Photo credit: Jack Fenby
After many months of development, contemporary Italian restaurant Rita’s opened its doors in North Adelaide on the 12th of July. When asked about the opening, co-owner of Rita’s Maeve Marryat said “We were really excited to show people our food and our space.”
“North Adelaide, especially Melbourne Street, hasn’t had any new spots in a while,” says Maeve. “There’s some great places around here, but it just needs a bit of a revival.”
Rita’s has a very unique approach to cuisine. With the use of locally sourced, seasonal produce, and Asian inspired flavours, the restaurant shows Italian food under a brand new light. Head chef and co-owner of Rita’s, Darcy Dawes, has an extensive background in Italian cuisine. Having been an apprentice at Osteria Oggi before becoming the head chef at Stem, he understands how to prepare Italian cuisine beautifully.
Not only do Maeve and Darcy intend to use local produce, but they also intend to have a local-focused wine list, with wines from all over SA as well as some imported wines direct from Italy, to perfectly match the Italian menu.
“We’ll keep the menu nice and concise, but frequently rotating so we can use ingredients that are local and in-season,” says Darcy.
The interior of Rita’s has a very cozy feel. The space was designed by CTRL space, who managed to brilliantly capture the warmth that all of us are needing this winter. With wooden tables, soft lighting and rich colours covering every inch of the dining room, Rita’s feel very homely. Even the name Rita’s is comforting. “It’s short, sweet, and feels homely—like you’re going to eat at nonna Rita’s place,” says Maeve.
Rita’s
Where: 69-71 Melbourne Street
Open Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 5pm-10pm
More Info: Rita’s
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