La Scala on Jersey

La Scala is very old meets new. While we wait for a table, somebody’s ‘Nonna’ arrives with a basket of heirloom tomatoes and is greeted by a handsome young waiter in a denim apron. This is the new look La Scala, with Tasmanian-born, Naples-raised Massimo Mele at the helm. His ‘everyone to the table’ philosophy is evident in the selection of tasty share plates on the menu. Do yourself a favour and order the Chickpea Pancakes ($18) – they’re crunchy cigars filled with mushroom and spinach, then topped with Gorgonzola sauce. Tuck into the Spicy Fried Calamari ($20), which actually is spicy and comes with a creamy aioli. Even his mains are presented with big scissor-like servers, so share away – even if you want to keep the whole bowl of Oxtail Ragu ($28) to yourself, like I did. The Barossa Elderton “Estate” Shiraz ($69/bottle, $14.50/glass) will smugly cut in on this dance. Slow-cooked Suffolk Lamb Shoulder Chops ($38) are melt-in-your-mouth good and come with a cute jar of salsa verde. Meanwhile, a side of Witlof, Radicchio and Pickled Beetroot ($12) almost steals the show with candied walnuts, goat’s curd and sour cherries. With city views, warm timber fixtures and engaging staff, La Scala certainly hits the high notes.

La Scala on Jersey
Corner Jersey Road & Melrose Lane, Woollahra
Ph: (02) 9357 0815 lascalaonjersey.com.au
Italian $$