The Restaurant Pendolino

599 reviews

Shop 100/412/414 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

www.pendolino.com.au

+61292316117

About

The Restaurant Pendolino is a Italian restaurant located at Shop 100/412/414 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia. It has received 599 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday12-3PM
Tuesday12-3PM
Wednesday5:30-8:45PM
ThursdayClosed
FridayClosed
Saturday12-2:30PM
Sunday12-3PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of The Restaurant Pendolino: Shop 100/412/414 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

  • The Restaurant Pendolino has 4.5 stars from 599 reviews

  • Italian restaurant

  • "The Restaurant Pendolino deserves more than 5 stars My husband and I booked a 4-course meal for his birthday dinner and everything was just sublime"

    "It’s been a long time between events, and, with the hospitality industry being one of the hardest hit by the pandemic, it was well overdue for a party"

    "We went there to have dinner before go to a Movie during the Sydney Film Festival"

    "Pendolino is an Italian restaurant, which serves food in either 3-, 4- or 6-course menus"

    "About as good as dining out gets, at least for the likes of me and my Seven Hills suburban sensibilities"

Reviews

  • Ianne D

The Restaurant Pendolino deserves more than 5 stars My husband and I booked a 4-course meal for his birthday dinner and everything was just sublime. From the complimentary breads (which I must say deserve a review of its own as they were amazing!) to the first course all the way to the end of the meal, everything was just beyond compare. Although, the night wouldn’t have been perfect if it weren’t for the exemplary service of their staff, all of them, and we would like to make a special mention to Oliver, Andrew, and Ben, for taking pride in their service and making sure that we are having one of the best dinner experience we’ve ever had in a while. They deserve all the compliments they will be receiving and have received, as I’m sure this was not and will not be the only time they’re recognised. The whole time we were there, my husband and I were already planning on coming back. We sure do hope they receive more than bountiful glowing compliments. I am a bit confused by some of the reviews stating that they were surprised when they were handed their bill, implying that they were somehow duped into paying hidden charges for drinks, for that was just far from our experience. They certainly make you aware of the costs of everything that is not part of your meal, e.g. handing you a menu of wine selection before pouring you a glass from their cart. You really have to pay attention to your sommelier and the wait staff. One bit of advice, don’t go there and ignore them, and then complain about having to pay for the wine. I’m sorry if that sounds a bit harsh, but this restaurant and its staff deserve better reviews, fair reviews. Before I forget, hats off to everyone in that kitchen, you guys are magicians! The food, my goodness, it’s just perfection! Thank you The Restaurant Pendolino, you’ve earned our patronage.

  • Jackie McMillan

It’s been a long time between events, and, with the hospitality industry being one of the hardest hit by the pandemic, it was well overdue for a party. Luckily PorkStar, Australian Pork Ltd’s foodservice brand, know how to throw a good shindig. They gathered together Sydney’s most influential chefs, farmers and food industry leaders, and assembled them around head chef and restauranteur, Nino Zoccali’s table. Quite fitting really, as Pendolino Strand Arcade Sydney sits right in the epicentre of the CBD venues hardest hit by our changing behaviour through the course of the pandemic. After greeting industry standouts like Darren Templeman, Danny Russo, Mark Jensen, Colin Fassnidge, Manu Feildel, and Miguel Maestre, along with key food media, like ABC Sydney’s Simon Marnie and Lyndey Milan OAM, the 60 of us sat down to an indulgent feast. Australian pork was of course the centrepiece, across dumplings in trotter and pork bone broth, and Zia Lidia’s olive-stuffed polpettine served split and skewered in a puddle of creamy joy. Under a sheet of translucent lardo, rounds of toothsome corzetti (Roman coin pasta) mingled with a rosemary-spiked blonde bolognaise. Perfectly pink in the centre, pork tournedos, served alongside beetroot rapa, autumn vegetables and fennel spice, were almost upstaged by an accompanying bowl of Nino’s wonderful pork fat Dutch cream spuds. Even the classic Pendolino nougat semifreddo got its own porky infusion, with a pork fat crostini dusted in icing sugar. Best thing about the night: hearing chefs talk about the pivots they made during COVID-19 to save their businesses, feed their staff, and nourish the parts of themselves that got them into hospitality in the first place. I left extremely well nourished and buoyed about the dining year ahead.

