Fratelli Paradiso

Classic dishes reign at an ever-stylish jewel.

November 11, 2024

1 / 6Scampi spaghettini at Fratelli Paradiso.supplied

2 / 6The lamb at Fratelli Paradiso.Nick Moir

3 / 6The zucchini tagliolini from Fratelli Paradiso. Ediwna Pickles

4 / 6The scampi spaghettini at Fratelli Paradiso. Edwina Pickles

6 / 6Scampi, such as these grilled babies from Fratelli Paradiso, can make a pescatarian-friendly pasta. Supplied

14.5/20

Italian$$

It’s hard to overstate the impact this Potts Point hero had on Italian dining when it opened in 2001. Gone were red-check tablecloths, prop Chianti bottles and laminated menus: brothers Enrico and Giovanni Paradiso found that sweet spot where relaxed dining meets great cooking and have been happily parked there ever since.

The blackboard menu features specials and favourites. Lasagne al forno, with velvety pasta sheets, rich beef ragu, fragrant soffrito and creamy, cheesy besciamella is a flawlessly balanced exemplar of the classic. Beef carpaccio, tender on a layer of anchovy aioli with flakes of quality parmesan and peppery rocket, proves that when every element is exquisite, simple is best.

Cocktails are confidently executed, and knowledgeable staff will steer you towards your perfect Italian wine. Fratelli Paradiso may have spawned countless imitators, but the original still holds court. Long may it continue.