Festa Italiana — Howard Smith Wharves

Ciao ragazzi!

Howard Smith Wharves is thrilled to announce FESTA ITALIANA returns for its second year. Experience Italy’s rich culture, savour classic aperitivos and indulge in delicious cuisine, all curated in collaboration with renowned guest chef and cult culinary figure Orazio D’Elia of ‘Da Orazio’.

Located on the Main Lawn, FESTA ITALIANA is a sensory celebration of all things Italian held across two weekends.

Gather your amici and famiglia for Festa Italiana at HSW and experience the best of Italian culture and cuisine!

WEEKEND 1 / Thursday 23rd May– Sunday 26th May
WEEKEND 2 / Thursday 30th May – Sunday 2nd June

OPENING HOURS
THURSDAY/ 4pm – late
FRIDAY/ 4pm- late
SATURDAY/ 12pm-late
SUNDAY/ 12pm-late

Experience

FOOD

Take a stroll through the Italian food market and embark on a culinary journey with Chef Orazio serving up his famous ‘Vodka Rigatoni’ made with a creamy tomato and vodka sauce topped with parmesan cheese. Leave room for Orazio’s ‘Focaccia con Porchetta’ another fan favourite – served fresh from the rotisserie with chilli marinated grilled eggplant.

In addition to Orazio’s famous dishes, FESTA ITALIANA will offer an array of authentic Italian delights, including freshly made pasta from the live pasta station with two new dishes on offer, local Casa Motta Buffalo Mozzarella, woodfired bread, fritto misto and tantalizing Italian beverages, including the classic aperitivo, Aperol Spritz.

Leave room for sweets with classic Italian desserts on offer from Orazio’s traditional bakery.

GUEST CHEF

Born and raised in Naples, Chef Orazio returns to Howard Smith Wharves in another exciting collaboration for Festa Italiana. His approach to cooking is simple food, done well: an Italian philosophy he has reimagined with his signature Orazio touch.

Chef Orazio has helmed esteemed establishments including the role of Head Chef at Sydney’s iconic dining institution, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, alongside Maurice Terzini. The duo subsequently opened Da Orazio Pizza + Porchetta in Bondi Beach, a beloved destination for food enthusiasts and locals alike, cementing Chef Orazio’s reputation as a culinary luminary.

His exceptional drive to deliver quality recipes from his homeland, impeccable attention to detail and irrepressible passion is evident in all his food projects: from private, Italian-inspired catering to his renowned restaurants in Sydney, Da Orazio and former restaurant Matteo.

DRINKS

Enjoy a classic aperitivo or drop of Italian vino – the drink selection has been curated to transport you to the famous Italian wine regions from Tuscany to Campania and holiday destinations along the coastline. Find your spot on the lawn and sip on a Spritz while listening to live music and soaking up the sunshine.

LIVE MUSIC

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere with live music that will transport you to the streets of Naples and beyond.

Visit our Spotify playlist – listen here.

FESTA ITALIANA Q&A

Is the event free to attend?

Yes! The event is free to attend with delicious food and refreshing beverages available for purchase.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, bring your pooch and relax in good company on the Main Lawn. Please keep in mind, we are a bustling precinct so bring your pet only if they’ll feel comfortable.

Is the event family friendly?

Yes, Festa Italiana is family friendly.

How do I get to Festa Italiana?

Festa Italiana will be held on the Main Lawn at the New Farm end of the precinct.

You can visit our location page to plan your journey.

Location

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