  • Thiago Baldim

We went there to have dinner before go to a Movie during the Sydney Film Festival. And very conveniently they have a pre theatre menu. That includes a tasting plate with 4 bite-sized experiences. 2 of them I liked very much, simply delicious. The sweet corn soup was good. And one of the options was very salty for my taste. Talking about salt, I would like to suggest to the chef to keep a little bit of salt at the table to enhance the flavours of the three types of olive oils on the table. The experience is great, although for the first and third olive oil option the salt bring more the fruitness of the third oil and balance better the lemon olive oil. Regarding the dish, I can say is one of the best pasta dishes I've had in Sydney. I had the blond duck bolognese and was perfect in every bite. Be aware, the dish has nothing even close to a traditional bolognese. Is a white sauce base dish. But was amazing. Well balanced and executed. My wife had the ravioli, and was perfect as well. But my favourite was the duck. We had the merengue dessert, such well thought dish. Where we got an entree for the dessert, that was a new thing for me, and then the dessert well balanced with all elements right. Sweet, acidity, crunchy. About the wine service, was very good with attention to detail. Nothing to complain about it. At the end we got nice chocolate balls . That was a surprise. Probably we will go back for the 6 course menu, but the 2 course menu already made my night.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$120–140
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Ravioli, Assorted Bread Rolls
Wheelchair accessibility
Can use the lift from the gallery.

  • Sesame Sprinkles

Pendolino is an Italian restaurant, which serves food in either 3-, 4- or 6-course menus. Upon request, they provide an extra menu for vegans. For each course, you can choose from a couple of options, so you have several options (similar to the "regular" menu). Considering the fact that the prices here are quite high (starting at 140$ per person for the 3 course menu), you should be able to expect a proper fine dining experience. In terms of food, however, it was just okay. I clearly preferred some dishes over other dishes. Compared to the food my non-vegan friends had, some vegan dishes seemed a bit lacking (as if they had simply removed the non-vegan component). At other times, the plating was a bit "questionable". But staff was lovely and service was very good. There were several waiters and waitresses providing us with information about food and drinks, and even supplied us with extra treats on the house. The restaurant is located on the 2nd floor inside a shopping mall. The atmosphere is elegant and old-fashioned: Individual tables, wooden furntiure and white table cloth. Booking a table in advance is required.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$140–160
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Vegetarian options
vegan menu available

  • Stevie Melissa Grantham

About as good as dining out gets, at least for the likes of me and my Seven Hills suburban sensibilities. Eat here for that special occassion and I guarantee you won't be disappointed. Sure it's expensive but it's worth it to create one of the greatest dining out experiences you'll ever have. Every dish "sparks up" in its own way, brings such a power of flavour you'd be hard pressed to not enjoy it. There's plenty of olive oil and for mine just the right balance of savoury complement. The service is exceptional, and it helped that our waiter spoke Serbo-Croat (the language of my wife's people) to add to that whole European atmosphere. White sheets on tables, wine bottles on cellared walls, low light and jazz in the background create a wonderful Italian restaurant atmosphere. They even played "It Never Entered My Mind" by Mile's Davis, which felt pretty special because I tried writing lyrics to it once.... It's the sort of restaurant where they take your coat and make you feel important, if only for a few hours. Reserve this place for something special, or go a few times - there's plenty of fun to be had. Pricey but what is the point of money if not to spend it on moments like this? Happy 50th, Sandra. Love you mate.

  • Elissa

Really, really over-rated. This is an Italian restaurant but I struggled to taste the Italian influence in anything they served, all you can taste is salt, in literally everything but dessert. It’s also very expensive for what it is. I’ve done plenty of fine dining & happy to pay for great food, but although they’re trying hard here, they’re missing the mark & over-charging for the experience. The seating is very uncomfortable, and I think that when you’re paying $160 per person for 4 courses, you at least want to sit comfortably during the process, not shifting uncomfortably every few minutes. I beg you Pendolino owners - buy new chairs!! The markup on the wine is absurd, a $140 bottle of Shiraz being sold for $385. Just wow. This is unnecessary profit-grabbing, especially considering it’s not BYO so you have no choice but to buy their wine if you want a glass with dinner. It does have a lovely ambience and in a wonderful location in The Strand, but I’m sorry to say I won’t be going back.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$180–200

