Pasta & Cuore is a finalist in the Metro Peugeot Restaurant of the Year 2019 awards for Best Wine and Best Neighbourhood Restaurant, and Stefania Ugolini is a finalist for Best Chef. To see a full rundown of all our winners, click here.
It’s easy to be seduced by the charm of this quaint neighbourhood bistro. Pasta & Cuore quietly and consistently rolls out the dough for Auckland’s best pasta behind its glass storefront window, later looking plump on display in the restaurant’s counter-cabinets as they lie in wait for chef Stefania Ugolini. There’s a neat balance of light and hearty pastas on their menu, some of which is dictated by season. We particularly enjoy the staple bowl of spaghetti gorgonzola with the pool of goodness waiting at the bottom: it’s a satisfying exercise plunging and winding long lengths into messy mouthfuls. The chatter of Italian, rustically hand-made menus with Ugolini’s story on the back and its extensive wine list – a journey through Italy – speak exactly to what this place is. So too do the classic desserts like the chocolate budino, which are done just the way nonna would have made it.
What it offers: À la carte / Shared-plate options / Good for vegetarians / Outdoor dining / Takes large groups / Good for kids
A favourite dish: Tiramisu
Hours: LunchTue-Sat, Dinner Tue-Sat (Last seating 8.30pm)
Bookings: Yes
Price: $
Chef: Stefania Ugolini
409 Mt Eden Rd
Ph 630-9130
pastaecuore.co.nz
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