There was a time when Italian eateries punctuated much of the dining options around Sydney inner-east suburbs. Only a few notable mentions remain, with many replaced over time by the diverse offering we enjoy today. Serving up nonna's favourites since 1999, Il Baretto is in no hurry to go anywhere.

A few things come at a premium at this Italian restaurant. Space, for starters. With a densely packed dining area and handwritten menus, the restaurant has a very rustic, authentic feel. The next premium is the food. The menu has no big surprises for an Italian spot, but everything is produced perfectly. If you're with a group, at least one of you should go for the signature main dish — pappardelle with duck ragu — but there are plenty of other traditional options including porcini mushroom risotto and homemade gnocchi with pesto. Round out the meal with one (or all) of the dessert options — tiramisu, pannacotta or affogato — and you'll have had yourself a hard-to-top, traditional Italian feast.

One thing that doesn't come at a premium? The price. Pasta mains average out at $20. And even better, it's BYO.

Images: Letícia Almeida.