There's nothing negative to say about Oatley, a tranquil suburban village near Sydney’s southern part known for its well-kept gardens, peaceful pedestrian activity, and shaded commercial lanes. However, it comes as a shock to stumble upon Vinny’s Bread & Wine nestled within this serene setting.
Offering eight varieties of focaccia sandwiches during the day, this spot operates as a café that morphs into a bustling local bar towards the weekend. As evening approaches, instead of sandwiches, patrons enjoy charcuterie sharing platters; live tunes fill the air, and guests savour wines and cocktails starting from late afternoon onwards.
Drop by during lunchtime, and you'll sense the excitement lingering as locals eagerly queue up for those Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches. Among them, "Number One" stands out—golden focaccia brimming with succulent, golf-ball-sized meatballs, fragrant tomato sauce, arugula, homemade basil pesto, and shaved Parmesan. This generously stuffed sandwich is custom-made just for you and reaches new heights when drizzled with fiery chili sauce, priced at an additional $2.
"Four" – a spicy salami pizza featuring 𝄒nduja spread, sun-dried tomatoes, and arugula – stands out due to the generous portion of high-quality cured meats, the zesty kick from the 𝄒nduja, and how its deep-hued oil seeps into the dough, giving the crust an attractive pinkish and translucent look. Meanwhile, a tradesperson awaiting his "Seven" (breaded chicken cutlet) informs a team member that they will return later at 4 pm for the bar service once they’ve cleaned dried cement off their limbs.
The highlight of the menu is the "Number Six" salad sandwich, which features pickled carrots, a thick slice of grilled mushrooms, succulent red bell peppers, creamy macadamia spread, and sprouts. It offers a satisfying crunch along with freshness and healthiness. Paired with this dish are sips from their homemade strawberry and watermelon punch, known for being refreshing without being overly sugary. To complete your meal, enjoy a robust tiramisu iced latte accompanied by a ladyfinger cookie.
Opened in September of last year, Vinny’s is managed by lifelong buddies Simon Nardo and siblings Louis and Jackson Sobb. They also oversee Respite, a five-year-old establishment located closeby in Lugarno. The culinary mastermind behind both spots is head chef and baker Samuel Jerry, collaborating closely with the group on their focaccia offerings and bar nibbles. Their beverage selection ranges widely, featuring an array of cocktails alongside a consistently good house red available by the pitcher, complemented by selections from Italy and France.
In a perfectly harmonious partnership, Vinny’s bar offerings (such as cheese, meats, dips, and olives) align seamlessly with those of the adjacent pizzeria. Tutto Vero turning on its oven. So from Thursday through Sunday, you can enjoy your focaccia and fava bean dip followed by a freshly baked margherita straight from the wood-fired stove.
Tutto’s "Pachi" pizza — featuring a stuffed crust with ricotta, spirals of mortadella, fior di latte, pistachio crumbs, and lemon zest — is nothing short of remarkable. Similarly impressive is the San Marzano pie topped with salami, 'nduja, honey, fresh ricotta, and garlic oil. At Vinny’s, pizzas like these might arrive at your table as live music begins during an afternoon performance on Sundays.
The Good Food reviews are conducted anonymously and compensated separately. Restaurants cannot purchase a review or secure inclusion in the guide. Good Food Guide.
