Attimi Paddington: Chef Dario Manca Redefines Italian Dining

By
Tahlia Leathart |
2nd October 2025

Directly translated as “moments” in Italian, Attimi is a fitting name for the Paddington restaurant where chef and owner Dario Manca invites diners to savour the present. But beyond celebrating the here and now, his ambition runs deeper: to reshape the way Australians view Italian cuisine.

“Italy is so much more than pizza and pasta,” Dario says. “Every region has unique traditions, and by blending those with modern techniques, we can tell a much broader story.” At Attimi, that story unfolds as a Michelin-inspired dining experience where creativity meets time-honoured recipes.

The restaurant is the realisation of Dario’s lifelong dream. After years of working under other restaurateurs, he reached a career crossroads in 2024 and seized the opportunity to bring his vision to life. Guests are now treated to thoughtfully curated menus of eight or twelve courses, each dish designed as a moment to remember, paired with exceptional wines and warm European hospitality.

Dario’s culinary philosophy is rooted in contemporary Italian: bold flavours, generous seasoning, and intriguing textures, all layered over traditional foundations. It’s food designed to surprise, challenging expectations of what ingredients can pair well and transforming old dishes into new favourites.

His personal favourite dish? The Ducketta. “It was born from a desire to use every part of an ingredient, which is very in keeping with Italian culture,” he explains. The preparation takes days, but the result is an ingenious, flavour-packed plate that honours Rome’s culinary traditions while showcasing Australia’s finest poultry.

As Attimi looks ahead to extended hours for spring and summer, Dario is most excited about sharing more of these moments with guests. “I want people to feel present, delighted, and inspired by food in ways they might not have expected,” he says. “That’s what dining at Attimi is all about — living in the moment.”

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