Otto

Restaurants key icon.
Restaurants key icon.

Monday4:30 – 9:00 pm.

Tuesday4:30 – 9:00 pm.

Wednesday4:30 – 9:30 pm.

Thursday4:30 – 10:00 pm.

Friday4:30 – 10:30 pm.

Saturday4:30 – 10:30 pm.

SundayClosed.

375 Karangahape Rd, Auckland Central, Auckland

09 394 1555

You simply can’t talk about the best of Auckland’s dining scene without mentioning Otto. In a few short years, this humble Italian-style eatery tucked away along Karangahape Road has more than made a mark for itself in the city’s foodie zeitgeist. 

Helmed by pasta connoisseur and chef John Pountney, a meal at Otto is nothing short of memorable. If you couldn’t already tell, this place is popular, so make a booking, or arrive bang on opening time to secure a spot. And believe us when we say it’s well worth it. 

Your efforts in nabbing a table are rewarded with a cosy, lively atmosphere. The energetic, open kitchen is complemented by communal seating and warehouse-style industrial finishings. Pair this with a classic Italian tipple—think an Aperol or Limoncello spritz—and you’ve got yourself a winner. 

Put simply, dinner is a sharing affair. Small plates are brought out as they’re ready, making it the perfect snacking situation for your crew. The dinner menu boasts a moreish selection of Italian favourites that change with the seasons. 

Staples on the line-up include house-made focaccia, Italian-style dumplings, specialty lamb and pork dishes, as well as a curated choice of fresh pasta numbers. Expect ragu through to spaghetti, but count yourself truly lucky if their legendary kumara gnocchi with ricotta, gorgonzola, walnut and watercress is on the menu. 

When dessert rolls around, one thing is for sure, it doesn’t disappoint. The seasonal line-up offers panna cotta, sorbets, Affogato, gelato and of course, some sort of Tiramisu element. You’ll want to indulge with an after-dinner cocktail along the lines of a Frangelico Sour or Tiramisu Martini. 

Whether it’s casual after-work drinks or a special celebration, Otto is a rare gem that delivers on all occasions. What’s more, the price point is super reasonable—with small bites at $6 and larger pasta plates at $22. And since you’ll be among the hustle and bustle of Karangahape Road, there’s no better place to kick-start an evening out in Auckland. 

Words by Jess Willemse & Photography by Anna Briggs

Information not correct? Report an error

Location

375 Karangahape Rd, Auckland Central, Auckland

Nearby Places

Crushes

Racks of clothing at Crushes, Auckland.
Place Auckland
Fashion key icon.

An eclectic mix of all things homemade, handcrafted, New Zealand made and vintage.

Artspace Aotearoa

The exterior of the building.
Place Auckland
Galleries and museum key icon.

A gallery true to its name.

Pici Pasta

Exterior image looking through the big glass windows into Pici Auckland.
Place Auckland
Bars key icon. Restaurants key icon.

Pasta fiends unite; you simply can’t miss a meal at Auckland institution, Pici.

Good Form and Mr Bigglesworthy

A white tall vase with a dried flower bouquet on display in the store.
Place Auckland

For those seeking tasteful interior inspo, we guarantee you’ll find it at Good Form and ​​Mr Bigglesworthy.

Similar Places

Tanuki's Cave

A packed restaurant on a dark night.
Place Auckland
Restaurants key icon.

Tucked away on Queen Street (in the middle of Auckland’s arts precinct) lies Tanuki’s Cave: a not-so-secret, gem of a yakitori bar.

Tosca

Wooden interior of Tosca in Remuera Auckland with smiling barista standing behind counter with coffee menu in background
Place Auckland

Tosca, a beloved espresso bar nestled in the heart of Remuera's vibrant 1050 precinct, has quickly become a local favourite.

Bar Martin

A table of customers being served by a man at Bar Martin, Auckland.
Place Auckland
Bars key icon.

After a long week, there’s something extremely comforting about pulling up to your local for a pint.

Freida Margolis

Alcohol in a shelf inside.
Place Auckland
Bars key icon.

A fine establishment full of colour and character with a penchant for the drink.