The newly refurbished Cricketers Arms Hotel has opened a restaurant next door with an authentically Italian twist. With only 50 seats at One Ford Street, there’s a sense inside of warm Italian intimacy which excludes the hustle and bustle of Darling Street just outside the door.
Head chef Sam Bennett (ex-Fix St James and Glebe Point Diner) prides himself on creating a menu that exudes his passion for honest Italian cooking, focusing on high quality, seasonal ingredients and simple flavours. Among the highlights on offer are oysterblade cipriani with pizza crusts, just-cooked tiger prawns with sugar snaps and caramel, and lamb T-bone steaks with spring fregola salad, mint and almonds. All dishes are designed with the Italian custom for sharing in mind, with numerous ‘trust the chef’ options available.
Step into One Ford Street for a bowl of fresh pasta and a glass of vino as a smart lunch for one, or settle in for a feast at night with family and friends, either inside or in the courtyard, complete with Mediterranean hanging baskets and potted plants that will have you nostalgic for Italy in no time.