Bei Amici

Owner/chef Felix Rutz does a wonderful job in the kitchen, serving premium produce at a price that belies both quality and the location of this warm, little Italian restaurant. Sip on a Bombay Sapphire with fresh mint syrup, lime and soda ($12/glass, $25/pitcher) as you decide on your meal; then move on to try one of their Italian wines (which are conveniently listed with tasting notes) like the 2006 Franz Haas Pinot Blanco ($65). For an entrée, I’m torn between recommending their popular menu stalwart, the Calamari with Pistachios, Cavolo Nero and Fregola with Lemon Dressing ($18); and spruiking the tasty Pumpkin and Parmesan Reggiano Souffle ($17) which comes with a lovely well-dressed salad ‘ both were divine. On the night I dined, the special of Slow Roasted Rump of Coorong Beef ($31) served with braised leeks, roasted kipfler potatoes and tomato compote was exceptional; aided by the quality of the grass-fed, hormone free beef. I also enjoyed the huge oval bowl of Handpicked Mudcrab with Chervil on Lemon Risotto ($35). If you still have room, their Plum and Vanilla Swirl in a Brioche Sandwich ($12) served with a plum and berry compote is a real winner. Service is caring and delightful.

Bei Amici
2b Mona Road, Darling Point
Ph: (02) 9328 0305
Italian $$$-$$$$