Overview
A new Italian joint headed up by Executive Chef Danny Russo has moved into the former Flying Fish site at the end of Jones Bay Wharf. Sala is set to open its doors on Friday, November 25, promising fresh takes on Italian classics and plenty of seafood in a 160-seat space.
"We wanted to call on nostalgic Italian flavours and give them a modern flair to offer a sophisticated yet playful experience to diners," Russo says.
Renowned hospitality duo Kerrie and Con Dedes of the Dedes Waterfront Group round out the team. Through the use of a far-reaching ingredients list, the group has created impressive new takes on Italian standards.
For example, a simple Italian dish like Risoni has been elevated with the use of caviar and parmesan. Other highlights include the likes of Russo's signature squid ink tortellini with crab meat in a lemon and caper sauce, a full crudo bar, bucatini with duck ragu, and a deceivingly realistic-looking hazelnut made with chocolate from Haerfield's Chocolate Artisan.
Head Sommelier Rocco Pezzullo has curated a predominantly Italian wine list that's sure to pair well with your tortellini, and Bar Manager Behzad Vaziri's cocktail spans Italian classics (there's a full range of negronis) and signature mixes. These unique Sala creations are all inspired by the sea, featuring the likes of the Oyster Shell Martini made with Never Never Oyster Shell Gin, and the Mediterranean Slide which combines Mastica, limoncello, egg white and basil.
As for the fit-out, that's been handled by The General Store. The design agency's Chief Strategy Officer Danny Lattouf says: "We set out to create the most authentically Sydney dining experience, with the welcoming Greek heritage of the Dedes Group and the Dedes family, the Italian culinary mastery from the Russolini Group and Danny himself, and then the heritage of this stunning harbour and the building itself."
Sala is located at Jones Bay Wharf, Piers 19–21, 26/32 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont. It will open on Friday, November 25. Bookings are open now.