Baduzzi is Metro Peugeot's Restaurant of the Year 2019's Best Service winner and runner-up of Best Smart Restaurant. To see a full rundown of all our winners, click here.
As you’d hope with a name that translates to “meatball” in Sicilian, the always-busy Baduzzi is the best Italian-American restaurant in Auckland. More than anything, Baduzzi is a fun place for a meal – with a date, with your friends or with your family. The whole place buzzes; there’s a lively hum of conversation and the music and the lighting are just right. Despite its pace, the service is calm, warm and prompt. The dining room – filled with marble, oak and leather – is luxe but comfortable. The wild deer meatballs, the lasagnetta with hapuka bolognese, the crayfish bisque and buffalo curd are all close to perfect. Even the wine list slots together with all the other elements, featuring plenty of unusual Italian varietals grouped by price.
What it offers: Shared-plate options / Set menu / Good for vegetarians / Outdoor dining / Takes large groups / Good for kids
A favourite dish: Linguine with littleneck clams and chilli
Awards:
Winner, Best Service
Runner-up, Best Smart Restaurant
Runner-up, Restaurateur of the Year: Michael Dearth
Hours: Lunch/dinner 7 days
Bookings: Yes, for lunch; limited evening bookings
Price: $$
Chef: Benjamin Bayly, executive chef
Waterfront
10-26 Jellicoe St
North Wharf
Ph 309-9339
baduzzi.co.nz
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