The Best Italian Restaurants in Wellington

Ombra, nestled in Te Aro, Wellington, exudes charm. This Italian gem on 199 Cuba Street offers a taste of Venice with its rustic interior and house-made delights. From in-house crafted bread to delectable gnocchi, Indulge in Venetian-inspired cuisine like baccalà mantecato (salt cod mousse), polpetti (meatballs), and tiramisu. The warm, whitewashed ambiance, whether for a romantic evening or celebratory gathering, makes Ombra the go-to spot. Committed to creating memorable experiences, Ombra captures the essence of informal Italian dining in the heart of Wellington.

Photography: Courtesy of Ombra

Napoli is a Wellington mainstay doing Italian with heart and charm. Located at Courtenay Place, the kitchen keeps it real with house‑made pastas, wood‑fired pizzas and classic antipasti that nail balance and flavour. Think rich ragu, bright tomato, salty prosciutto and cheeses that pull like they should. The wine list highlights Italian with an easygoing vibe, the service feels familiar, and the ambiance is lively without trying too hard - perfect for nights when simple, delicious food and good company are the priority.

Nestled in a cosy corner, Cicio Cacio Osteria offers an authentic journey through Italy's regional cuisine. Each month, the menu transforms to highlight a different Italian city, ensuring a dynamic dining experience. Handcrafted with care, from fresh bread to delicate pasta, every dish resonates with traditional flavours and techniques. The osteria ambiance fosters a familial warmth, inviting guests to linger over antipasti, robust pasta, and savoury meat and fish dishes. Cicio Cacio Osteria's dedication to authenticity shines through in its meticulous research and revival of forgotten Italian recipes, creating a memorable dining experience reminiscent of an Italian family gathering.

Photography: Courtesy of Cicio Cacio Osteria

Fratelli invites you into a realm of fresh Italian delights since 2009. With a dedication to authenticity, this restaurant excels in woodfired pizzas like quattro formaggi and napolitana, alongside house made pasta and risotto featuring pork shoulder ragu. Impressively, most dishes can be tailored vegan or gluten-free. Starters and mains reflect classic Italian flavours, while a diverse dessert selection includes cassata. Enhance your meal with selections from a comprehensive Italian wine list. Fratelli ensures a true taste of Italy in every bite, making it a must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine in its purest form.

Photography: Courtesy of Fratelli

Located in the vibrant heart of Cuba Street, Liberty Restaurant offers unfussy, yet flavourful dishes meant for sharing. Embracing the best seasonal ingredients from Aotearoa New Zealand and inspired by global flavours, Liberty celebrates cuisine that defies categorisation. Its contemporary urban atmosphere sets the stage for an exciting culinary journey, offering an extensive menu spanning Mediterranean, Asian, New Zealand, Seafood, and international cuisines. Committed to using only the finest produce, Liberty ensures each dish bursts with unique and delicious flavours.

Photography: Courtesy of Liberty

MariLuca Ristoro brings refined Italian cooking to Mulgrave Street with a Mediterranean‑rich menu and relaxed, elegant setting. The plates lean seasonal and thoughtful; silky pastas, ocean‑fresh seafood and dishes built on local produce with nods to old world Italia. There’s an emphasis on texture and depth: slow braises, bright herbs and sauces that feel both classic and contemporary. Soft lighting and a wine list that loves Italian drops make it a great pick for date nights and long dinners with friends.

Nicolini’s is a Wellington Italian institution that’s been doing favourites the right way for decades. Its Wellington café and deli energy blends casual charm with well‑executed classics. From wood‑fired pizza bases, creamy pastas and gelato, all items on the menu land exactly as they should. Big flavours and approachable wines make it easy to settle in, whether you’re grabbing lunch before a show or lingering over dinner. It’s Italian comfort with a local kind of ease.

1154 brings big wine energy and bold sharing plates to Wellington’s dining scene. The menu is rooted in European cooking with seasonal, locally driven twists - think chargrilled meats, punchy pastas and rich, sauce‑forward dishes meant for passing around the table. The environment is convivial and unpretentious, with an extensive wine list that walks you through natural, old‑world and local labels. Whether it’s a date night or dinner with friends, 1154 feels like a lively, flavour‑packed evening that can live on repeat.

Nestled in Wellington, Loretta offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience with a focus on thoughtfully sourced Mediterranean cuisine. Our wood fire oven creates comforting dishes that celebrate the richness of New Zealand produce. Whether it's brunch, dinner, or dessert, Loretta invites you to savour creative cocktails and a selection of New Zealand's finest beer and wine. Embrace community and hospitality in a relaxed setting perfect for social gatherings and memorable dining moments.

Photography: Courtesy of Loretta

Astoria is Wellington’s answer to laid‑back, flavour‑first Italian and European deli culture. In its bright, friendly space you’ll find house‑made focaccias, fresh sandwiches, rich antipasti, cheeses and salads built for grazing at lunch or grabbing to go. The espresso is solid, the pastries golden, and the cured meats are worth lingering over with a glass of wine. It’s simple, tasty and unfussy - perfect for casual meet‑ups or midday treats.

Photography: Courtesy of Astoria