IL PONTILE

Woolloomooloo's famous wharf has a new addition. Say ciao to IL PONTILE—a sleek Italian restaurant that feels very at home at this sparkly harbourside spot. 

From Audacia Enterprise in consultation with fourth-generation Italian restaurateur and chef, Naples-born Mario Percuoco, IL PONTILE is refined but relaxed, the sort of breezy waterfront fine dining that feels very Sydney. Unlike its neighbours on the Finger Wharf, IL PONTILE is dog-friendly, making it the perfect spot for a long lunch after a morning stroll around the harbour.

The menu draws on all regions of Italy, focussing on fresh seafood and top local produce. “We live in the most incredible country in the world with beautiful produce, seafood, and vegetables," Percuoco explains. "We are not reinventing the meal but we will do things in a different way."

Kick off with jumbo scampi or house-cured ocean trout, before moving onto some of Sydney's creamiest burrata served with battered zucchini flowers, or try a square of fresh watermelon coated in molasses and topped with goat’s cheese. 

Housemade pasta includes Percuoco's signature seafood linguine—a spaghetti-in-a-bag creation that is baked in paper and served wrapped and drenched in sauce—and a Neapolitan-style rigatoni topped with slow-cooked ragu. Elsewhere on the menu, you'll find pistachio-crusted tuna and chargrilled king prawns with gremolata and lemon dressing. 

To drink, go for the Sicilian Negroni—like the original but with the addition of fresh blood orange. There's also the "Very Sexy Martini", which is a concoction of Ketel One vodka, raspberry, mint, lime juice, sparkling rose, and the ultra-refreshing "Hugo", with Prosecco, Fiorente elderflower, soda, and mint. 

The extensive Italian-leaning wine list, dreamt up by head sommelier Carlo Russo, will take you from Puglia to Piedmont and Tuscany, with a few Australian and French inclusions in the mix for good measure. 

Bang Architects is responsible for the interior, which includes a stunning glass cellar in the middle of the restaurant, and a mezzanine complete with private dining room. 

Image credit: IL PONTILE