There’s something very charming about Balla. Could it be the army of dark brooding Italian Chef’s working busily behind the pass? Or maybe it’s the sexy curved walls and glass encased dining room? Whatever it is, Stefano Manfredi has it. And the rest of Sydney want it.

Well, this October you can have it too as part of Crave Sydney International Food Festival when Balla comes to life with one-off events like Tessa Kiros’ (renowned international cookbook author) regional dinner showcasing the talents of Head Chef Gabriele Taddeucci in his interpretation of Tessa’s traditional Sicilian dishes like stuffed chicken neck with lentils; Sicilian style baked rigatoni; semolina gnocchi with burnt butter and sage; and gianduja icecream mattone with whipped cream.

Or nip in Tuesday to Friday for a two-course ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ ($38pp including a wine or beer) and choose from regular Balla favourites including slow braised calamari with spinach, chili and garlic; curly pappardelle pasta with snapper sauce; and traditional Zuccotto with chocolate, ricotta and mascarpone.

Are you Craving Balla this October?

Balla
Level G Harbourside, The Star, Pyrmont 2009
Crave Let’s Do Lunch (two courses plus a glass of wine or beer $38pp) Tuesday – Friday, from 12pm, throughout October