Osteria Papazzo, Caffe' Cucina & Vino — Restaurant in Newcastle-Maitland

We had high expectations for this restaurant, fueled by its buzz and some positive reviews. However, our experience was deeply disappointing, and we cannot recommend this establishment.

Upon our arrival for a 6:45pm reservation, we were surprised to learn that table service was unavailable and that we had to order at the counter. To our dismay, several dishes, including the fresh pasta and zucchini flowers, were out of stock. The wine list also promised selections that were not available.

Our choice of Pasta Pomodoro came with an unexpected $4 surcharge for a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. After the entrees, we were informed of a 20-minute delay for our mains. The Wagyu Ragu pasta, served with Ditalini - a puzzling choice for an Italian dish - was our first main. When our Pasta Al Pomodoro arrived, it was also with Ditalini instead of the Bucatini advertised. Upon inquiry, we were told Bucatini was unavailable, though this was not mentioned at the time of ordering. After some discussion, we were told Bucatini could be made available after another 10-minute wait, suggesting a lack of preparation.

The pasta, when it finally arrived, was far from the slow-cooked tomato and basil sauce promised on the menu. The sauce's acidity bore an uncomfortable resemblance to a store-bought jar, a stark contrast to the authentic Italian cuisine we expected based on our heritage and visits to Italy.

To cap off the evening, we were charged a 10% surcharge for dining on a Friday night - a practice we've never encountered in any other restaurant. We hope this surcharge was passed on to the waitstaff, who likely dealt with numerous complaints that evening.

Regrettably, we will not be returning to this restaurant. For those seeking genuine Italian cuisine, we advise...

From our recent experience in Italy we quickly learned that the best Italian food is not to be found in the main thoroughfares but away in the small, quiet backstreets. We also learnt that such restaurants have limited seating and almost always are a family affair. So it is in Newcastle at the end of a long street, away from the hustle and bustle of the city we found this small, family run Italian restaurant. There are a couple of tables outside and a very small number of tables inside. She is from Napoli and prepares all of the dishes with a commitment to sourcing the very best of local and regional foods. She tends to the restaurant floor while her husband finishes the prepared food. The food itself is elegant simplicity, such as the slow cooked minestrone which was to die for. Sensible sized portions allow diners to eat more than 2 dishes if they wish, because the menu is certainly very desirable. We were so thrilled with the food and appreciated the care that had gone into preparing each meal. Truly a little gem in a city of mass Italian restaurants. Watch out for their special nights. We...

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