251 Parnell Road,
Parnell
Auckland,


(09) 375 0083

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5 out of 5

Every time I’ve walked past La Bocca Italian Restaurant, I’ve felt drawn in by the romantic Italian ambience that pours out onto Parnell Road. The faint sound of Italian classics and the lure of fine cuisine are difficult to resist.

Although charmed by the white table-clothed tables down the brick alleyway adjacent to the restaurant, we opted for the warmer, more intimate option of a cute wooden table inside. Candle lit and set with San Pellegrino for two, we poured over the strictly Italian menu, accompanied by English explanations – making it authentic but not an exam.

La Bocca's wine list boasts both Italian and Kiwi options. The friendly waitress recommended the Donere Marche Rosso ($12), a complex glass that kept me entertained all evening. My dining companion opted for the Peroni ($6) -- the only Italian on the Kiwi beer menu.

The entrée’s were an awkward bunch, so we decided on both safe and daring options.

I chose the ‘Fegaini con Polenta’ (13.50). Considering how dirty liver can taste, the ‘Cognac flamed chicken livers’ were pleasant. With bacon, red onions, mustard and grilled polenta to soak up the creamy sauce - this is one dare that paid off.

My friend ordered the ‘Calamari Grigliati’ ($14.50). Real calamari – not squid rings!

From the range of exquisite mains I chose the outstanding Gamberoni Gratinati ($29.50). The King Prawns in an amazing white wine and tomato sauce on saffron risotto were easily the highlight of the night.

Again, not wanting to stray to much from his comfort zone, my friend chose the Tortellini al Gorgonzola priced at $22.00. Chicken tortellini in a very rich creamy blue cheese and brandy sauce. The Green salad side order was easily enough for both of us - very fresh and accompanied both of our mains suitably.

Although far from hungry at this stage, the glee from the other diners as they tucked into their dessert was enough to convince us to at least share something off the dessert menu. The Pannacotta ($11) was superb - easily the best I've tasted in a long while.

It's pleasing to know the ambience and romanticism of Italian dining is not a world away - a simple trip to La Bocca in Parnell should provide fans of Italian cuisine the fix they so desperately crave.