La Cucina

Ph: (07) 4099 6100; Wharf St cnr Macrossan St, PORT DOUGLAS 4877

Italian Japanese, $$$, ** for Ambience
Open Breakfast Sun 8.30-11am; lunch daily noon-3pm, dinner daily 6-9.30pm; Licensed, BYO; AE, BC, DC, MC, V, Seats inside 70, Outside seats 60, Private room

Mietta's Review
Tony and Di Sassi have left the restaurant which continues with a modified name under the direction of his previous partners with ex-employee, Andrew Gray, as chef. The staff are good, the decor pretty impeccable and with the addition of a Sushi Bar, it covers the scene. Expect quality in all senses. Mains are around $30, but the theatre of food is what you're paying for, and position. Across from the water, quality furniture and all that goes with it.

Other published opinions

Courier-Mail Goodlife Restaurant Guide 2006 "This is an open-air affair at the tip of Port Douglas' main street and overlooking the Dickson Inlet and beyond - a perfect match for the area's ambience."

Courier-Mail Goodlife Restaurant Guide 05 ** "What Italian-bom chef Tony Sassi doesn't know about creating stunningly simple Italian food isn't worth knowing. With wife Di running the restaurant, the successful duo has been providing North Queensland diners with a level of Italian cuisine of the highest standards for more than two decades."

Gourmet Traveller Australian Restaurant Guide 2005 * "For decades, the Sassi name has been synonymous with this region's best eating and drinking. It's all about smart, traditional Italian dishes adapted to suit the climate and served with simplicity and great flair."

Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide Australia 2004, 1 Black Star, Good vegetarian options,'sparkles with Italian style.The very approachable menu reflects the seasons and uses the best of local produce...the restaurant has expanded to include a sushi bar...Service is friendly and professional.'