Had a casual lunch here and it was a great experience overall. We went in without a reservation and still got a table for two, even though it was moderately busy around 1pm on a Saturday. Ordered the vegetarioano pizza, Gnocconi Ripieni 2 pices and a cappuccino, and everything was really good. The vibe is relaxed and pleasant, perfect for a chill lunch. Paid street parking is available nearby, which is convenient. Would happily come back again
Overview
If you're in Auckland and craving authentic Italian cuisine, Gusto Italiano on Ponsonby Road is a must-visit. Located at 263 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011, New Zealand, this charming restaurant brings the taste of Italy right to your table. With its warm ambiance, friendly service, and mouth-watering dishes, it’s no wonder that it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The menu at Gusto Italiano offers a delightful array of traditional Italian dishes, carefully crafted with the finest ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pizza or a hearty pasta, you'll find something to satisfy your taste buds. The pizza selection, featuring thin, crispy crusts and rich toppings, is especially popular. From the Margherita, topped with fresh mozzarella and basil, to the Quattro Stagioni, layered with ham, mushrooms, olives, and artichokes, each pizza is a delightful explosion of flavors.
Pasta lovers will also find a variety of options to enjoy. The Spaghetti Bolognese, a crowd favorite, is rich with savory tomato sauce, tender ground beef, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. For something a bit more indulgent, try the Fettuccine Alfredo, where creamy sauce envelops perfectly cooked pasta. And if you prefer seafood, the Linguine Frutti di Mare is a standout dish, featuring a medley of fresh seafood in a flavorful white wine sauce.
But what really sets Gusto Italiano apart is its commitment to quality. Each dish is prepared with love and attention to detail, ensuring a memorable dining experience. The chef's use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, paired with authentic Italian recipes, creates a menu that feels both familiar and exciting. The balance of flavors in every dish showcases the culinary expertise behind the restaurant, making it a standout spot for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Auckland.
Beyond the food, the service at Gusto Italiano is exceptional. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about Italian cuisine, making recommendations and ensuring that each guest feels welcomed and well taken care of. Whether you’re dining for a special occasion or just enjoying a casual meal, the atmosphere of the restaurant is perfect for any occasion. The cozy interior, with its rustic charm and inviting decor, sets the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable meal.
In addition to the main menu, Gusto Italiano offers a variety of drinks to complement your meal. From Italian wines to classic cocktails, you’ll find the perfect drink to enhance your dining experience. For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, the restaurant offers a selection of refreshing Italian sodas and freshly squeezed juices.
With its prime location in Ponsonby, Gusto Italiano is also an ideal spot for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner. The restaurant is within walking distance of many local attractions, making it a great stop for both residents and tourists. Whether you're exploring the vibrant neighborhood or simply looking for a place to enjoy a delicious meal, Gusto Italiano offers an experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
Customer reviews highlight the restaurant’s consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere. Many diners have praised the authenticity of the dishes, noting that the flavors are just like those found in Italy. The friendly service and comfortable setting also come up frequently in reviews, with many people recommending Gusto Italiano as a go-to spot for Italian cuisine in Auckland. It’s clear that this restaurant has earned a loyal following for a reason.
Whether you're a local or visiting Auckland for the first time, a meal at Gusto Italiano is sure to be a highlight of your culinary journey. With its unbeatable combination of authentic Italian flavors, exceptional service, and a warm atmosphere, it's easy to see why this restaurant continues to thrive. So next time you're in the mood for a delicious Italian meal, make your way to Gusto Italiano and let your taste buds indulge in the rich flavors of Italy.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine list ✓ Live musicPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Assistive hearing loopOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Late-night food ✓ Private dining room ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Romantic ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kidsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 774 reviews
I recently tried the Tortellini Porcini Tartufo, and it was honestly one of the best dishes I’ve had in a while. The sauce was creamy and full of flavour, and the combination of porcini and truffle was rich without being overwhelming. The tortellini was cooked perfectly al dente, giving each bite a nice texture. It’s a dish that feels comforting and delicious, and for the quality you get, the price is very fair. I would definitely order it again. I also had some of their pizzas. They were so good that we started eating right away and completely forgot to take photos. The pizzas were fresh, tasty, and had a great balance of toppings and crust. The service was another highlight. The staff were attentive, friendly, and made sure we were well looked after. Overall, the combination of delicious food and warm service makes this place a great choice. I’m already looking forward to coming back.
This restaurant is truly worth coming back to. The staff treat every customer with genuine care and attention. The atmosphere is elegant, and the service makes you feel completely at home — Gusto has truly achieved that. I still remember when my wife and I first visited about five years ago; there was a picture on the wall surrounded by banknotes from different countries. Time really flies — it’s great to see that same warm feeling is still here.
Gusto ranks among my all-time favorite restaurants in Auckland. Whether it's a quick lunch meeting or a family dinner, we always enjoy dining at Gusto. I particularly love the Pumpkin Gnocchi di Zucca—so light and flavorful—along with the Caprese paired with a side of garlic pizza bread. Yummmm Amano, the owner, is always a delight and welcoming. I like to book online so I never have to wait or miss out.
Went to Gusto Italiano not knowing what to expect which ended up being a great decision last night. Our dinner the seafood spaghetti, chicken breast with vegetables & chicken fettuccine all amazing. The service from Milan & Armando was equally great. Definitely will return and thinking about ordering pizza & lasagne for tonight.
Gusto have been here for ages and good to see that it is still popular. The pasta we had were very good and well presented. We had the Ragu and the Gustose, both were not very saucy and well cooked. We also had the Tre Signori pizza and that was well done as well, perfect base.
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit an Italian restaurant with my friends, and overall, it was a pleasant experience. The ambiance of the place was warm and inviting, making it a comfortable spot for a casual gathering. The service was attentive, and the staff ensured we were well taken care of throughout our meal. As for the food, it was flavorful and satisfying. While I wouldn't rank this as the best Italian restaurant I’ve been to, it definitely deserves a spot among the top ones. I didn’t explore the entire menu, but the dishes I tried left a good impression. The risotto, in particular, was delightful, prepared with fresh clams that added a burst of flavor. It seemed like my friends enjoyed their meals as well, which added to the positive experience. I am keen to return with my family to sample more items from the menu and further explore what the restaurant has to offer. Until then, I would rate this place 4 out of 5 stars. I look forward to revisiting my review after my next visit and possibly discovering more reasons to love this restaurant.