It’s an experience that many Sydneysiders will be familiar with, that is, trying to score a table at Totti’s. Thankfully, Sydneysiders now have twice the luck, with a second outpost now open in the city. While the vibe might be a little different – think inner-city cool rather than carefree coastal – you’ll still be able to get your hands on many of the celebrated snacks that made the Italian diner so popular.

Mike Eggert returns to the kitchen alongside Jake Ahrens from Merivale’s Ash St. Cellar and Uccello. Like Bondi, the menu is built around the famed wood-fired bread which is served alongside an extended selection of antipasti and snacks. The drinks list is made up of retro Italian classics, with a greater focus on spritzes. Wines revolve around Italian varietals, with an emphasis on easy-drinking drops.

The new checkbox menu includes over 20 antipasti dishes. Start your ticking spree with the scallop crudo, pickled octopus and goey baked tomino cheese. There’s also grilled snacks like scampi in seaweed butter, haloumi with nectarines, and smoked pork jowl with chilli. Totti’s beloved Neopolitan ice cream sandwich also make an appearance alongside tiramisu and a blood orange sorbet sandwich.

Inspired by its CBD location, Bar Totti’s looks and feels more bohemian than its beachside counterpart. The rustic white-washed walls and natural timbers remain, only this time they’ve been elevated with art, from paintings and sketches to pottery, books, and records. The venue is split into two spaces, a horseshoe bar with DJ and a light-filled dining room that opens up onto the street.

Bar Totti’s is located at ivy, shop 4/330 George Street, Sydney. It open Mon-Sun 12pm – late. For more details, head to merivale.com/venues/bar-tottis.

First look: Matt Wilkinson’s proper British diner has opened in Brunswick East.