From spaghetti and spritz to pizza and pinot noir, discover the best Italian restaurants in Sydney.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a romantic date night spot or a crowd-pleasing local favourite, you’ve come to the right place. When pasta, pizza and perfectly-crafted cocktails are calling your name, head to the best Italian restaurants in Sydney.
Zafferano Trattoria Mediterranea, Paddington
For those hanging to get to Sicily, know you can get your fix without the need for a boarding pass if you head to Zafferano Trattoria Mediterranea. Tucked on the South Dowling corner in Paddington, you’ll find husband and wife duo Simone Crivello and Isobel Galloway Zafferno serving up authentic, hearty Sicilian cuisine with a side of friendly Italian hospitality.
Lap up the European-style fit-out featuring alfresco tables and umbrellas, wooden window frames and tables, a brown paper specials board and Italian ceramics. The restaurant is only small giving you that true, bustling trattoria vibe.
Don’t expect dishes to be plated in a fancy way. Expect them to be served as you would see in Sicily, made with love and the best seasonal produce. Dish highlights include the Panelle which is the Sicilian version of chips, and the Parmigiana di Melanzane which is fried eggplant with Napoli sauce, cheese and basil served with a side of fresh sourdough bread for dipping. We moved on to the special of Bucatini Pasta with Italian sausage, zucchini and truffle oil, but we hear the Risotto Marinara with muscles, clams, cuttlefish, prawns and crab in a light tomato sauce is the local favourite. For dessert, it’s hard to go without a Canolli, the Italian pastry that is filled with fresh ricotta cream in front of your eyes.
Civico 47, Paddington
This restaurant has been introduced to Sydney within the original site of the former Italian institution, Lucio’s. The space has transformed into a modern European Oasis, perfect for long lunches, date nights and dining slow in good company. At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Matteo Zamboni (Ormeggio, Pilu at Freshwater and Jonah’s). Born in a small town in northern Italy, Zamboni’s Italian heritage shines through each dish. Find out more here.
Corso Brio, Barangaroo
If you’re looking to impress, head to Corso Brio for a dose of European grandeur. The new 120-seater venue boasts boujee interiors, a modern Italian menu and an impressive wine list to match. Led by a strong hospitality team including Italian-born executive chef Massimo De Michele, you’ll taste dishes including Beef Carpaccio, Wild-Caught New Zealand Scampi and Slow-Cooked Margra Lamb Shoulder. Find out more here
Grana, CBD
In the heart of Sydney, the 1860s wool store has been restored into a beautiful multi-level dining space called Hinchcliff House. On the ground floor is Grana, both a bakery and an all-day eatery serving up pastries by day and an Australian interpretation of Italian cuisine by night. The menu features it all from burrata to pasta, fresh seafood and meat. Find out more here.
10 William Street, Paddington
For a fun, flavourful wine bar experience you can’t go past the iconic Italian restaurant, 10 William Street. Set in the heart of Paddington, this cosy bustling spot is perfect for ordering a delicious bottle of wine and endless plates of snacks (and a bowl of pasta, of course). Find out more here.
Alberto’s Lounge, CBD
While we usually reserve the term ‘neighbourhood’ for the suburbs, this CBD Italian restaurant brings this welcoming vibe to the heart of the city. Alberto’s Lounge is a wine bar meets restaurant is a must-see with a classic Italian menu spanning smaller share plates of prosciutto and burrata, spice pork sausage and cauliflower with green olives to larger mains. Leave room for the spaghetti with king prawns and pistachio and a negroni too. Find out more here.
A Tavola, Darlinghurst & Bondi
Since 2007, A Tavola has been a Darlinghurst stalwart, serving up some of Sydney’s best Italian eats. Renowned for its authentic Italian pasta, this local favourite is the perfect spot to experience the best of Italy without leaving Sydney. Find out more here.
Bella Brutta, Newtown
For intimate date nights or group gathers, Bella Brutta is one of the best spots to celebrate. This Italian restaurant is one of Sydney’s best, with a curated menu of top-notch pizzas, snacks and sides. Make sure to try the anchovies, grab a glass of natural vino and a slice of their potato or clam pizza for a delicious night out. Find out more here.
Bei Amici, Darling Point
For authentic Italian eats at their best, you can’t go past Bei Amici. This welcoming Italian restaurant is perfect for a relaxed meal with friends, with gluten-free and vegan options on this seasonally-driven menu. Oh, did we mention dogs are always welcome to dine alfresco too? Find out more here.
Buon Ricordo, Paddington
Since 1987, Paddington’s Buon Ricordo has been serving authentic Italian flavours to Sydney foodies. This produce-driven menu champions classic Italian dishes with a stellar wine list of over 600 bottles to choose from. From burrata and buffalo mozzarella to classic pasta dishes, expect warming, generous hospitality at Buon Ricordo. Find out more here.
Fratelli Paradiso, Potts Point
Fratelli Paradiso is one of Sydney’s favourite Italian restaurants. If you’re in the mood for a bowl of pasta and boozy tiramisu, you’ll find it all at Fratelli Paradiso (along with an exceptional service). Find out more here.
Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, Bondi
Boasting one of the best views in Sydney, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar is a waterfront Italian restaurant celebrating Australia’s best local produce. With a focus on modern Italian eats and seasonal favours, soak in sweeping views of Bondi Beach from this iconic dining room, delivering sustainable seafood, artisanal produce and delicious drinks. Find out more here.
LuMi Dining, Pyrmont
Head to LuMi for a casual, fine dining Italian culinary experience. This award-winning spot is set right on the water, making it the perfect spot for a celebration. As for the menu, enjoy modern Italian dishes with a Japanese twist. Find out more here.
Matteo, CBD & Double Bay
Matteo is an Eastern Suburbs institution and their newer CBD outpost is serving up the same all-day Italian eats. Offering lunch, aperitivo, dinner and even late-night drinks to get a taste of the buzzing Italian way of life. Find out more here.
Osteria Coogee
Head to the water and you’ll find Osteria Coogee, a casual coastal kitchen serving revived Italian classics. Designed for dining experiences that unite good friends around incredible food, expect a menu that celebrates Italian cuisine using the freshest Australian produce. Find out more here.
Pilu, Freshwater
If you’re looking for authentic Sardinian eats at their best, you can’t go past Pilu. Using reimagined culinary techniques that remain true to tradition and regionality, expect a superb Italian experience (whether you choose the 7-course tasting menu or a la carte option). Find out more here.
Totti’s, Bondi
Make sure you come hungry to Totti’s, the popular Bondi eatery serving up delicious, simple Italian eats. From small shared plates and antipasto to pasta, mains and dessert, there’s plenty to enjoy at this bustling dining room. Find out more here.
