Lil Ragú

Fabulous food, speedy service and lovely ambience. This is more a food truck than a restaurant so all seating is outside but made better with the addition of heaters. But the food was delicious. Can’t deny it was a little more expensive than you’d expect to pay for a food truck but it was certainly value for money.

Thursday night, we were lucky to finds a cute table for two, If you’re looking for real Italian food in New Zealand, this is the place. My friend’s restaurant is the definition of authenticity—every dish feels like a trip to Italy. From handmade pasta to rich, slow-cooked sauces, you can taste the love and tradition in every bite. But let’s talk about the tiramisu… I never thought I’d say this, but it’s better than my mom’s in Verona (sorry, Mamma!). It’s perfectly balanced—light, creamy, with just the right hit of espresso and cocoa. An absolute must-try. Whether you’re Italian and missing home or just a lover of great food, this spot is a gem. Can’t recommend it enough!

If you’re looking for a spot that feels like a warm hug from a nonna who really knows her way around a kitchen, look no further than Lil Ragu, the Italian food truck/restaurant that has stolen my carb-loving heart. First, let’s talk about the food. Every dish here tastes like it was hand-delivered by the gods of Italian cuisine. The mezzaluna - meat stuffed raviolis absolutely blew me away delicate, perfectly cooked, and filled with flavors so rich they should come with a trust fund. The ragu pappardelle? A masterpiece of thick, tender pasta swimming in a rich, savory sauce that could make even the coldest heart melt. Yes, it’s a bit pricey, but once you taste it, you’ll understand. These aren’t just meals, they’re edible vacations to the Amalfi coast. The drinks? Worth every cent. What really makes this place shine, though, is the people. The owner, a culinary genius with the friendliest vibe, always has a big smile. The staff? Lovely, attentive, and quick to recommend the perfect dish to suit your mood. This has officially become my go-to spot for a special treat or whenever I need to remind myself that life is better with good pasta and great people. Do yourself a favor and make this your next stop. Your stomach—and your soul—will thank you.

Amazing Italian food - loved our starters and pasta, probably one of the best I have had in Auckland. Good drinks menu too. We went for a late Sunday lunch so had no problem getting a table; otherwise often it’s busy in the evening as there are not a lot of tables. Highly recommend this place!

Lil Ragú – a name that evokes the warmth of a cozy Italian kitchen. But upon our visit, we found the ambiance to be more akin to the inside of a fridge. It was rather cold, which is not exactly what you’d expect from a place that serves hearty, soul-warming meals. Fortunately, they provided blankets, which was a nice touch, making it feel like we were dining at a stylish yet drafty picnic. Overall, the experience was good. The food was rich and flavorful, embodying the essence of Italian comfort cuisine. However, it’s worth noting that the meals are quite rich, which makes lunch the optimal time to visit. A heavy dinner here might leave you feeling like a stuffed ravioli, perfect for a midday feast but perhaps too much for late-night dining. In summary, Lil Ragú offers delicious food and a charming, if chilly, atmosphere. Just remember to bundle up and maybe consider a lunchtime reservation to fully enjoy the rich dishes without feeling overly indulgent.

The location is quaint, with outdoor sheltered seating only so bring a jacket if a bit cooler. The food was delicious, love the fresh pasta, sauces and meats available. Will definitely be returning.

This is such an amazing find! I loved the setup with the restaurant operating out of a food truck and the outdoor seating. Aperol Spritz was made well, and of course the pasta dishes were delectable. I would highly recommend⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️