The newly opened Attenzione Food and Wine in Redfern has brought a fresh twist to Sydney’s Italian cuisine scene, offering diners oversized pasta dishes and a vibrant European atmosphere.
The restaurant, which opened its doors on 1 August 2024, is located at 180 Redfern Street, in the former premises of The Sunshine Inn.
Behind the Scenes
Attenzione is the brainchild of four industry veterans who have joined forces to create this unique dining experience. Felix Colman, part-owner and operator of Ragazzi and Fabbrica, has teamed up with Toby Davis, former Yellow restaurant manager, Toby Stansfield, previously of Lola’s in Bondi, and Dexter Kim, an ex-Buffet Digital videographer. Their combined expertise and passion for European cuisine have shaped Attenzione’s distinctive character.
A Taste of Europe
The menu at Attenzione blends Italian classics with broader European influences, creating a culinary journey that spans the continent.
One of the standout dishes is the Pico XL, an oversized version of pico pasta that’s available with various sauces. Despite its polarising texture, this innovative pasta creation has quickly become the restaurant’s signature item. Priced at $30, the Pico XL currently features a green scallion crema and roasted soba cha, offering a unique taste experience that’s new to Sydney’s dining scene.
For those seeking heartier fare, Attenzione offers dry-aged dairy cow steaks sourced from Emilio’s Butcher in Rozelle, as well as a succulent charcoal-roasted free-range chicken served with chicory and horseradish.
The menu also includes a range of snacks and share plates that draw inspiration from various European cuisines, providing diners with a diverse array of flavours to explore.
Dessert lovers aren’t forgotten, with Attenzione offering playful sweet treats that cap off the meal perfectly. Options include an apple baked in pastry served with tonka custard, showcasing the kitchen’s creative approach to traditional European desserts.
Wine and Dine
Attenzione’s commitment to European dining extends to its impressive wine selection. The restaurant boasts a 150-bottle cellar that features both local Australian wines and Italian varietals. There’s a particular emphasis on Nebbiolo, with selections from renowned regions such as Barolo, Barbaresco, and Piemonte. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive by-the-glass options, allowing for exploration of different styles and regions.
The drink menu continues beyond wine, however. Attenzione also offers a range of digestifs including grappas, armagnacs, and amaros, perfect for rounding off a meal. Classic cocktails are available for those who prefer mixed drinks, and there’s even a selection of natural wines for patrons interested in low-intervention bottles.
Ambiance and Design
The restaurant’s interior, designed by Sydney-based studio Coffeyhallet, perfectly complements the European-inspired menu. The space features a vibrant mustard and aniseed colour palette that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Comfortable leather banquettes and dark-stained Bentwood chairs provide seating options, while large mirrors have been strategically placed to enhance the sense of space.
The owners of Attenzione have aimed to create a lively, relaxed, and welcoming environment that captures the essence of their favourite European dining experiences. From the moment diners step through the door, they’re transported to a space that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
A New Chapter in Sydney Dining
With its blend of oversized pasta, European-inspired dishes, extensive wine list, and inviting atmosphere, Attenzione Food and Wine is poised to become a standout in Sydney’s competitive dining scene. It offers a unique experience that combines the best of Italian cuisine with broader European influences, all served up in a setting that encourages lingering over good food and wine.
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Published 7-Aug-2024
