Civico is open Wednesday & Thursday from 6pm and Friday & Saturday from 12pm. Book your table here.

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