Baduzzi

Along Auckland’s North Wharf, Baduzzi is a lively, much-loved dining spot shaped by the vision of Annette and Michael Dearth, two longstanding names in New Zealand hospitality. The restaurant draws on Michael’s American upbringing and the warmth of his Southern Italian family cooking, resulting in a menu that feels both generous and deeply personal. The kitchen focuses on big, comforting flavours designed for sharing, with dishes that reflect a mix of tradition, travel and seasonal New Zealand produce. The signature hand-crafted meatballs remain a must order, capturing the heart of what Baduzzi does best: simple food done exceptionally well, made to be enjoyed together. The bar plays a big part in the experience with a playful cocktail list that sits alongside a wide-ranging wine selection, making it just as easy to settle in for a quick drink as it is to stay for a long, leisurely meal. The Baduzzi spritz is a standout alongside the more extensive drinks offering. The cannoli and tiramisu are classics and cannot be missed, rounding out the experience with a nod to timeless Italian comfort. At its core, Baduzzi is about connection, food shared across the table, stories told over plates and a relaxed sense of occasion that keeps people coming back.