Pici Pasta

Pasta fiends unite; you simply can’t miss a meal at Auckland institution, Pici. This tiny spot is snugly hidden in St Kevin’s Arcade—the perfect base to soak up Karangahape Road’s electric energy. A word of warning, Pici is popular (and for a good reason) so make sure to book ahead.    

If you’re lucky, you’ll nab a table outside and enjoy dining al-fresco among the arcade’s activities. Start the evening with a glass of craft vino; these guys have a knack for nailing a small but impactful alternative wine list. 

Their food menu is no different, featuring a curated selection of bites that work in harmony with the seasons. But one thing is sure—you won’t find mac ‘n’ cheese on this pasta list. 

We recommend ordering several plates to share, so your tastebuds can enjoy the whole Pici experience. 

On the antipasti front, you’ll typically find Nocellara olives, handcrafted focaccia and a stracciatella dish. A little advice, do not sleep on the porchetta—this melt-in-your-mouth meat is what foodie dreams are made of. 

Moving on to the mains section, you’re presented with a small list of handcrafted pasta dishes. Enjoy a choice of fettuccine, pappardelle or spaghettini with vegetarian or meat-based sauces. A fan favourite, the Pici cacio e pepe, is a must. This minimalist pasta is packed with flavour; you won’t regret slurping your way through a plate of this.  

Things aren’t over until you’ve ordered dessert. The refind sweet section offers a seasonal sorbet, a chocolate dish and their famous cheesecake with sea salt and EVOO. Drooling already? Book an evening of deliciousness over at Pici.