Inside Bar Ricci, Main Beach’s refined new Italian dining room
Towards the latter half of 2025, Main Beach said farewell to one of its longest-running dining institutions, Shuck Restaurant. After 23 years on the strip, its closure marked the end of an era for many locals who had made it part of their weekly routine. One of those regulars was Carlo DeLuise. When Shuck’s owners Scott and Anna Budgen decided it was time to step away, he recognised the opportunity immediately. From that moment, Bar Ricci began to take shape.
At long last, Bar Ricci has now opened on the prized corner site, signalling a new chapter for Tedder Avenue. Grounded in Italian dining culture, the name draws inspiration from ricci di mare (sea urchins) and the Italian tradition of the bar as a daily meeting place. In Italy, bars are where mornings begin with quick coffees at the counter, afternoons stretch out and evenings unfold without agenda. That easy sense of rhythm shapes the experience here.
From the street, Bar Ricci presents as calm and composed. Inside, the venue is organised around three distinct spaces – the bar, the alfresco area and the crisp, linen-set dining room. Warm textures, Mediterranean references and thoughtful details such as monogrammed crockery set the tone, while generous spacing creates a sense of comfort and ease. It’s a restaurant designed for people who like to settle in.
The menu is built for sharing and exploring, with dishes arriving at a pace that suits long lunches, second bottles and dinners that stretch comfortably into the night.
Seafood features prominently, reflecting both the restaurant’s coastal setting and its Italian roots. Freshly shucked oysters, tuna crudo, preserved mussels and scallops sit alongside buttery burrata, anchovies and crisp fritti, creating an opening act that invites sharing and a second drink. It’s food designed to be enjoyed with good company at its core.
Pasta is made in-house and treated with restraint and respect. Dishes such as ricotta ravioli, spaghetti di mare and tagliatelle with duck ragu favour clarity over excess, allowing quality ingredients and careful technique to take centre stage.
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As the menu progresses, charcoal-grilled steaks, whole fish and seasonal mains add depth and substance, offering diners the option to turn a casual visit into a long, layered meal. Desserts and digestifs round things out thoughtfully, with the tiramisu emerging as a consistent favourite.
The drinks list is substantial however is well sectioned to prevent overwhelm. Italian producers form the backbone, supported by well-chosen local and international bottles, giving diners plenty of room to explore. Whether ordering a single glass or settling in with a bottle, the selection is considered and approachable with some truly indulgent inclusions for extra-special celebrations.
Cocktails lean towards clean flavours and classic structure, executed with precision. Non-alcoholic options receive the same level of care, ensuring everyone at the table feels included.
For diners who value thoughtful cooking, generous hospitality and the freedom to linger, Bar Ricci has quickly established itself as one of Main Beach’s most in-demand tables.
Head to The Directory for opening times.