Since 1983, Lucio's has brought together two of the best things in life — Italian food and art — in a beautiful terrace in Paddington. Owner Lucio Galletto OAM says the combination is like the air he breathes. The fare is of the Northern Italian variety, made with fresh, seasonal produce and pasta whipped up on-the-spot daily. To sample as many dishes as possible, go for the six-course degustation, and between the courses of hearty eats, feast your eyes on the stunning Australian artworks covering the walls. They're part of Lucio's private collection, and among them, you'll spot pieces by John Olsen, John Coburn, Tim Storrier, Charles Blackman and loads of others. Some even speculate that Lucio's could be one of the world's best art restaurants, along with New York City's Four Seasons, London's Sketches and Ivy and Provence's La Colombo d'Or.

Image: Jesse Jaco.