We’ve narrowed down the top 10 Italian restaurants in Auckland because…there’s nothing more romantic than Italian food for date night! Whether it’s pizza, pasta, or anything in between, some restaurants in Auckland hit the spot every single time with their authentic Italian food and romantic atmosphere.
It can be hard to choose where to go when you’re craving a delicious plate of pasta or pizza to enjoy with your partner. So, we’ve done the hard work for you!
In no particular order, check out our top 10 picks for an Italian date night in Auckland below.
Non Solo Pizza
Parnell
The number one pick for Italian in Auckland lies in the heart of Parnell. From the minute you walk into Non Solo Pizza, you are transported to the cobblestone streets of Italy. With the bustling atmosphere of its Italian staff members – NSP know exactly how to make you feel at home. Their traditional food falls nothing short of five stars & their full reservations diary tells you just how sought after they are.
Cotto
K Road, Auckland CBD
For a place that feels like home but also transcends you into the middle of Italy – enjoy this industrial-chic eatery located on Aucklands K Road. Cotto’s cuisine exudes love from its handmade pasta to its inventive ‘dumplings,’ there’s never a dull moment when you walk through their doors. Wondering exactly why Cotto made it into our list of the top 10 Italian restaurants in Auckland? It’s friendly and laidback atmosphere make it perfect for any kind of date. It’s the perfect stop for a casual weekday date night or an exciting weekend double date.
Baduzzi
Wynyard Quarter
The Sicilian word for ‘meatballs,’ Baduzzi is the award-winning, Italian restaurant sitting in the middle of Downtown Aucklands, Wynyard Quarter. Serving up fine Italian food and wine, Baduzzi specialises in all things meatballs. Whether you think you have mastered your recipe at home or not, we can promise you these will blow your mind. Both classy and sophisticated, Baduzzi feels like an Italian escape, just seconds from the city centre. You can see why Baduzzi has made it to the top 10 Italian restaurants in Auckland.
Prego
Ponsonby
They call Prego an institution for a reason! This longtime eatery serves up the best Italian meals in a laid-back yet lively atmosphere. After holding its ground as one of Auckland’s infamous Italian spots for 36 years, no two visits ever feel the same. Yet, you always feel at home! Whether you’re keen for a wine with lunch or an easy night out in the middle of Ponsonby, Prego is it. P.S. Their Butternut Gnocchi & Black Truffle Arancini will always satisfy your tastebuds.
Pici
St Kevins Arcade
Arguably one of Auckland’s best kept secrets, Pici is a fresh pasta and wine restaurant based in St Kevins Arcade. With a limited menu of less than 10 dishes, Pici have nailed the art of less is more. Their dishes are made from the freshest ingredients daily. Did we mention that all their pasta is handmade? The humble, yet delicious menu is designed to take the indecisive nature out of your date night, and with their wine selection matching perfectly, you’ll feel both inspired and relaxed when popping in for an Italian date night.
Andiamo
Ponsonby
In the wise words of the creators themselves, Andiamo is ‘the perfect neighbourhood spot!’ Showcasing classic Italian ingredients, and pairing them with New Zealand’s freshest produce, Andiamo spans over three decades of Italian wisdom in their menu. Established and run in the bustling centre of Herne Bay, their classy and elegant eatery is sought after daily by both the locals and those who travel to the destination spot. Taste artisan cheeses, salumi, housemade pastas and more to experience the true flavours of Andiamo.
Amano
Britomart Square
Situated in downtowns, Britomart Square lies a true Aucklanders’ favourite. Open for an Almond Croissant at 7am through to a late night Bolognese at 9pm, Amano is the all day eatery celebrating the flavours of Italy and beyond. As one of the city’s most prominent restaurants, Amano shares their passion for food through a seasonal menu, made with the utmost of pride. The stunning atmosphere invites you to feel relaxed and at home, any time of the day.
Lilian
Grey Lynn
Quite possibly the newest kid on the block when it comes to our top 10 Italian restaurants in Auckland, this Osteria & Wine bar falls nothing short of spectacular. Lilian is a simple, elegant eatery serving up traditional, mouth wateringly good meals. Known for their Heirloom Tomato Salad & Puff Bread, be prepared to go on a journey with your food and truly feel the humble flavours of Italy.
Ada
Grey Lynn
Hidden away in The Convent Hotel lives stunning, new italian eatery Ada. The boutique restaurant hosts a variety of authentic Italian dishes designed for sharing. Whether you’re there to try the Pizza Fritti or the mouth watering Gnocchi, each dish is curated to perfection by head chef, Hayden Phiskie.
Pasta & Cuore
Mt Eden
Handmade & heartmade. Meet the fresh authentic eatery, full of flavour and family in the middle of Mt Eden. Pasta & Cuore is the traditional Italian bistro specialising in all things pasta. Whether you are eating in or want to take home one of their freshly ready made pasta dishes, Pasta & Cuore have a meal for everyone with their extensive gourmet menu.
There you have it! A definitive guide to the top 10 restaurants for Italian food in Auckland. Now that you know the top spots, it’s time to book in your next date night at one of these Italian restaurants on Cupla now.
Looking for more ideas for date night in Auckland? Check out 14 Of The Best Asian Fusion Spots For Date Night In Auckland.
This curated hints list was brought to you by the team at Cupla – The Ultimate Date Night App For Couples.
For more date night tips & the latest on what’s happening in Auckland – follow Cupla on Instagram at @cupla.auckland
