10 William St

You could visit 10 William St three times in a week and never get bored. Run by brothers Enrico and Giovanni Paradiso – the brothers behind Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point – this ultimate date spot blends Italian swagger with Australian-style experimentation.

Unlike its Potts Point sibling, “10 Willy,” as it’s affectionately known, is first and foremost a wine bar. Its ever-evolving by-the-glass selection – chalked up on a blackboard by the front window – has played a key role in introducing Sydney to the world of minimal-intervention winemaking. The team is always eager for guests to try something new, and will happily recommend the latest interesting bottle to cross the threshold.

But 10 William St wouldn’t be what it is without its stellar menu, shaped over the years by some of the city’s most exciting chefs, including Dan Pepperell, Luke Burgess, Trisha Greentree, and current head chef Francesco Ruggiero. The menu shifts with the seasons but leans heavily on Italian ingredients and techniques. In summer, expect fresh salads and crisp crudités. As the weather cools, comforting dishes like gamey ragus, polenta, and risottos take center stage.

The space is tight and lively, the atmosphere loud and electric. It’s why in-the-know celebs including Dua Lipa and Action Bronson seek it out. As long as you embrace the rule that there are no rules, you’ll fit right in, too.

A recipe from 10 William St is featured in The Broadsheet Italian Cookbook. Buy your copy at shop.broadsheet.com.au.