Farina,

244 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011, New Zealand

"This is a nice Italian place tucked away on the corner of Ponsonby Road. The atmosphere is a busy but intimate and intentionally decorated space. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable, the food was very good."

"First time trying for dinner on a Friday night- simple meal of pizza, drinks and dessert. Had the Vesuvio and it was so simple but the most delicious Italian pizza I’ve tried in New Zealand! The base was thin and light but wasn’t falling apart. I loved that you could fold the slices and the toppings remained. The crust wasn’t doughy as it was also light and the perfect crisp. I was persuaded by the most cheerful staff who was taking care of our table the whole time, to try their espresso martini and I was so glad I did! Espresso martinis are so good when made right but could be so terrible and I have to say, out of many espresso martinis I have tried in akl restaurants, here has been the best! The amount of foam at the top and the creaminess it added, the taste of the coffee bean smelt and tasted delicious with the perfect amount and mix of martini. THE DESSERT. Oh my. We actually tried their tiramisu dessert on Uber eats first and my partner and I fell in love with it but hadn’t tried anything else. I’m extremely lactose but I inhaled a lot of lactose pills just so I could indulge in their tiramisu and fondente al cioccolato. Chefs kiss! Can’t wait to explore the rest of the menu! I also enjoyed the atmosphere and the interior design looked so fun. Small space but utilised very well. I thought they made very well good use of table and bar spacing and was able to fit a lot in but it didn’t feel crowded. Nice place for families and date night!"

"One of the best places for Italian in Auckland. Classic rustic Italian food, beautiful flavours, great Italian wine selection. There's so many things to enjoy about Farina's - the attentive staff, delicious food and comfortable atmosphere. We loved the flounder, clam linguine and crab ravioli. Update - went to Farina last night. The fish stew was superb. So much flavour and copious ammounts of snapper, octopus, prawns and tuatua (clams). My friend had the Beef Lasagna which he loved. Finished with the delicious classic Italian dessert Tiramisu. Another night of exceptional food and service."

"Wow! Wow! Wow! It's doesn't get more authentic than Farina if you're in the mood for some southern Italian food. Fresh and thoughtful ingredients. I can not fault anything on their menu. They have a great wine selection of local and Italian imports of key varieties that will keep your pallet suitably entertained. Staff of friendly and the overall vibe is great."

"Finally got to dine at Farinas. First off the team are so efficient, friendly and the food is Devine! A taste of Southern Italy. We had so much food, wine, beer the works with the family. The Home made pasta - duck tortellini is amazing! Thank you, we will be back to try the rest of the menu."