ILONA pasta
80A Emerson Street, Napier South, Napier 4110
Rating: 4.9 ★ (726 ratings)
Details
ILONA pasta, a delightful family-run Italian restaurant, is nestled within a historic Art Deco building on Emerson Street in Napier, offering a truly cosy and inviting atmosphere. This establishment particularly stands out for its unique family involvement, with owners personally overseeing everything from the preparation of the dough to serving guests. The charming interior, often featuring children's artwork and tables named after the daughters Ilo and Ona, contributes to a heartwarming and special dining experience, evoking a sense of genuine Italian hospitality.
The cuisine focuses on authentic Italian fare, with a strong emphasis on freshly made, homemade pasta crafted using traditional methods and complemented by local ingredients. Notable dishes include the rich Pork Belly Fettuccine in a creamy mushroom and truffle sauce, the popular "Bestie Is Back" chicken, bacon, and mushroom fettuccine, and delectable Seafood Spaghetti. To begin, guests can enjoy exquisite appetizers such as delicate burrata or bruschettas, whilst classic Italian desserts like tiramisu and crème brûlée provide a perfect conclusion to the meal.
This charming eatery is ideally suited for families, couples, or solo travellers seeking an authentic and high-quality traditional dining experience. Its welcoming, attentive service from the family members creates a comfortable atmosphere, making it a wonderful choice for various occasions, including celebratory meals. Given its popularity, making a reservation is highly recommended to ensure a table at this much-loved Hawke's Bay gem.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM | Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM | Thursday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM | Friday: 5:30 – 10:00 PM | Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM | Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM
Contact
+64 21 186 0029 | http://www.facebook.com/ilonapasta.nz
Comments
The food was terrific. We had burrata, bolognese, bestie is back, kids chicken fettucine, and creme brulee. I think my daughter put it best when she said "Is this the best food ever or WHAT?!" and when she failed to finish the generous portion and I got to eat the last couple fork fulls... I gotta admit it was just as good as the other dishes. Creme brulee with lemon sorbet is inspired, and it was delicious.
So, food comments out of the way, the love and heart of this family... It was so heartwarming I struggle to articulate how my 90m here made my whole week. This is a true family business. Dad in the kitchen, mum and daughters working the tables. They all worked so well as a team and it was so sweet seeing the youngest who can't be older than 9 taking orders and adding garnish to the dishes when dad hit the bell to deliver it out.
Furthermore the restaurant is decked out with photos and art from the girls. It's in the walls, tables, it's in the air. It felt like they welcomed us into their happy family and it was beautiful.
I'm distraught I don't live locally so I can't come here every week for the rest of my life.