Italian Restaurants in the Waitematā and Gulf area of Auckland
Coco's Cantina Restaurant & Bar
Coco's Cantina is a fun and authentic Italian restaurant and bar on Karangahape Road, focusing on pizza and pasta. With a good selection of antipasto for snacking and sharing, Coco's welcomes both diners and those wanting a causal drink.
SPQR Cafe & Bar
Located on Ponsonby Road, SPQR is a modern Italian restaurant known for its thin-based pizzas, extensive wine list, and cocktails.
Gusto at the Grand
Gusto at the Grand is an appetising Italian and European restaurant, with passionate chefs dedicated to finding the right ingredients for simple yet delicious food with classic flavours.
Prego Restaurant
Prego is a classic Italian restaurant open 7 days from midday till late, serving delicious cuisine by friendly professionals. With fast, friendly service, Prego welcomes walk-ins.
Full list of Italian Restaurants
What people say
Italian cuisine has been popular in Auckland for decades, and the Waitematā and Gulf area is full of Italian restaurants serving traditional dishes with a modern twist. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start, but thanks to online reviews and comments, visitors and locals alike can make informed choices about where to dine.
One of the most highly recommended Italian restaurants in the area is Prego in Ponsonby. This restaurant has been a local favorite for many years, offering delicious pasta dishes, wood-fired pizza, and an extensive wine list. The atmosphere is relaxed, sophisticated and perfect for a romantic dinner out. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of food and service more than justifies it.
Another popular spot is Farina in the CBD. It has a cozy ambiance and serves authentic Neapolitan-style pizza made with fresh ingredients imported from Italy. Prices are reasonable for the high-quality food on offer. They also have outdoor seating which is perfect for summer evenings.
For those looking for a waterfront dining experience, it's hard to beat Sails Restaurant in Westhaven Marina. Although not exclusively Italian, Sails’ menu features a great selection of Italian-inspired dishes made with local ingredients. The views of the marina are fantastic and create a perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
In general, prices at Italian restaurants in Waitematā and Gulf tend to be on the higher side but offer great value for money. Locals tend to visit Prego or Farina while tourists enjoy Sails restaurant because of their location. Overall, there are plenty of options available when it comes to Italian dining in this area, so make sure to check out online reviews before stepping out!
Top 10 cuisines
The most popular cuisines in Waitematā and Gulf are:
Indian Italian Burger Asian Fusion Japanese Thai