Bar Machiavelli
When you think about some of the best Italian restaurants in Sydney, Machiavelli in Sydney’s CBD would be one of the first names that come to mind.
Enter Bar Machiavelli, the Rushcutters Bay offshoot that is determined to redefine Sydney’s destination dining. This once tyre factory has been transformed into an elegant space enhanced by its striking industrial features.
We recently ventured out to this latest eastern suburbs hot spot for a high-class, fine-dining experience. Upon entering the venue, we were immediately intrigued by the projections of influential personas such as Audrey Hepburn, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sophia Loren, and Amy Winehouse splashed against the exposed brick walls to enrich the endlessly high ceilings. With subtle lighting and modern rustic interiors, we were set for the ultimate restaurant affair.
The food menu is very simply broken up into four categories: Antipasto, Pasta, Secondi, and Sides. The Antipasto section features updated Italian classics with a cheeky Machiavelli twist, showcasing the likes of Baked figs with prosciutto and a Roquefort cheese sauce, Affettati Misti, Duck Liver Pâté, Beetroot Carpaccio, and Caprese Salad; a traditional salad that combines the colours of the Italian flag – green (basil), white (cheese) and red (tomato). We kicked the meal off with this beautifully presented palate-pleasing gem. A very simple dish but highly effective.
If you find yourself visiting Bar Machiavelli, you will more than likely be there for the amazing pasta. There’s quite a selection to choose from and all pastas are made fresh in-house. We sampled the signature Spaghetti Machiavelli with prawns, mushrooms, and a spicy basil butter sauce. It was fresh, flavoursome, and melted on our tongues. We couldn’t escape without also trying the Tagliatelle Sciué Sciué with prawns, cherry tomatoes, chili, and basil. It was just an explosion of flavours in our mouths. An absolute must-try!
Apparently the menu was originally focused on pasta dishes only but the Secondi section now also features a range of lamb, chicken, veal and fish options, changing daily to ensure the venue is regularly offering new and fresh dishes for their diners. If you still have room left in the belly after all that, the dessert menu features a combination of indulgent Italian classics – Profiterole with ice cream and chocolate sauce and Baked mascarpone cheesecake with fresh strawberries. A must-try is the delightful dessert cocktail the Tiramisu Martini, a house favourite which is a tasty liquid version of the traditional Italian dessert.
Bar Machiavelli offers impeccable service, a lively atmosphere, and delicious rustic Italian cooking. If you have the funds, we highly recommend it for a quality fine-dining experience. Bar Machiavelli is open Monday to Friday (6-11pm) and Saturdays (5-11pm), with the Bar open until 12pm Monday to Saturday.
Bar Machiavelli
10 Neild Ave, Rushcutters Bay
Reservations: www.barmachiavelli.com
