After 21 years, De Vine Food & Wine is clinking glasses to a new era with a stylish million-dollar renovation.
A Sydney institution is raising a glass to two decades of success. De Vine Food & Wine, a beloved CBD wine bar and restaurant, is celebrating its 21st birthday with a stylish million-dollar renovation, ensuring it remains a premier destination for years to come.
Since opening its doors in 2003, De Vine has established a loyal following with its warm ambience, authentic Italian cuisine, and impressive wine selection. Now, under the guidance of new restaurateur brothers Anthony and Julian Izzillo (formerly of Wildfire), the venue is embarking on a new chapter, preserving its cherished character while adding a touch of modern sophistication.
“We wanted to stay true to the essence of De Vine,” explains Anthony Izzillo. “Our loyal customers know and love the moody lighting, exposed brick walls, and polished floors, and these features remain untouched.”
The changes lie in the details. The layout has been opened up to create a more spacious feel, while still maintaining a distinct separation between the wine bar and dining room. Dedicated bar seating and elegant granite countertops with gleaming brass fixtures, add a touch of luxury, while bespoke Italian dining chairs and five new green velvet banquettes create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
One particularly striking addition is the new 250-bottle brass Amaro display, highlighting the venue’s unique collection – one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Vintage Amaro posters, meticulously restored and framed, adorn the walls, adding a touch of history and character.
Despite the update, the heart of De Vine remains unchanged. The ethos of “old school hospitality” continues to reign supreme, with friendly staff who know their regulars by name and favourite dishes. The kitchen, true to its European roots, never closes, welcoming diners throughout the evening.
The wine list, meticulously curated by Julian Izzillo, continues to be a drawcard, featuring over 500 bottles of artisan wines, primarily from Italy, with a focus on natural and biodynamic producers. Complementing the extensive wine selection is the aforementioned Amaro collection, offering both familiar favourites and rare finds, perfect for adventurous palates.
And no Italian experience is complete without delicious food. Headed by Chef Timothy Fisher, previously of the Michelin-starred Osteria Lucio, the menu showcases rustic Italian fare with a modern twist. Using fresh, local ingredients and minimizing waste, the menu features signature dishes like the house-made pappardelle with Wagyu beef ragu and smoked pancetta, king prawn and Balmain bug risotto, and of course, the classic Tiramisù that would make any Nonna proud.
As De Vine embarks on its next chapter, one thing remains clear: it continues to offer a warm and welcoming haven for Sydney diners seeking a taste of Italy, a carefully selected glass of wine, and an evening filled with genuine hospitality. So, whether you’re a longtime patron or a curious newcomer, raise a glass to 21 years of De Vine, and many more to come.