High ceilings, a big ol’ marble bar and a hell of a lot of good wine make for happy hearts (and stomachs) at Riley Street’s newest café and wine bar.

If you’re a fan of Newtown’s sweetheart Bloodwood, then you’ll love this new little wine den – coming to us courtesy of their award-winning wine guru Gabrielle Webster.

Perched next to Baccomatto Osteria, and part owned by the same crew, Riley Street Café & Wine is worth dropping off the main beat for.

Expect mostly biodynamic and organic wines from around the globe, as well as a few notable Aussie labels to keep the patriots happy. Insider tip: ask Gabrielle about her POR (Price on Request) beauties. She’s upfront saying she’s the only person that’ll proably find these (not necessarily super expensive or ‘cult’) wines extra special, but we’re not easily fooled. She’ll also join you for a meaningful conversation about the wine and then shout you a beer. Nice touch.

Now to the food: it’s to share, and it’s good. Start with white anchovies on crunchy bread with basil and olive oil, and a selection of cured meats and cheese. But the real magic happens in the house-made pasta: there’s only one dish, it changes every week, but it’s guaranteed to be memorable.

If it’s a daytime affair, go for the café experience and dose up on a Blacksmith Roasters coffee and a solid breakfast and lunch menu.

Look out Crown Street. Riley Street just upped the ante.

Riley Street Café & Wine
222 Riley Street, Surry Hills
Open daily 7am-late