  • T D

This is our first time returning after a couple of years, we were so excited to come back. Unfortunately Pendolino did not deliver. Their Set Menu option is very overpriced, we ended up paying $800.00 for 4 people which included 3 alcoholic drinks. Although this seems like the norm these days the food was not up to scratch at all. Our entree of Zuchini Flowers with Prawns was over salted and the mains were very small serves. My main of the gnocchi with veal was the biggest disappointment, I’m not sure if they forgot to add the gnocchi however I could not find them, I had a plate of sloppy melted cheese with an occasional tiny ounce of veal. It felt like eating grilled cheese without the toast, honestly the strangest dish I have ever had. Either the gnocchi melted or someone left them out. Service was great and the little touches of the Amuse Bouche and palette cleanser along with the amazing bread and oil are still really perfect. Pendolino was our absolute faveourite for Italian however I’m sad to say we won’t be back in a hurry.

  • Joe Richards

Pushy service, pescatarian main was bit of fried cheese with burnt calamari crumbs, pasta ears (black oricheitte) dish with prawn had a decent taste but degustation size, staff interrupted constantly at awkward moments with non-urgent awkward questions, overall mediocre food (ranging from poor to great but mostly poor), small portions, overpriced, inconsiderately pushed eftpos at our faces at the end of a skimpy meal with no explanation and would not visit again. I’ve had many top end Italian meals and this is not a scratch on it. Glimpses of brilliance but not enough to justify its rating, I would be embarrassed to run this place (sadly, wanted to find something brilliant). Vegan member of our table thought it was bland and unimaginative. Came home and felt like eating something decent.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+

  • Guy Soper

This was the worst restaurant ive ever experienced. Only got half of what was ordered off the menu . Everything was more french cuisine than Italian in ridiculously small portions . I got something in a cup of olive oil with corn kernels at the bottom , they were stuck so the owner approached me and asked if i would like a little spoon like the mice and rats use ! I thought what a thing to say to a customer how rude and insulting . My main corse i ordered the kingfish . What i got was something that looked like a clear prawn chip with 2 tea spoons of pecks paste and some garnish . Walked out feeling insulted and ripped off .
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$140–160
Dietary restrictions
Good if your not hungry and want to spend a lot of money while being insulted . Nothing like Italian food !

  • Dounia Labban

What a splendid establishment the Pendolino is! The culinary offerings are truly exceptional, brimming with delightful flavors that bring sheer joy to the palate. Each dish on the menu exhibits remarkable quality, immaculate presentation, and sheer delight in every bite. The service provided is nothing short of impeccable, characterized by a discreet, friendly, and highly efficient staff. I must express my sincere appreciation for the exceptional dining experience this establishment provided. The menu is truly excellent, and the ambiance exudes a lively and vibrant atmosphere. My heartfelt gratitude extends to the entire staff, who performed flawlessly. I wholeheartedly recommend this establishment to all discerning diners.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Steph Di Val

Really lovely time was had. Big shout outs to the Charcoal Foccacia and Michael who waited on us. If you have the time and $$ to invest in doing the 6 Course Degustation AND wine pairing, it's wholeheartedly worth it. Food and wine both delicious. Palate cleanser at the end was sharp and did the trick. Was appreciative of swapping out one dish for another, despite it being a set menu. The only things I could maybe nitpick were that the courses felt like they came out a little too quickly, especially given there was wine to finish with each one and the plates while nice looking don't really let you cutlery lean on it. Cutlery kept sliding onto the plate and into the food. Not the end of the world, just a little messy.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

  • Kj Lange

We just had the best dinner experience at Pendolino. Bianca, our sommelier, was on point with her recommendations and knowledge. Her personality and our shared stories of Italian wine made our dinner so enjoyable. We chose a 2016 Amarone which aerated beautifully and tasted differently each time she poured it Our waiter, Youneh, was delightful. Seriously professional but easy to crack a smile as the evening went on. Our food was wonderfully presented and did not disappoint. Although we hardly had room, we ordered great desserts. We had to order a taxi after dinner because we didn't feel like walking back to our hotel. Five stars all around. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Leni #

6 of us went to dinner. The service was impeccable with friendly staff and service. The food was well presented and even though it was fine dining a lot of work went into each dish. Compliments to the chef. If I needed to find something about this restaurant would be the price but overall an amazing night. Just an apology for leaving late, im sure the staff warned to go home but no one complained. And a huge thank you to the chefs who gave up complementary potatoes and salad. By the end of the night we were so full. Thank you to the chefs and staff for a memorable night.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$180–200
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Hev

