Hungry Wolf's Terrigal

For over three decades, Hungry Wolf's in Terrigal has been the neighbourhood’s Italian heartbeat.

Founded by Dom and Pina and now in the care of hospitality aficionados Lynn Fernandes, Ainslee Fernandes and Griffin Avis-Foster, it continues a family-first philosophy: fresh, scrumptious and hearty is only the beginning, and genuine warmth does the rest. Guests are welcomed as famiglia, and the spirit of amore sets the tone.

There's nothing like the comfort of classic Italian food: garlicky starts and cicchetti to share, from tomato-bright bruschetta to golden arancini stuffed with cheese and mushroom. Risotti then swings with creamy chicken and bacon or truffle with parmesan. For a hearty bite, try the chicken saltimbocca and beef lasagna.

Pizzas arrive bubbling topped with mozzarella and familiar toppings like sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoni, garlic and prawns. Meanwhile, comforting bowls of pasta from amatriciana to a lively arrabiatta bring a savoury depth and a flick of heat. To finish, tiramisu and cannoli nod to nonna, with a spritz or mojito to toast the night.

It is an easygoing, joy-forward room where cheekiness is part of the charm, service is warm, and long lunches tumble into happy evenings. Whether corralling the kids or toasting to date night, diners will find a table that feels like home.