Moore Road, Freshwater NSW
There’s no such thing as ‘Italian cuisine’; rather, there is the cuisine of the 20 different regions that came together less than 200 years ago to form what we now know as Italy. Of course, bordering regions have a lot in common … but as an island, some eight hours boat journey from mainland Italy, Sardinia has been more isolated than most and has evolved a very distinctive cuisine.
Given its strategic location in the middle of the Mediterranean, its cuisine has also been influenced by many invading forces over the millennia. Giovanni Pilu is one of the few chefs in Australia focusing on Sardinian cuisine. He has maintained a 2-hat rating in the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide and has been acknowledged for his strong focus on Sardinian produce, including an award for his wine list, which has a strong Sardinian focus.
Giovanni’s philosophy lies at the heart of the restaurant; “Food and the hospitality associated with sharing it is integral to the Sardinian way of life”. It has also become a key element to the way of life of Sydneysiders. Giovanni and the kitchen team take great care in sourcing the best of local and seasonal Australian ingredients. The menu is inspired by classic Sardinian fare, re-interpreted using modern techniques whilst remaining true to traditional and regionality.
From the moment you set foot inside Pilu at Freshwater, Giovanni, Marilyn, and their team ensure that your experience is memorable. Giovanni’s passion for Sardinian and regional Italian food is matched by the award-winning service delivered by Pilu’s front-of-house staff, renowned across the industry for their warmth, knowledge, and experience.
Recreate Giovanni Pilu's signature recipe -
SA MERCA - Grilled Barramundi with coastal greens & smoked ham broth
on P.166 in the 2024 edition of Flavours of Australia.
Flavours of Australia
- 92 signature recipes from top Aussie Chefs
- 200 stories about the best chefs and places to eat and drink around Australia
Read the stories of some of Australia's most decorated chefs & rediscover some of our oldest family institutions. Recreate your favourite meals at home & relive your most memorable food experiences with signature recipes from our most coveted restaurants & identities.