Pici

In the heart of Auckland's vibrant Karangahape Road, nestled within the historic St Kevin's Arcade, lies Pici, an Italian eatery that has rapidly become a cornerstone of the city's culinary landscape. This intimate restaurant, known for its handcrafted pasta, offers a dining experience that blends simplicity with sophistication, embodying the essence of Italian cuisine while embracing the local New Zealand context.

Pici's journey began with the vision of Chef Jonny Thevenard, his partner Gemma Hareb, and fellow chef Kaz Suzuki. Inspired by their travels through Italy, the trio sought to bring an authentic slice of Italian culinary tradition to Auckland . They envisioned a place where the focus was on honest fare—simple, yet bursting with flavour, made from fresh ingredients every day.

The restaurant itself is a cozy space, characterised by its unique quirks and a decor that includes a striking line art mural of a woman indulging in a bowl of pasta. The bar, crafted from recycled timber, adds to the warm, inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both romantic dates and gatherings with friends. Despite its modest size, Pici makes a bold statement with its menu, offering a range of pasta dishes alongside smaller plates designed for sharing.

Pici's menu is a testament to the art of pasta making. Among its offerings, the pici cacio e pepe stands out—a simple yet sublime dish that showcases the power of minimalist ingredients. The spaghettini vongole, a light and flavourful option for seafood lovers, and the rich fettuccine with prawns, nduja, and bisque, offer something for every palate. For those seeking heartier fare, the rigatoni with pork and fennel sausage ragu is a must-try. Notably, Pici also caters to gluten-free diners, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their pasta creations.

Desserts at Pici are equally delish, with the almond semifreddo and dark chocolate offering a sweet finish to the meal. The cheesecake, uniquely topped with extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, and sea salt, provides a delightful balance of sweet and savory.

No Italian dining experience is complete without a selection of wines, and Pici excels in this area as well. The restaurant works with a variety of small producers to offer an array of Italian and New Zealand wines, including natural wines and vino on tap. For those who prefer other beverages, there is a range of beers and the option to indulge in bespoke cocktails.

Pici represents more than just a place to eat; it is a celebration of Italian culture, a tribute to the simplicity of good food, and a welcome addition to Auckland's diverse restaurant scene . Its commitment to quality ingredients, coupled with the passion of its founders, has made Pici a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

By embracing the essence of Italian dining—shared meals, a focus on quality ingredients, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere—Pici has become a testament to the enduring appeal of Italian cuisine. It stands as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most memorable, offering a culinary experience that goes beyond the plate to touch the heart of every diner.

For more information and to experience the magic of Pici for yourself, consider exploring Karangahape Road's culinary delights and discovering why Pici has earned its place as one of Auckland's best Italian spots .