Along Bronte Road’s busy shopping and dining strip sits a little slice of Italy – Vacanza. The original sister site to the newer Surry Hill’s venue is a relaxed little eatery, perfect for a casual Italian meal with friends or family.

Hidden behind a giant pizza oven is a long, thin dining room that’s comfortably cosy with small wooden tables, long banquette seating and some interesting displays out of the two windows including a hanging pushbike and life buoy. Upstairs is a more spacious dining room suited to larger groups and families with views over Bronte Road.

The real winner here is the pizza, made with light crispy dough that uses a traditional Italian recipe. Authentic toppings range from the classic Vacanza – Italian fior di latte, Swiss roasted mushrooms, truffle oil & grated pecorino, to the fiery Il Pizzaiolo Diavola – San Marzano tomatoes, fior di latte, Borgo antica hot soppressa, fresh chilli & olives.

A small number of pastas and salads also grace the menu alongside a range of entrees that highlight the delicious Garofalo Buffalo Mozzarella, which is air freighted in especially from Naples. A small drinks list includes local ales and Italian imports alongside Australian and Italian wines and a handful of aperitivos. BYO is also available, which makes for some very affordable beachside dining.