Osteria Coogee

Overview

With an impressive resume to his name — including popular Sydney venues such as Toko, Riley St Garage, Tequila Mockingbird and Surly's — you may have heard of Regan Porteous. Now the renowned chef is stepping out on his own as a restaurateur for the first time, opening Italian eatery Osteria Coogee.

Showcasing authentic Italian cuisine, Osteria is inspired by Porteous' multiple trips to Italy with his partner Carolina to visit her family. Specifically, the Coogee newcomer aims to flip misconceptions about Italian food, including just what we think it really is.

Chef Stefano Gagliardi has created a unique menu of classic Italian dishes with a contemporary Australian twist. On the menu is a porcini and truffle gnocchi; kingfish crudo with lemon, parsley and black garlic; and butterflied spatchcock with caponata — plus Gagliardi's family recipe tiramisu. But the hefty dose of Italian culture doesn't just end with the food. Porteous wants every diner at the restaurant to enjoy the family-centred eating ethos that's prominent in Italy, with Osteria's culinary lineup designed to be shared.

While the restaurant officially opens its doors on Wednesday, May 15, it's in soft-trading mode until then if you're already keen to drop by. Adding aperitivo hour to your calendar is recommended — akin to an Italian happy hour, it runs from 5–7pm Wednesday–Sunday. That's when you can sip $10 Aperol spritzes, as well as Italicus and Americano cocktails, and nibble on free snacks with every drink purchase from 5–6pm.