Vibe
With views of Pt Chevalier Library and a postage-stamped size park, Ragu’s not in Auckland’s most scenic location. The interior is better with lots of warm wood, leather furniture and moody lighting. A shame about the techno-infused muzak though.

Service
Bordering on the over-familiar with loads of menu selections being affirmed as ‘Choice!’, but hey, we’re in Pt Chev after all. No complaints though with the delivery of all drinks and food. Actually, it was pretty choice.

Winelist
Ragu’s owners also run Vivace in the city, and they used to have La Zeppa at Victoria Park. What that means is the winelist is simply stellar with virtually everything is available by the glass. Extra bonus points for being the only place in Auckland we’ve seen beers from the Hawkes Bay Independent Brewery. Their slightly more-honeyed version of Summer Ale could easily become our favourite warm weather tipple.

Highlights
Summer’s all about relaxed grazing, so we go for a combo of Sichuan seasoned squid with lemon aioli ($9.50), grilled lamb koftas topped with red onion, mint and sumac ($12.00), and slow roast pork belly skewers with spicy plum sauce ($12). Nothing is knock-your-socks-off great, but it’s all packed with flavour and really good value.

Most Surprising Dish
After an incredibly brief period of decision, we make the call to share a dessert. Flecked with pecans, the baked cheesecake ($10) is a great version of a classic, still creamy, but with a little more texture than normal.

The Bottom Line
Ragu is a well-run and good value option in Pt Chevalier, with the owners’ foodie creds on display in robust, authentic flavours and one of Auckland’s best winelists.

A Reason to Return
Cooler weather, and the opportunity to dive into hearty mains like marinated oven roasted chicken breast with walnut and green apple salad and saffron potatoes ($25.00) and Kashmir-style lamb shank with kumara and ginger mash and fresh coriander ($27.00).

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