Overview
After a six-month residency inside The Exchange Hotel, Secolo Balmain is officially bidding us farewell. The Italian diner had taken over Fabbrica Pasta Bar's previous digs, hoping to lock down a permanent space after closing its original Castlereagh Street outpost, but the crew have now decided that the joint will be shutting its doors for good instead.
But it's not all bad news — the team behind the venue will return to Sydney's food and drink scene later this year with two new eateries. The Arienzale family will be opening Tessuto, a retro-style Italian trattoria, and La Panineria, a dedicated sambo joint, in the CBD later this year.
Owners Anthony, Tanja and Robert Arienzale pictured at Secolo Balmain.
"Things have changed a lot since we made the difficult decision to close our original city venue in the wake of Covid-19 lockdowns and looming construction plans," said Tanja Arienzale, one of Secolo's co-owners. "We have such fond memories of our time in town and we can't wait to welcome back our old customers and meet some new faces."
Tessuto — the Italian word for 'fabric' — draws its name from the building's history, as its occupants from the 1800s were the main importer of Australia's soft goods. Now, the joint is set to serve pastries, focaccia and pizzas from the heritage-listed spot on York Street, with Secolo's Head Chef Mattia Senesi helming its kitchen.
The CBD newcomer will be open for early risers seeking out a morning coffee, as well as those seeking leisurely late afternoon spritzes — and it'll even offer make-your-own pasta options.
As for the second newbie, La Panineria will be a hole-in-the-wall takeaway joint slinging fresh Italian schiacciata (panini). Not only will the outpost feature sambos like the Gladiator, with sliced porchetta, pork crackling, provolone, aioli, friarielli and salsa verde, but it will also do hot coffee and pizza by the slice.
The two soon-to-come venues have yet to release official opening dates, but are estimated to open to the public in the latter half of 2024. Secolo Balmain, however, has announced that it will host its final service on Saturday, May 18, so head to the restaurant's website to book your farewell meal.
You've got until Saturday, May 18, to hit up Secolo Balmain before its final service. Located inside The Exchange Hotel at 94 Beattle Street in Balmain, the restaurant is open from 5.30–10pm Tuesday–Saturday, and 12–3pm for lunch on Saturday. Head to the Tessuto and La Panineria websites for updates on the two upcoming venues.