Wednesday, October 21 marks the official launch of Parramatta Square – the hotly anticipated multi-billion dollar public space and dining precinct that’s set to breathe new life into the west.

Fast (but fresh) food favourites FishBowl and Betty’s Burgers are sure to satisfy lunchtime crowds, but it’s the opening of two big guns that will put the new precinct on the map.

First, Bondi-born CicciaBella. With a menu designed by culinary director Nic Wong, the second iteration of Maurice Terzini’s Italian diner takes inspiration from the cucina classica (classic Italian food) found in the great trattorias of Italy. Featuring fresh pasta made daily in-house and wood-fired mains, the flexible menu delivers on both easy sharing options and individual plates. For those wanting to make a night of it, sommelier James Hird looks after the wine list, and Matt Whiley of Scout London rounds out the offering with a curated drinks program.

Alongside CicciaBella sits LilyMu, a new restaurant from the founders of Surry Hills and Newtown mainstays Nour, Henrietta and Cuckoo Callay. Following a different concept from the Middle Eastern approach of its sibling venues, LilyMu features a modern Asian,Thai and Vietnamese menu. Under the direction of Executive Chef Brandon Fong, a Shifu (Master) of the wok, dishes will be fresh, familiar, and peppered with flair.