Become a Best partner Swap to AU

Best Eats

Top 10 Italian Restaurants Auckland

09/03/2024

Delizioso Discoveries: Auckland's Top 10 Italian Restaurants That Will Transport You to Italy

Embark on a culinary adventure through Auckland's vibrant Italian dining scene. From handcrafted pasta to wood-fired pizzas, these eateries offer an authentic experience that will transport you directly to Italy… without the expensive airfare. Join Best Restaurants as we do the hard work for you, uncovering the city's go-to Italian restaurants.

  1. Cotto Restaurant

    Auckland CBD, Auckland, North Island

    Hailed among Auckland's finest Italian restaurants, Cotto transports guests directly to Italy. Large groups are treated to shared set menus, echoing the tradition of Italian feasts. Their menu showcases freshly crafted pasta, Italian-style dumplings, and flavourful ragu and meat dishes. Kick off the evening with a happy hour Limoncello spritz or Negroni, followed by a selection from their New Zealand and Italian wine list. Signature dishes like Focaccia with whipped ricotta and Tortelli with eggplant parmigiana exemplify Cotto's Italian roots, while desserts like Tiramisu semifreddo provide a sweet finale.

    View More
  2. Baduzzi

    Auckland CBD, Auckland, North Island

    At Baduzzi, handcrafted pasta takes centre stage. Awarded Metro Peugeot’s Restaurant of the Year 2019, Baduzzi proudly embodies its Italian roots. Signature dishes like Mamma D’s “East Coast” meatballs, Tagliatelle "alle vongole”, comforting Buttered maltagliati, and the classic Chicken saltimbocca all make this place a must-visit if you’re in the mood for authentic Italian. To top it all off, it is easy to finish your meal with a delightful dessert when you have enticing options like a rich Ricotta cannoli or a timeless Tiramisu.

    View More
  3. Prego Restaurant

    Ponsonby, Auckland, North Island

    Since 1986, Prego has been a hub for classic Italian cuisine and top-notch service. With a bustling yet friendly atmosphere, the restaurant boasts a menu featuring favourites like arancini, burrata and tartare, or opt for pasta classics like Linguine alla Marinara or Risotto alla Barbabietole. Dessert options include classics like Italian tartufo and tiramisu. Pair your meal with selections from their extensive wine list showcasing both New Zealand and Italian wines.

    View More
  4. Ada Restaurant

    Grey Lynn, Auckland, North Island

    Ada Restaurant, guided by renowned Chef Ben Bayly, presents a sophisticated dining experience in Auckland that infuses Italian influences with locally sourced New Zealand ingredients. Complemented by a diverse international wine list, their concise and thoughtfully crafted menu boasts nods to the Italian cuisine with Te Mataku oysters, pork raviolo, beef short ribs, and succulent port belly.

    View More
  5. Lilian

    Grey Lynn, Auckland, North Island

    Lilian offers an authentic Italian dining experience with a modern European twist, complemented by a commitment to quality ingredients. Relax with a glass of wine or refreshing cocktail as you enjoy their delectable sharing menu of wood-fired pizzas and crowd-pleasers like succulent lamb ribs. Must-haves from their delicious menu highlights include their wood-fired Italian flatbread, burrata, and crispy courgette flowers.

    View More
  6. Bivacco

    Auckland CBD, Auckland, North Island

    Sit down with a refreshing cocktail as Bivacco gives you a taste of the Amalfi Coast right in Auckland's Viaduct. The menu, featuring locally sourced ingredients, offers unpretentious and traditional dishes, including homemade pasta and seafood favourites. Enjoy dishes like Heirloom tomato salad and Tuna crudo, as well as wood-fired whole fish and beautifully crafted pizzas and homemade pastas. Bivacco is the perfect spot to enjoy quality, authentic and a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of Italy.

    View More
  7. Pici Pasta

    Auckland CBD, Auckland, North Island

    Pici Pasta transports diners to Italy with its small, yet carefully curated menu that boasts delicious classics like house-made pastas, focaccia, rigatoni, and spaghettini. Pair your meal with your drink of choice from their diverse cocktail and an organic-focused wine list, and finish your visit on a sweet note with an indulgent dark chocolate semifreddo or creamy cheesecake.

    View More
  8. Pasta & Cuore

    Mount Eden, Auckland, North Island

    Renowned for their artisanal fresh pasta made using traditional methods, Pasta & Cuore is an award-winning restaurant that an authentic Italian dining experience. Observe the skilled craftsmanship of pasta-making at the shopfront tables while enjoying a leisurely glass of wine. Pasta & Cuore’s seasonal menu features locally sourced organic produce and free-range meat and eggs. With pasta so irresistible that one serving is never enough, Pasta & Cuore epitomises the essence of Italian dining—simple, handmade, and undeniably delicious.

    View More
  9. Coco's Cantina

    Auckland CBD, Auckland, North Island

    Coco's Cantina is a go-to spot for an Italian restaurant with that warm homey feel. As a top-rated Italian eatery, their menu features seasonal, rustic dishes made from quality, locally sourced ingredients. A few of their standout offerings include arancini, burrata, wood-grilled fish, pizzas, and pasta… but keep in mind that they also have vegan options available to satisfy everybody’s Italian cravings. If you needed another reason to visit, Coco’s Cantina offers Happy Hour (Tuesday to Saturday, 4-6pm) for discounted pizza and combo specials.

    View More
  10. Bossi

    Auckland CBD, Auckland, North Island

    Bossi brings an authentic taste of Italy to New Zealand, in a elegant and luxurious, yet inviting setting. With Deli di Bossi located right next door offering a curated selection of fine grocery items, it is guaranteed that at Bossi restaurant, you will experience the best of the best when it comes to quality ingredients. With an array of mouthwatering traditional dishes like fresh sourdough bruschetta, handmade pasta, and their signature slow cooked Bossi Lasagne, the only challenge you will encounter is deciding what to dig into first!

    View More

Subscribe to stay updated on relevant restaurant news near you.

Featured Locations