Avia

Avia is a Darlinghurst restaurant that pays homage to chef-owner Stefano Marano’s time in his nonna’s kitchen in Italy. Collaborating with his mate Jack Reid, the two The Apollo alums have collated their extensive experience in hospitality (including at Melbourne's Supernormal, Copenhagen's Hart bakery and Sydney's Le Foote) to bring us the intimate 60-seat venue just off Taylor Square.

Crafted from sustainably sourced local produce utilised creatively, Avia’s menu puts a spin on Italian food, with a sway towards seafood. Follow fluffy focaccia served with sugo with dishes like house-made curd served with coffee-baked pumpkin and malt, or a daily crudo with melon, celery and pepita oil.

Larger menu items include little-seen pasta shapes like strascinati and sedanini; snapper tail (air-dried for two days for crisp skin) with roasted tomato piccante and grapefruit; and house-made sausage with cavolo nero pesto, and a pick from the balanced dessert offering. A chefs menu is available for $75pp, offering a daily selection of favourite plates.

The restaurant—with indoor and outdoor seating—brings the warmth of a trattoria to Sydney, with its earthy-toned palette and atmosphere making it feel like someone’s home. Aim to be seated near the large windows, offering you the perfect opportunity to watch passers-by as you sip on your martini.

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Image credit: Avia | Supplied