This was our first and last time visiting Pendolino. 4 of us had the Pre-Theatre Early Dinner on Saturday. The food was great but unfortunately, the service was underwhelming and unpleasant. When we declined the upselling/offer of a glass of sparkling (as we had already decided to order other drinks) the response from the waiter was abrasive and condescending. As meals were arriving at another table close by, the waitress was obviously annoyed that they weren’t ready and wasn’t discreet when saying something to other staff. Overall, the service was lacking professionalism and spoiled our experience.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100–120

  • Michelle Griffin

Only 2nd time I have been here & I absolutely love this place. The food is amazing & the service is great & all with a dimly- lit ambience, which I love. I don't like brightly lit restaurants. The Sommelier who served us was awesome at pairing a wine with our different courses. Thank you Sir Anthony(I thought he looked like a young Anthony Hopkins). I will 100% be back on a regular basis. It was actually my b'day & I couldn't have gone to a better place.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Ravioli, Tuna Tartare, Heirloom Cauliflower & Broccoli Vegan

  • Ilya Genkin

Been there a few times for a business lunches. Service is good, but in general I always feel it’s a bit overpriced. Normally you get a small bowl of olive oil and bread in Italian restaurants for free, but here you have to order it for $12.5. Really?! Chicken meatball soup was tasty, but the portion was quite small (definitely not enough for a man for lunch) and for $16 you are expecting at least a slice of bread, but it was just a small bowl of soup. Chicken ‘schnitzel’ wad ok, but again for that price you are expecting something different than just ‘schnitzel’. Pasta is tasty and cannot complain here yet also feels a bit overpriced. Probably won’t go there on my own.

  • kieran gallagher

My goodness that was seriously one of the most inspired and delightful meals I've ever eaten. Thought I was just popping in for a pre show bite but was treated to one of the most sublime dining experiences I've ever had. The layers of flavour were complimentary and inspired and the meal was delicately crafted to bring out the most of the ingredients. Loved every single piece of this experience. Just wow. And thank you.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$140–160
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Fried Olives, Pendolino Classic Nougat Semifreddo, Corzetti, Signature Tasting Plate

  • Alex Ball

The food was amazing so a few weeks after I recommended to a friend , so we both went together. The amount of dirty looks and rudeness from waiters was shocking. We then let Andrew the manager know and he chuckled saying it’s been a busy night , with no apology at all. This isn’t what hospitality should be at all , I’ve been to packed restaurants with the best service. The food was still amazing but I could not believe the lack of apology and a laugh in our faces. We paid about $700 just for the two of us girls so it’s crazy that we deserved that kind of service ?
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+

  • Rudy Gunawan

This place is the high temple of Italian pasta restaurant in Sydney and their pasta dishes are the best we ever had in Sydney. We love their food and customer services. Their decor / ambience is also quite good though a bit too dark for my liking. Their price / value proposition is actually not too bad for their food offerings, but their high prices on wine offering almost always kills the buzz on any dinner session there. It's hard not to wash your pasta dinner with good wines and they know where they can get their profits. Can't blame them too much but certainly will deter many customers to visit the place more often.

  • jevan sayer

Every thing about Pendolinos is absolutely delicious , Couldn't fault it at all ........................ until it was time to pay the bill . it was an embarrassment , Over changed on condiments & added drinks to the value of hundreds of dollars , for 1/2 doz oysters at $6-50 i was charge $270 & as i said they added bottles of wine i never saw . I left very disgruntled , it really spoilt my night ............................... Beautiful dinning experience but please check you bills .
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+
Food: 5
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 5

  • Ankur Gandhi

Such a shame. Very bad experience with food and service. Ordered 3 course menu with the intent of having desert too but we left the food half way and paid hell lot of money for nothing. Food was so bland that I can't imagine. Lamb pasta was not having a single piece of lamb and it was full of olives that the taste become bitter and sour. Rivolli was their signature dish but it was so bad that can't imagine. On top of that the lady who serves the special drink did not give us the special price menu up front and offered us a drink. We started drinking and then we get the shocking high priced menu.

