. Marinara .
A friend of mine described Marinara in Paddington as one of her best italian-restaurant experiences. This place has only been open for a few months – it doesn’t even have a website or Facebook page – but already it’s a hit with Brisbane and its reputation has been spreading like wild fire (the beauty of the word of mouth).
Step out of the street and right onto the doorstep of this little Tuscan home. Terracotta walls, red-and-white checked table cloths, green vines and white-washed statues all add to its authentic feel. Marinara is warm, welcoming and home-y with footpath seating as well as indoor tables tucked away in various, romantic corners. Dinner is intimate, with lowered lighting in a cosy, close setting. Have a seat at a spare table if you’re lucky, otherwise the waiter may kindly make one up for you.
The dinner menu comes out on a big board with your obvious pastas, risottos and pizzas on offer. Order the bruschetta pizza to start, followed by the spicy Don Carlo ($26.50) for a bit of a kick, or the spinach and ricotta ravioli ($22.50) to avoid rolling home. Want something different? Ask the friendly waiters what’s on special. The food has that traditional, home-cooked feel and every mouthful is moreish. Make sure you leave some room for dessert (or at least share). With a fridge full of options, the waiters can choose the best – have the chocolate cake or the lemon cheesecake and end your meal with a tea and some gusto.
The service is authentic, personable, attentive and fun. The staff are warm, funny, and charismatic – like comrades or brothers, adding to the overall family-feel of this restaurant. On a busy night, the food may take a little while however, the waiters make up for that by coming over for a chat (flirt?) and a laugh so the wait is worthwhile. Don’t be surprised should the head chef himself make an appearance to check on you personally. It’s a close team bordering on family with everyone’s personality playing a part in this home-y restaurant.
Tip: Make a reservation for dinner as it’s guaranteed to be packed!
The Specifics
My food will cost: Starters around $10 / mains $22.50 – $29.50 / dessert around $10
My beverages will cost: $10 for corkage as they are still obtaining their liquor license, $4.50 tea
Good for: hearty gatherings, home-felt Italian food
Useful Stuff
w: n/a
p: +61 7 3367 8885
a: 34 Latrobe Tce, Paddington
ot: mon-sun 0600-2200
open for coffees 0600 / breakfast begins at 0700 / kitchen closes around 2100-2130
how do i get here?: http://jp.translink.com.au/
Ample street parking is available.
Date of Visit: Thursday 07/06/2012
Written: Sunday 17/06/2012
Revisited: Wednesday 27/06/2012
This place is another branch of the longstanding Italian restaurant at Sanctuary Cove
Oh wow! Thanks for that info I had no idea! Have you been there?
Yes, my husbands parents live in Sanctuary Cove so we’ve eaten at most of the restaurants there… it was quite a while ago though (preblog days – a couple of years ago)… will have to try the one at Paddington.