The Tratt

Bondi Trattoria has boasted 'institution' status since the late 1980's. While locals know it just as 'the Tratt', everyone seems to have had a different taste of its many identities throughout its time.

The restaurant's name alone partly sums up the theme. 'Trattoria,'  meaning an Italian restaurant, which serves simple food is what to expect when dining here, but in this case, take the word 'simple' as meaning pure, with quality. The menu retains Italian ingredients as the basis, without compromising too much for our confused Australian taste buds. The fresh taste of every morsel affirms authenticity - or at least as close to being in Rome as we can get, yet with a beach view.

Inside, framed, black and white shots of Italian scenery decorate the walls, with a large, almost retro bar featuring as the centrepiece of the restaurant. The décor oozes class without pretentiousness. It's an all round eating haunt for families, small groups, and couples, if a romantic dinner allows for noise. There are certainly some boisterous Italian vibrations going on in there on a busy night.

Experienced Tratt staff are very used to catering for special dietary needs. The manager can tell you off the tip of a hat what is naturally gluten-free on the menu or what can be altered. Recommendation - the cheesy risotto with zucchini, mushroom and truffle oil is out-of-this-world delicious.

Bondi Trattoria, 34 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach. (02)9365 4303. www.bonditrattoria.com.au