  • Marcus Liew

Pendolino in the Strand Arcade stands as a true Sydney institution in the realm of fine dining. It consistently maintains its reputation by delivering not only the finest tasting food but also exemplary service that sets it apart. The noteworthy wine list further enhances the dining experience. Pendolino's enduring excellence makes it a must-visit for those seeking a combination of culinary mastery, attentive service, and an ambiance that captures the essence of Sydney's dining scene.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Brian Cheng

I came here to celebrate a friend's birthday. I've been here a number of times over the years. The staff were very accommodating as we had a baby in our party. Great, friendly service from all the staff, and a great wine suggestion from Heesoo (I hope I got your name right). Heesoo and the rest of the staff made sure we were looked after the entire time we were there. The food was very good, and while not everything worked for me, it was all prepared and cooked with a high level of skill. Overall a very good night (this place filled up very quickly). I'd go back there anytime.

  • C Nguyen

Food quality and service were on point. However service from sommelier was surprising enough to prompt a review. I couldn't decide between two types of wine and asked for a taste test, but the sommelier wouldn't provide a sample and asked me to taste from my dining partner's glass. Never had I experienced this strange and dismissive service from a sommelier! How much wine would be in a taste test? 10ml? Will not return.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$160–180
Food: 3
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3

  • Brad Staples

Pendolino; where have you been all my life? What an amazing experience! We had lunch here today - on World Pasta Day no less - and it was bellissimo!! The food was incredible! I had the Agnolotti and it was so full of flavour, the pasta was very fresh. It was perfection. The potatoes, Zucchini soup, bread were all excellent. The staff were very friendly and efficient. They were very busy, but they were very attentive. Our meals arrived within 10 minutes of ordering. No complaints what so ever. One of the best dining experiences I've ever had. ciao!

  • Robert M

We celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary with our family members. Pendolino made this one of our most memorable. The service was totally attentive without being intrusive. Our waiter was very knowledgeable and made great recommendations on the food and wine which we accepted. Each dish was special and enjoyable. Must try’s include the beef cheek, the ravioli and prawn pasta. Our waiter suggested we ordered a few different desserts to share around the table and this was fantastic as we got to taste a bit of everything.

  • Anna Vallhonesta

My partner and I celebrated our anniversary in this fabulous restaurant. The staff were really accommodating, nice and polite. The food was awesome we had the 4 course menu and loved all the plates. Not to talk about the huge variety of drinks they offer… love. We will definitely be coming back. Thank you to all the staff for making our night extra special. At the end of our meal we were presented with a bottle of olive oil and chocolates❤️
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+

  • De L

One of Sydney’s finest Italian fine-dining restaurants. The food is delicious, although expensive, still worth making at least one visit for a special Occassion. I had the spaghetti with crab as a entree and the duck as a main- both impeccable and delicious. The also provide an complementary bites to eat when you arrive, and a while bread cart to choose your own bread- this was such a nice touch and the bread and olive oil were so so yummy! The wine is quite pricey but worth it when matches well to your meal.

  • Adam Spilsted

My wife and i celebrated our wedding anniversary in the city was looking for a nice italian restaurant to dine. And we sure did find it Pendolino was very nice and great place to take the wife. Staff were really accommodating and polite, food was fantastic we had the 3 course menu , large selection of wines to choose from we will definitely be coming back. Thank you to all the staff for making our night extra special. At the end of our meal we were presented with a bottle of olive oil and cookies.

  • Anita H

Coming from Italy went here to try some Italian food however I believe this is more like Aussie/Italian food rather than authentic Italian food. The staff are really friendly and professional and the food was quite good. Just a bit too salty for our taste but the flavours were interesting. The vibe was good too. Overall a nice romantic experience. Worth a try
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$180–200
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Janey McGoldrick

Amazing food and service! Simply divine and my all time Sydney fav! Went last night for bday dinner (following an awful experience at Biota, Bowral - don’t go!) Pendelino more than made up for it..gifted their beautiful Olive Oil as a bday gesture, ravioli (fresh pasta made there) simply lush and beef, Pinot noir...all fabulous. The staff are wonderful...this should be a 2 Hat restaurant! Thank you Pendelino for excelling once again! #bellissimo

  • Samnang Khun

The food was very satisfying and I would recommend the fish but it seemed as though they were rushing us out before we even started. We had ordered the set menu and the waiter had taken our bread before we had finished. They then proceeded to take away our forks before we had finished with our oysters. We weren't late to our booking and others were served after us. We would have be ok with this service at other places but they don't usually charge us $195 per person.

