By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Winter may be making its presence felt, but Sydneysiders can now escape to the Amalfi Coast - no passport required - via Gina, a new waterfront restaurant in Barangaroo that offers a soul-warming Italian sanctuary in the heart of the Harbour City.
Taking over the former Tequila Daisy site on the harbourfront promenade, Gina invites you to a culinary getaway inspired by a dreamy Summer spent exploring Italy’s coastal towns. One where classic antipasti and Aperol Spritzes flow as freely as the sea breeze that wafts from beach to trattoria.
Photo Credit: Steve Woodburn.
Gina’s interiors, designed by Tom Mark Henry, are an ode to Mediterranean warmth: golden terrazzo, glossy amber tiles, rattan pendents and rich timber evoke long lunches in coastal Positano or rooftop dinners in Rome. A sprawling wraparound terrace, complete with heaters and covered sections, ensures the la dolce vita spirit lives on - rain, hail or crisp Winter breeze.
Similarly, its menu, cultivated by Group Executive Chef Michael Chang (formerly of hatted Maydanoz) and Sicilian-born Head Chef Giuseppe Pappalardo (ex-Molto Italian), blends Italian tradition with seasonal Australian produce to deliver a relaxed yet elevated menu designed for every day of the week.
Try the whipped ricotta laced with pistachio pesto to start – it’s as smooth as a charming Italian named Fabrizo. Head to the bar, where cold cuts, including LP’s mortadella, are sliced to order.
Perhaps celebrate the star that is the five varieties of silky pasta - hand-rolled every day. If in doubt, opt for the pappardelle with Moreton Bay bug and chilli oil. For something more substantial, the arancini balls, fresh crudo and grilled steaks prove that at Gina, flavour is a first-class standard.
Photo Credit: Steve Woodburn.
Behind the bar, acclaimed Mixologist Grant Collins (Zephyr, Gin Lane) has created a cocktail list that’s both playful and refined, celebrating Italian classics with a twist. Meanwhile, the 200-strong wine list spans Italy and Australia, from everyday pours to rare cellar gems.
Whether you're settling in for a long lunch, dropping by for a midweek Martini or rounding up friends for a waterfront dinner, Gina invites you to escape the chill and bask in the spirit of a never-ending Summer.
