Tales of Sicily are shared amongst the group as the sun sets across Criniti’s flagship restaurant in Woolloomooloo. Behind the crescent shaped bar, the aroma of a 3-metre long wood fired pizza fills the air. Newly appointed Head Chef John Lanzafame has created a menu for the group that pays homage to his Sicilian heritage and we’re here to sample his creations.
Traditional Pizzas between 1-3 meters long, (yes, dreams do come true) cooked in an oak lined rotating oven are one of the main attractions at Criniti’s. Namely the Zappatore, a pork-sausage pizza with thinly sliced potatoes, rosemary, chilli and mozzarella (one of the chef’s favourite and most famed combinations).
If you’re after something a little more Mediterranean try the Azzurri pizze, generously covered with san Daniele prosciutto, buffalo mozzarella, mushrooms, artichokes, semi-dried tomatoes, basil and ricotta. Add a glass (or bottle) of the Cerro Del Masso Chianti directly shipped from Italy, close your eyes and you could easily imagine you’re on the coast of Italy.
The Carne selection sings to all those meat-lovers amongst the group. The ‘Hunting with Cosimo’ is a must try; mouth-watering pork ribs sautéed in “papa’s famous” vine ripened tomato sugo with homemade salame, Italian sausages, pork belly and chilli. This comes highly recommended by the Italian waitstaff.
Vegetarians are not only catered for they’re spoilt for choice too. The richness of the Eggplant Fritters (Frittelle Di Melanzane) to the simplicity of the Fig Salad (Fichi) emphasises Lanzafame’s abundant approach to dining. Above all stands the Gnochhi Gorgonzola, an absolute must whether you are a pasta-potato lover or not. A luscious blend of Scamorza, Parmigiano, Mozzarella and rich Gorgonzola coat the hand crafted cloud-like Gnocchi to create one the most outstanding Italian dishes on the menu.
Without surprise the Wine, Beer and Cocktail lists are lengthy and pertinent to the Italian premise. If you aren’t yet sold on the authenticity of Criniti’s heritage just look up. Two Red Ducati super-bikes hang from the roof, adjacent to the custom-made Ferrari Engine light fitting! Mamamia!
Criniti’s, Woololoomooloo
Starters; $14-20
Mains; $24-$49 (share plates)
Pizzas; Large $24-30 ,1m $75-84, 3m $216-270
Shop 2, 6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011