  • Sheraden Sharma

My husband and I shared our first wedding anniversary here, the service was exceptional and the food was fantastic. I have been here a few times and keep coming back! A beautiful cosy romantic restaurant.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+
Dietary restrictions accommodated
Vegetarian, Vegan
Recommendation for vegetarians
Highly recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Large vegetarian selection

  • TotalHang

Really excellent service. Every staff member went above and beyond to make our dinner special. Great food, excellent pairing with wine menu. Would come back here anytime.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$160–180
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Dietary restrictions
They catered to every one of our guests. Not one special requirement was missed!

  • Thana S

The atmosphere was excellent. The staffs were very attentive and food presentation was very nice. The ingredients used were high quality. However, we find the taste a bit lacking for the price. The complementary olive oils were good. Red wine risotto and the mix seafood main were great. Truffle pasta was a bit too salty for me. Pork belly was not tender at all. Recommended for the atmosphere but not the food.

  • Julian Si

Great atmosphere both for business and romantic outings, but the wine service was a little pushy.. and the food was average at best. Pity, for AUD 150-200 per head. Extensive wine list though, with fair restaurant wine prices. Desserts were the best part, creative and tasty.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$160–180
Food: 3
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 5

  • S. McMahon

Every time we visit this restaurant, we are reminded of the quality authentic foods, wines and attentive service. It might be high priced though have you read up on the recognised awards this business has been awarded. You’re paying for a pleasant night out enjoying some fine foods with accompanying wines provided by the sommelier Raffa. Repeat customer since 2010, thank you to the team @ Pendolino

  • Nichole YD

Delicious food and genuinely a fine dining restaurant that I see myself returning to. The quality of the food was divine. They also prepared lovely present for my bday. services were really attentive. The only thing I would mention was that there were some drinks served from the carts without the pricing being introduced. We have no issues paying for things, but would have been great if we were notified.

  • bec bucci

Wow I have never been so insulted in my life… after sitting from 6.30pm to 7.30pm being served only bread and one glass of champagne to being affronted by Andrew the restaurant manager who seemed very offended to receive my feedback. And was so lovely to be so rude to embarrass myself and my mother in-front of adjourning guests we promptly left. Worst dinning experience of my life
Service
Dine in

  • Zoe Poulos

Incredible experience. The restaurant is beautiful and we were impressed by their COVIDSafe measures. Food was delicious, plated beautifully and they catered a fully vegan four course meal for me which was not just salads. Vegan is obviously an inconvenient requirement but they rose to the challenge to accomodate me which I really appreciate. Totally recommend to anyone who wants a special dinner!

  • David Le

Absolutely amazing experience. Course after course of delicious, surprising, inventive dishes, with a good range of wines, many by the glass and half-glass. All topped off by great service from staff who are happy to engage and talk about the food and drinks. In such a small and intimate restaurant, you're sometimes being served by the chefs themselves which gives you great insight into the food.

  • John

Had the vegetarian six course tasting menu with matching wines as part of the tasting menu, with matching wine pairings. Experience, ambiance, service and food was fantastic, as one would expect. Great place to celebrate a special occasion and/or create lasting memories.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+
Recommended dishes
Signature Tasting Vegan

  • Jay Maheta

We went here for our 9 years anniversary dinner and I bought 4 course meal. The meal was too salty and it too long for our food to arrive that we lost our appetite. I guess the idea is to savour the moment but it was far too long and the chairs are super-uncomfortable to be seating for 1.30 minutes meal. The place is falling apart with ceiling has cables hanging from it. Wouldn’t recommend this.

  • Bernadette Ellisha

Last time I visited Pondolino was in 2018. I have to say they stepped up their game offering the tasting course. The wine matching was excellent. It stands out against the very rich 6 tasting courses. I found the sommelier to be knowledgeable and extremely passionate about the wine provenance. Service was excellent, everything moving in sync.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

  • Derek Woo

Been here twice and enjoyed each visit. As soon as you walk out from the lifts, you are greeted by very polite and professional wait staff. Definitely suggest asking Raffa for suggestion as to what to drink based on the food you order. They have a fine selection of alcohol (my pick is the whisky or reds). My favourite dish is the burrata entree although all of the food tasted great!

