The best Italian restaurants in Taupo sit a short walk apart on Tūwharetoa Street in the town centre, close to the lakefront and Tongariro Domain. For Italian food in Taupo, expect pizzas, pasta, risotto and Italian and New Zealand wines, with options for date nights, family dinners and group bookings. Sorrento Italian Dining and Portofino both take bookings for dine-in as well as takeaway orders.
1Sorrento Italian Dining & Wine Bar
Sorrento is an Italian restaurant and wine bar at 42 Tuwharetoa Street in the heart of Taupo township, named after the coastal town in southwestern Italy that inspired its owner. The kitchen cooks Italian-inspired dishes with New Zealand ingredients, from pizza and pasta through to grill mains, in a relaxed setting that suits a night out or a quieter dinner. It is run by Sandy, a Taupo local of 30 years, with restaurant manager Shirley Douib.
Services
- Antipasti, pizzas and pastas
- Mains including scotch fillet and pork belly from the grill
- Desserts and a kids menu
- Online ordering for pickup and delivery
- Table bookings through Book N Order and ResDiary
Highlights
- Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes marked on the menu, with gluten-free pasta or bread available
- Free-range New Zealand poultry and pork only
- Rotating list of New Zealand and Italian wines, plus cocktails, beer and non-alcoholic options
- Work-do package with two- and three-course dinners, paired with Confinement Escape Rooms
Location & Contact
Name: Sorrento Italian Dining & Wine Bar
Address: 42 Tuwharetoa Street, Taupo 3330
Phone: 07 378 8212
Website: sorrentodining.co.nz
2Portofino Taupō
Portofino Taupō is the local branch of a family-owned Italian restaurant group first established in Parnell, Auckland, in 1980. Its Tūwharetoa Street restaurant near Tongariro Domain serves traditional Italian cooking with a mostly Northern Italian influence, built around New Zealand produce. It suits family get-togethers, birthday dinners, corporate celebrations, wedding parties and date nights.
Services
- Pizza breads and cold antipasti such as bruschetta classica
- Pasta and risotto, including spaghetti alla vongole and risotto alla pescatora
- Secondi piatti such as veal scaloppine, eye fillet and lamb cutlets
- Takeaway menu and dessert menu
- Booking enquiries for groups, with a set menu for large groups
Highlights
- Portofino brand established in 1980
- Family-owned restaurant group with several locations across New Zealand
- House gluten-free pasta available, and mains can be made gluten free on request
- Open for lunch from Friday to Sunday and for dinner every night
Location & Contact
Name: Portofino Taupō
Address: 28 Tūwharetoa Street, Taupō
Phone: 07 377 6293
Website: portofino.co.nz/taupo
How to Choose the Right Italian Restaurant in Taupo
- Menu style: decide whether you want a pizza and pasta night or a fuller Italian dinner with antipasti, secondi piatti such as veal scaloppine or eye fillet, and dessert.
- Dietary needs: check how the menu marks vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes, and whether gluten-free pasta or pizza bases are offered.
- Opening times: many Taupo restaurants open for dinner only on weekdays, so confirm lunch service before you go.
- Group bookings: for birthdays, work functions or wedding parties, ask about set menus, private areas and deposit requirements.
- Takeaway and delivery: if you are staying in, check whether the restaurant takes online orders for pickup or delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taupo Italian Restaurants
Where are the Italian restaurants in Taupo?
The Italian restaurants in Taupo are in the town centre on Tūwharetoa Street, within walking distance of the lakefront, Tongariro Domain and most central motels. If you are staying out at Acacia Bay, Wharewaka or Nukuhau, it is a short drive into town.
Do I need to book an Italian restaurant in Taupo?
Booking is recommended on Friday and Saturday nights, during school holidays and around major events on the lake, when the town is busy with visitors. Most restaurants take bookings online or by phone, and larger groups should always book ahead.
Can I get gluten-free Italian food in Taupo?
Yes. Italian restaurants commonly offer gluten-free pasta or pizza bases, and many mains can be adapted. Always tell your server about allergies, as menu descriptions do not list every ingredient and kitchens share equipment.
Is Italian food in Taupo suitable for families with children?
Italian menus of pizza and pasta generally suit children well, and some restaurants run a dedicated kids menu. Earlier dinner sittings are usually quieter and easier with young children.
Can I order Italian takeaways in Taupo?
Several Italian restaurants in Taupo offer takeaway menus, and some take online orders for pickup or delivery. Check the restaurant’s own ordering page for current delivery areas and times.
What is the difference between Northern and Southern Italian cooking?
Northern Italian cooking leans towards butter, cream sauces, risotto and veal, while Southern Italian cooking uses more olive oil, tomatoes, seafood and dried pasta. Many New Zealand Italian restaurants blend both styles with local produce.
How are Taupo restaurants checked for food safety?
Food businesses operate under the Food Act 2014 and are registered and verified through the local council or MPI. You can read more about food safety rules on the Ministry for Primary Industries website, and Taupō District Council handles local food business registration.