Mercato e Cucina to open in Barangaroo

While strong speculation mounted that offshore food giant Eataly was headed to Barangaroo, part of the answer to the Italian food offering was right under our noses.

Gladesville's Mercato e Cucina is the latest signing at Barangaroo. Vanessa Martin, who built her credentials as head chef at Balmain's hatted il Piave, opened the sprawling Mercato late last year in Gladesville. When the new outlet swings open at Barangaroo South in early 2016, the 700-square-metre site will feature a panini bar, walk-in cellar, delicatessen and bakery. It'll also sell takeaway meals.

"We are really excited about introducing our store and unique concept to the CBD, a place where visitors will be able to escape to Italy seven days a week," Martin says.

Mercato e Cucina's neighbours at Barangaroo will include Gelato Messina and Bourke Street Bakery.