  • Locky De

The service was astonishing, the food was appetizing, the atmosphere was amazing. If your not sure what to drink they have an in house sommelier to help you find the right wine to match with your meal which helped me alot! Your also provided with the Pendolino oils with dipping bread to snack on as an appetizer Make sure you make a booking and most of all enjoy!

  • Cheree Banister

Had dinner here for our anniversary and it was amazing. All the staff knew we were there for an occasion and each we walked past wished us a happy anniversary. The food was delicious, one delicious course after another. Wines were matched, our glasses never dry. The venue itself has so much character and we honestly couldn't be happier with our evening spent here.

  • Goga Bad

This place is a true gem in the heart of downtown! We were recommended his cookbook so since we’re visiting Sydney we had to have dinner here… it was AMAZING! Everything was delicious! I had the duck and hubby licked up the tagliatelle with mushrooms as well as the shrimp & kale risotto!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Lucy Xiao

The forest mushroom pasta was the best I have ever had (so good I didn't even take a photo to). The sommelier definitely knows his stuff - the wines he recommended went very well with the meal. They offer such a nice bread basket with premium olive oils that you have to be really careful not to get full on those before the meal even starts!

  • Costin Enache

Happened to notice it when walking past, we were lucky enough to find a table. A wonderful surprise, excellent authentic Italian food, a very well appointed wine list, and perfect service. It felt like being in Italy, or event better. We will definitely come back.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+

  • C. B. D.

Food was lovely (classic ravioli and chocolate eclair are specifically fantastic [pictures])! Had some special palette cleanser surprises and it made for a wonderful experience!! Only sad part was their wines were all too expensive... if they offered more affordable options, I’m sure they’d be making more dough …

  • Tiffy L

All the dishes me and my family ordered today are perfect. There are 3 types of olive oils on the table for the breads, and all 3 tastes excellent. The service of their waiters are really nice, best service I’ve experienced in Australia so far. I love this restaurant, definitely will visit again if I have chance!

  • laura mcmahon

Absolutely perfect. We have went every year for our anniversary and the food and experience is always sublime. The olive oil tasting is such a beautiful little detail to begin. And from their the carpaccio and ravioli are my favourite dishes of all time to eat!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

  • Josh Marchant

Been meaning to try this place for some time and it didnt disappoint. Service was exceptional. Branka was a absolute delight. We had the 6 course tasting menu and it was all delicious but I'll be back to eat a giant plate of the ravioli. I was told it's been in the menu for a long time and I can see why!

  • Rhyannon Barker

Lovely restaurant, the food was very tasty with good choices. Quiet atmosphere made it easy to converse. Staff were friendly and attentive. Will definitely go back.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$140–160
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Paula Miranda

Amazing restaurant! Fantastic food and impeccable service. We went to Pendolino for our wedding anniversary and we were impressed with the quality of the food, everything very tasty. It's a bit pricey as they only have the set menu options, but it's worth. Super recommend for a special occasion!

  • Glenn Earl-Peacock

Superb food complimented by excellent friendly service. From the moment we arrived the staff were excellent, there when you needed them and non intrusive. The food, flavours and presentation, is exemplary. The added small tasting dishes between courses enhances the overall dining experience.

  • Dave Lee

Bread = 4/5 Tasting plate = 4/5 Kingfish = 4/5 Beef Crudo = 5/5 Frittura Milanese = 1/5 (looked like kids fish fingers and corner shop seafood basket) Pastissada = 2/5 (beef tasted dry, the jus tasted a bit bitter) Desserts 4/5. I would go back, just stay away from the mains that we ordered.

  • Ben Mader

The food was nice but not fitting of the price. The location was lost as there were no window views anywhere. It was also challenging to go to the toilet as you had to leave the restaurant and ride an elevator to another floor. I have eaten Italian food with more flavour for half the price.

  • Nina Fard

Pendolino serves the best Italian vegan meal in Sydney... no doubt about it! The truffle is exquisite, just perfect! the ambience is great too with dimmed lights and soft jazz playing. Service is very attentive and your wine glass is always full... just the way I like it …

  • So50 (So50)

Yes, the food was a bit salty. Yes, the waiter served our order to the table next to us, yes the darkness hides the simple furnishing, yes it's incredibly expensive BUT it was a good experience. Food was really good, staff was kind and food presentation was excellent. A really good night.

