Lucio’s Italian Restaurant

The Verdict

Sydney’s dining scene is notoriously fickle. So for Lucio’s not just survive, but also thrive, in Sydney for a solid 35 years is a really, really big deal. 

Since opening in 1983, Lucio’s has won over diners, politicians and celebrities with its north-Italian cuisine, fresh pasta...and the famous salt-baked snapper, oh and that famous green tagliolini with crab and tomato sugo of theirs. The restaurant has welcomed every prime minister since Gough Whitlam through its doors, and features artwork by the who’s who of Australia’s artists including John Olsen, Frank Hodgkinson and Colin Lanceley. And more recently, Anna Heinrich had her freaking hen’s do here. 

To celebrate its 35th anniversary, Lucio’s is trotting out special menus for old fans and new diners alike. If you’re short on time, opt for the Il Bel Pranzetto, a “lovely little lunch” of an entree, main and glass of wine for just $59. It’s a baller lunch for skimpy wallets. 

Long-dinner-lovers can gather their friends for the Sharing Feast ($130 pp, min. 6 people, bookings essential). It’s an epic feast of a generous antipasto, two pastas, and your choice of the aforementioned salt-baked snapper, a 1kg dry-aged Angus rib eye or slow-roasted porchetta, plus two (count ‘em) desserts. It’s generous, epic and a fine example of Lucio’s quality and hospitality. 

In short, this place is an institution so you’ll obviously want to be there. 

Image credit: Kai Leishman