BELLA BACiATA - Circular Quay

Bella Baciata brings a genuine slice of Italy to Circular Quay, and the word around Sydney is that this little spot is worth seeking out. It sits just a short walk from the Circular Quay tram stop, though plenty of people mention it's easy to miss, so keep your eyes open. Once you find it, you're in for artisanal pizza by the slice and their signature wood-fired panini, the 'Baciata', filled with Italian ingredients from a menu that changes day to day.

The pizza slices get plenty of love here, with a wood-fired base people keep praising for its flavour and toppings that come fresh and generous. The Baciata panini have their own following too, made fresh and sent out quickly by a team that clearly knows what they're doing. Regulars talk about working their way through the whole menu, from the Salmino to the Rocco (one local swears the hot honey add-on is the way to go). Many finish with a Crema Caffè, which gets a mention again and again. Fair prices come up often, with more than one person calling it good value for the quality, though one did find the panini a touch steep for the size. On balance, people leave happy and keen to return.

The service is a big part of why folks come back. Staff are warm and welcoming, and a fellow named Nico has been known to send out a complimentary treat that makes the visit feel a little extra special. There's a handful of seats outside, so it suits a quick lunch, a picnic grab or a casual bite between meetings. The entrance and seating are wheelchair accessible, and it's a welcoming, LGBTQ+ friendly spot.

Bella Baciata keeps daytime hours and is open through the week, so it's best suited to a lunch run rather than dinner. Check the hours before you head in, and go hungry for something properly Italian.