  • Tiffany Huang

Very sweet and considerate serviceour whole company enjoy the meal very much. They provides customised menu for vegetarians, expectant mother or whoever has special needs, which is fantastic. Strongly recommended for group or event dinning. You will have a memorable night there. …

  • Jim

Some of the nicest warmest service in a lovely calm and top tier setting with some of the most beautifully presented food… the flavors beyond the AntiPasti were bland and very simple for such high end dining.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$160–180

  • Belinda Stewart

We recently held a small wedding in the private dining room (30 people) and the event couldn’t have been more perfect. Maggi and her team were fantastic and made sure the day went off without a hitch. The preparation, food, wine and staff were all fantastic and made our day very special.

  • Adrian Kwa

When you need a great Italian meal you cant miss Pendolino. This institution has been consistently serving great food for years. Always crowded, bookings are essential. highlights include their slow cooked ragu pasta and their roast pork belly. great wine list too.

  • Anton Loukine

We went to Pendolino to celebrate our special occasion. The food and service were remarkable, and the general manager Valentina went above and beyond to ensure our special day was indeed special and memorable!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Susan Hughes

What a wonderful night, all the staff looked after our needs - in fact made the birthday girls feel extra special by surprising them with a wonderful gesture of presenting them with a personalised gift each. The food was amazing. Can't wait to go again

  • wizlb

My wife and I went to Pendolino, for our 20th wedding anniversary, and the food was outstanding, the service was impeccable. There was one small mistake, but it was corrected before we left, and overall I rate our evening at 9 1/2 score out of 10…

  • Gabrielle Pimstone

4 course vego meal was beyond delicious. This place provides an attention to detail that makes you feel pampered. The food is spectacular, the wine was fabulous and the service 10/10.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

  • Wilfred Woo

My first time visit Pendilino. Staffs are very nice and helpful. We ordered 3 courses menu plus a pasta. We choose the pasta with mushroom which is out of my expectation, well cooked pasta with wonderful mushroom sauce, mush try.

  • Vero Tebbitt

Food is delicious, the best pasta by far. Price is high, quite high to be honest. At night, it's a fixed price for 2 or 3 courses. Service is outstanding, and the selection of olive oils and breads to taste is out of this world.

  • Steve Pratt

Fantastic food, warm and friendly service and an extensive wine list. One of the best meals I’ve ever had, I loved every course.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$120–140

  • Anna Linsdell

A very classy dining experience. We were very well looked after. The olive oils were delicious with the wide selection of breads. Compliments to the sommelier too, he was very helpful and knowledgeable.

  • Tracey Y

Delicious pastas and great professional but laid back service. On the exxy side and smallish portion size, but would gladly return. Solid 4.5 stars
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

  • Stu W

Staff were amazing, they made a birthday very special! The wine, food and caviar are all outstanding. Highly recommend this restaurant!!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

  • Vicky Chen

Good ambience, good food. My stomach might be a big weak for some of the olive oil my stomach hurts after. But I would still go back to eat because I love their selections of olive oil!

  • Mandeep Sodhi

Exquisite food, good service and nice ambience. Highly recommended.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

  • Chris Reid

Great experience, excellent service, fantastic modern Italian fine dining. Wish I'd known about this place years ago. Everything was perfect. Can't wait to go back

  • Hang Luo

I would definitely give 10 stars if I could. The seafood spaghetti was just fantastic, 100% my favorite pasta restaurant in Australia. Highly recommended!!

  • Eunice

Interesting dishes but service was mediocre, which should not be expected at a fine dining establishment.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

  • Drew Unsworth

Have not been for 10 years and was blown away on how good it is.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$200+

  • Christy Feng

Loved everything about it service is exceptional, food is amazing, people are so friendly and helpful! Definitely would come back for more !

  • J B

Enjoyed the 3 course meal and wines. The first two courses were especially good
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

  • David Gee

Stunning food and loved the different approaches to the classic cuisine
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

  • PATRICK LOPEZ

Great experience. Food, service and cocktails. Highly recommended.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Nina Gao

Exceptional food and service. Very attentive. Always a pleasure coming here for fine dining Italian! Highly recommend

  • bbg smitten

Been here multiple times , the food, the presentation and the service never cease to amaze me

  • williamsjoce

My favourite restaurant in Sydney. I love this place. We came here for our Wedding dinner.

  • Tony Williams

Price but excellent food & service. Great modern Italian.

  • Nick Hackett

Exceptional food, wine and service. Superb

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