We had dinner here end of November. The food was delicious - starters, mains and desserts! The staff were awesome and so friendly. We will definitely be back!
Overview
Portofino Parnell offers a delightful dining experience that transports guests straight to the heart of Italy, nestled on 156 Parnell Road in Auckland. From the moment you step inside, the restaurant's cozy ambiance, combined with authentic Italian flavors, makes it an exceptional choice for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a special evening out, this local gem consistently delivers a top-notch experience.
The menu at Portofino Parnell is a true reflection of classic Italian cuisine, featuring a wide array of dishes made from the finest ingredients. From fresh pastas to perfectly grilled meats, the flavors are rich, and the presentation is always beautiful. Popular items include their signature wood-fired pizzas, which are the perfect balance of crispy crust and flavorful toppings, and the creamy risottos that are cooked to perfection. If you're in the mood for seafood, the seafood pasta with plump, succulent prawns and clams in a delicate white wine sauce is always a favorite.
One of the standout features of Portofino Parnell is its attention to detail when it comes to sourcing local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant takes pride in supporting local farmers and fishermen, ensuring that each dish not only bursts with flavor but is also a sustainable choice. For those with dietary preferences or restrictions, Portofino Parnell offers gluten-free pasta options, vegetarian dishes, and plenty of fresh salads to satisfy every palate.
For dessert, the house-made tiramisu is a must-try. Light, fluffy, and perfectly sweetened, it’s the ideal way to end a memorable meal. Another popular dessert is the panna cotta, which boasts a smooth texture and subtle vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh berries. Paired with a glass of Italian wine or a rich espresso, these desserts add a sweet finish to any dining experience.
The atmosphere at Portofino Parnell is both warm and inviting, thanks to its stylish yet relaxed décor. Whether you're seated indoors surrounded by the intimate, rustic setting or outside on the charming terrace, the environment is always comfortable and conducive to a pleasant dining experience. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, offering great recommendations on both food and drink. Their commitment to providing excellent service makes the dining experience even more enjoyable.
Portofino Parnell also stands out with its exceptional wine list, which highlights a variety of Italian wines. From bold reds to crisp whites, there’s a perfect wine to complement any dish. If you’re unsure which to choose, the staff are always happy to provide recommendations based on your meal preferences.
If you're planning an event or special occasion, Portofino Parnell is also an ideal venue. With its spacious dining area and private event options, the restaurant can accommodate group bookings and provide a customized menu tailored to your needs. The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed, making it perfect for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.
In terms of location, Portofino Parnell enjoys a prime spot in Auckland's iconic Parnell district. The area itself is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and an array of boutique shops, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. After a satisfying meal, you can take a leisurely stroll around the area and explore the nearby parks, galleries, and shops.
For those who want to enjoy Portofino Parnell at home, they offer a convenient takeaway and delivery service, ensuring that their delicious dishes can be enjoyed no matter where you are. Whether you're having a cozy night in or planning a picnic, it’s an excellent option for enjoying restaurant-quality food from the comfort of your own space.
In short, Portofino Parnell remains a standout choice in Auckland’s restaurant scene. With its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine, exceptional service, and welcoming ambiance, it continues to attract both regulars and newcomers alike. It’s a place where you can enjoy delicious food, great wine, and unforgettable memories with friends, family, or that special someone.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Late-night food ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Romantic ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ GroupsPlanning
✓ Reservations required ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Had an amazing dinner tonight!! The food was hot and flavour some! I had the mussels, cannelloni and panna cota and it was sooooo good!! Definitely going back again!! Service was spectacular, my waitress was amazing and owner super friendly
This used to the favourite go to when we were dating in the 90s. It has been a delight to come back today with our loved ones and surprised to meet everything still tasty and hearty like how we always remembered.
Fantastic service and great atmosphere. What I liked about it was the restaurant appeared to have a lot of regulars. They could also handle our group of 8 which was great
First time trying a Portofino chain and found it to be quite enjoyable for a work leaving dinner. Portions were quite generously sized and the dishes were quite tasty overall. Just a bit hot sitting inside though and couldn’t really feel any air con on a warm summer evening.