Lucio Pizzeria, Darlinghurst
Lucio Pizzeria in Darlinghurst has been a firm favourite amongst the Italian community – as well as lovers of good Italian food – for many years. Having won a host of awards since opening (including Best Pizza in Australia), the venue is celebrating becoming a teenager.
After 13 years of focusing on pizza, the much-loved menu has been expanded to showcase the pastas that owner Lucio cooks for himself when he wants a taste of Italy. With none of us able to travel overseas due to the pandemic, Lucio is bringing Italy to us with the addition of his truly authentic pastas that are much-loved staples of his homeland.
Perfectly timed as the autumn weather begins to take hold of the city, some of the new warming pastas include lamb shoulder ragu, orecchiette with pesto Genovese, and gnocchi with buffalo mozzarella, tomato and basil. We sampled the latter on our recent visit and simply couldn’t get enough – the bursting tomatoes lusciously coat the potato pillows of gnocchi to create a truly delightful and flavourful mix. The pastas are even handmade on site each day – not something you will see at many other venues.
Lucio Pizzeria is well known for its true Neapolitan pizza and you will no doubt want to have a taste of one of these fine creations while you’re here. On the pizze bianche side of the menu (tomato-free pizzas), you have a variety of options including 4 Formaggi, Speck, Rustica, Verdurine, Tartufata, Contadina and Campagnola.
While on the pizze rosse side (tomato-based pizzas), there’s quite an impressive list to try including Margherita, Bufalina, Marinara, Capricciosa, Diavola, Siciliana, Tonno, Salumi and more. We opted for the delicious Napoletana on our visit – a traditional pizza with tomato, mozzarella, olives, capers, anchovies and oregano. The beauty of this pizza lies in its simplicity – it doesn’t overdo it on the toppings. With its thin base and light airy crust, you’ll have no problems devouring it and you’ll instantly be transported to Italy while doing so.
For a salad option, you cannot go past the Radicchio con Gorgonzola e noci, Rucola, Parmagiono e pera, Insalata mista, Panzanella Salad or our top pick – Caprese Salad – which combines the fresh flavours of cherry truss tomatoes, basil and buffalo mozzarella. Simple yet bursting with flavour – it just goes to show that it’s the simple things in life that are often the best. If you want Italy on a plate, this is it.
And don’t think about leaving before you try some dessert. The traditional Italian Tiramisu is a stand-out while there is also Affogato, Nutella Pizza and a beautiful Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta served with strawberry couli – absolutely delectable and our suggested pick to ensure you end your night on a high.
Fans of authentic Italian fare will feel right at home at Lucio Pizzeria. With its delicious food, friendly staff and impeccable service, we recommend that you do yourself a favour and head there promptly.
Lucio Pizzeria, Darlinghurst
Republic 2 Court Yard
Shop 1/248 Palmer St, Darlinghurst
