Sarti is at least three places in one: a favourite of the long-lunch and night-time crowd, thanks to its open-air rooftop terrace; a modern Italian restaurant serving everyone from quiet couples to family birthday groups; and a buzzy, popular cocktail bar. The décor is 1980s Italian nightclub meets nonna’s house: think glossy black and red surfaces and arty details – and a doily under your plate and ornate handbag hooks under the bar. The food is all the classics (antipasti, primi secondi, contorni, dolci, formaggi) presented with the odd nod to current food trends. So there’s a snack of pork crackling, red mullet and finger lime; a risotto of goat’s cheese and burnt pumpkin; grilled spatchcock with peanut crumble, and a cannolo with Pink Lady apple mousse. Likewise, the wine list covers all the expected Italian bases, but also includes some surprisingly serious, older and more unusual bottles at surprisingly sensible prices.
This review was made independently for the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide. The guide’s reviewers visit unannounced and pay their way.
Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide
Wine: ★ ★
Gourmet Traveller’s star-ratings, which range from zero to three stars, reflect reviewers’ first-hand experiences. The best-rated restaurants form our national Top 100. Our wine ratings, from zero to three stars, are made by wine editor Max Allen on the strength of the quality of the restaurant’s wine list. View our rating key here.
