Power to Popolo

You’ll need more than a GPS to discover this glassy gem. Command your inner super sleuth (don’t be duped by apartment block ‘No.50’). Follow the roar of conversation to the ‘Peoples’ restaurant twinkling behind the Toyota showroom.

Owners Flavio and Fabio sound like they should have their own episode of ‘Italian Underbelly – 41^st Parallel North’. Regaling in a gang of loving customers who have followed them from Rockpool Bar & Grill, Fratelli Paradiso and beyond…with good reason.

Choose your vantage point from the comfy banquettes, homely wooden chairs or sleek sit up bar. If you’re an avid ‘People Watcher’ you’re in for a treat as guests arrive and hugs are given freely.

Google Translate may come in handy as the Italian team get competitive and each talk up their regional dishes showcasing homelands of Basilicata, Sardinia and Campania. The passion is as intoxicating as the delicious woodfire aromas wafting from the kitchen and the menu is full of surprises. ‘Gamberoni’ king prawns arrive all charred and garlicky to the table in the pan; ‘Tortino’ a mini focaccia pie delivers pine nut and endive sass; ‘Fregola’ pebble pasta is sultry seafood offering. Pizza lovers will not be disappointed but it’s the skewered quails which will have you licking your fingers with delight.

As for the Vini, we suggest you start with a delicate Prosecco Feudi as Flavio & Fabio won’t have you leave without sharing Alba & Spanedda, a wine harvested by their familia and imported especially for you.

Prepared with care and offered with love, says it all for a restaurant with a big heart.