We love a reliable local, but Sagra is a little more than reliable, and attracts more than just locals, too. This cute dimly lit cottage on Darlinghurst’s once infamous Stanley Street has an even cuter menu, that places importance on pasta as a mid course. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find better pasta anywhere in Sydney – it’s that good. Owned by a young trio, Michael Otto, Jared Lanuza and Edward Saxton, they’ve placed emphasis on simplicity by championing the produce of the season on the short daily changing menu of four antipasti, four primi and four secondi, with a short, sharp and highly accessible wine list that traverses Italy and Australia.

In a simple L-shaped space with wooden floors, pendant lighting and candles, friendly waitstaff deliver small plates of joy with aplomb. Start with the soft creamy caress of burrata, given a boost from shaved bottarga and texture from pangrattato. Fennel, capers and finger lime add a refreshing edge to ocean trout crudo, then the signature pork ragu, rich, unctuous and lovingly wrapped in long ribbons of house-made pappardelle. The ragu may be the signature, but the Jerusalem artichoke tortellini with porcini and sage steals the show. Earthy with alluring depth – it’s one of the best things you’ll eat. Braised until super soft, green beans are served with anchovy and tender lamb shoulder. All you need now is a big scoop of tiramisu and you’re done.