Chasing a slice of la dolce vita? While Adelaide may come up short on Mediterranean coastline and ancient ruins, it certainly delivers on Italian flavours. Words by Kirsty Fanton.
It’s hard to say which is more impressive here: the sleek designer interior, complete with salumi room centrepiece and mezzanine-level kitchen, or the fresh take on Italian food, with offerings like squid ink gnochetti and tiramisu affogato. Either way, a meal here is a thoroughly memorable experience. 76 Pirie St, Adelaide, osteriaoggi.com.au
The pillowy handmade gnocchi and expertly crafted zeppole (little Italian doughnuts) should be mandatory for all diners, unless you’re popping in for a quick lunch; in which case, try the ragu panini. 94 Frome St, Adelaide andrescucina.com.au
Tradition reigns supreme at Chianti – one of Adelaide’s oldest Italian restaurants. You’ll find all your favourites here, from fresh and simple insalata caprese to wonderfully cheesy gnudi and perfectly set panna cotta. 160 Hutt St, Adelaide chianti.net.au
Unpretentious and generous is the best way to sum up this long-standing Port local serving southern Italian fare. Pop in for a pizza or linger over a four-course feast, waving hello to owners Carmine and Melina, and Nonna Vicky whenever she pops her head out of the kitchen. 49 Commercial Rd, Port Adelaide carmineandco.com.au
A great cocktail list and ever-changing menu, including the likes of ricotta gnudi, set the scene for good times with a touch of the unexpected. It’s the kind of place that encourages large groups, so mark it in your calendar as a great option for your next birthday. 142 Tynte St, North Adelaide rubyredflamingo.com
Featuring al fresco seating that would look right at home in an Italian piazza, it’s no surprise the focus here is on authentic dishes, like the hearty seafood linguine and rich chocolate torta. 21 O’Connell St, North Adelaide cucinanorthadelaide.com.au
A stalwart on the city’s culinary scene, Parlamento is loved for its exceptional food and old-school service. You’ll need a booking to get in, but once seated, you’re at leisure to linger, a fact that becomes all the more pleasing the moment you see the wine list. 140 North Tce, Adelaide parlamento.com.au
Specialising in woodfired pizza and craft beer, EST offers something a little different to your standard Italian experience. It also offers one of the best-value banquets in town: a $28 per head feast of pizza, polenta and gnocchi. 30 East Tce, Adelaide estpizzeria.com.au
Expect modern plates with traditional hospitality at inner-city diner Insieme. The serves are generous, the pasta house made, and the modern twists are just right. Case in point: the sweet potato gnocchi, which comes with sage pesto and fresh ricotta. 63 Flinders St, Adelaide insieme.net.au
