Pici

Found tucked away in St Kevin's Arcade, this fresh pasta and wine restaurant is modelled on the small wine bars of Europe — and is a fave of Auckland's own Jordan 'The Caker' Rondel.

It's a cosy and intimate space — it can seat up to 42 patrons at a time — but given its popularity, you'll probably see someone you know in there, on a date, in a group or grabbing a solo post-work bite.  Pici's menu changes with the seasons but we can only hope they never get rid of the cheesey, peppery cacio e pepe ($18), the ultimate in comfort eating. If you need further warming, choose one of their fiery chilli-topped bowls of pasta — like their famous fettuccine with mascarpone and nduja ($20). And don't worry plant-based pals, you don't have to just stick to the bread — the vegan fettuccine pomodoro is back as a permanent addition to the winter menu. Pair it with a Pet Nat, and you're on your way to having the perfect evening.

Just make sure you save room for Pici's famous olive oil-topped cheesecake dessert ($12) which is fast-reaching icon status for those in the know.