Matteo Downtown offers a taste of authentic Italian charm in the heart of Sydney CBD.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of the CBD, Matteo Downtown continues to capture the hearts of Sydney diners since its debut in 2020. Transitioning from the beloved Double Bay locale, Matteo’s expansion has been met with widespread acclaim, attracting those knocking off work or visitors to the city with an exceptional Italian dining experience.
Step inside Matteo Downtown, and you’re immediately transported to the lively ambience reminiscent of a bustling Italian piazza. The atmosphere exudes the spirit of Milan or Venice, with a charming blend of vintage aperitivo posters and alfresco seating options.
At the heart of Matteo Downtown’s strong culinary game is Head Chef Manuel Romanelli. With a menu curated to reflect the flavours of Northern Italy, indulge in a delightful array of well-executed bar-style snacks, handmade pasta, and traditional wood-fired pizzas. Each dish is crafted with precision and passion, showcasing the finest ingredients and traditional culinary techniques.
It would be rude not to begin with the Chef’s daily homemade focaccia, elevated with decadent truffle butter. The focaccia might just be our favourite in Sydney, topped with Mediterranean veggies and herbs. Expect it to be super soft upon squeezing with ample air pockets and oily to the touch. The Crudo Di Tonno is also a highlight, featuring Yellowfin tuna, chilli, pickled red onion, and avocado mayonnaise. Fresh Yellowfin tuna is laid out on a plate in thin slices like carpaccio, giving a beautiful mouthfeel and an exciting way to experience a tuna dish.
For those seeking a taste of Sardinia, the Culurgiones are delicious and make us feel like we’re eating the Italian version of dumplings. Hand-shaped pasta is filled with potatoes, pecorino cheese, and mint, and is served with burnt tomato sauce and stracciatella.
Of course, no visit to Matteo Downtown is complete without sampling their renowned pizzas, all created in true Naples style. From the classic Downtown pizza, featuring parma prosciutto, truffle stracciatella, and rocket, to the Vegetariana with Fior di latte, eggplant, zucchini, roasted red capsicum, pecorino toscano, and basil, each slice promises a symphony of decadent flavours and fresh ingredients, where you’ll leave no slice behind.
To complement the exquisite fare, Matteo Downtown offers a beverage menu steeped in Italian tradition, boasting an impressive selection of authentic wines, cocktails, and beers with a Downtown twist. Whether you opt for a Sorbellini, a modern take on the Aperol Spritz, or explore their Negroni menu, there’s a libation to suit every palate.
Matteo Downtown is a testament to the timeless charm of Italian cuisine. Nestled amidst the vibrant energy of Sydney’s CBD, this restaurant and bar effortlessly entices diners with its fusion of genuine Italian flavours and contemporary elegance.
Matteo Downtown is located at 20 Bond Street and is open Monday to Saturday. Find out more here.