In the heart of Wellington, food lovers are discovering a hidden gem that brings a taste of Italy to New Zealand’s capital. Emiliano Italian Greatness Restaurant has quickly gained a reputation for delivering authentic Italian cuisine with a modern flair. With a focus on high-quality ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and warm hospitality, Emiliano stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone craving genuine Italian flavor. The restaurant’s menu offers a thoughtful blend of regional classics and contemporary dishes, giving diners a wide range of options to enjoy. Whether you’re stopping by for a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a special celebration, the Emiliano Wellington menu is designed to impress.
About Emiliano Italian Greatness
Emiliano is more than just a restaurant it’s an experience that captures the passion, creativity, and soul of Italian cuisine. Inspired by the culinary traditions of Italy’s various regions, Emiliano aims to transport guests straight to the streets of Rome, Florence, or Naples with each dish. The kitchen emphasizes seasonal produce, house-made pastas, and slow-cooked sauces that bring depth and character to every bite.
The ambiance of the restaurant reflects a mix of rustic charm and refined elegance. From candle-lit tables to attentive service, Emiliano Italian Greatness offers a setting that enhances the entire dining experience.
Emiliano Wellington Menu Highlights
The menu at Emiliano Italian Greatness Restaurant Wellington is a showcase of Italy’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. It features appetizers, handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, mains, desserts, and an impressive wine list. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, the menu caters to a variety of preferences and dietary needs.
Antipasti Starters to Set the Tone
Begin your meal with a selection of antipasti that highlight fresh ingredients and bold flavors:
- Bruschetta al Pomodoro: Toasted Italian bread topped with marinated tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil.
- Carpaccio di Manzo: Thinly sliced raw beef drizzled with lemon juice, arugula, and shaved parmesan.
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly battered and fried calamari served with lemon aioli.
- Antipasto Emiliano: A curated platter of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and grilled vegetables perfect for sharing.
Handmade Pasta The Heart of Italian Dining
At Emiliano, pasta is crafted in-house daily, resulting in textures and flavors that stand apart from anything store-bought. Here are some standout dishes:
- Tagliatelle al Ragù: Fresh tagliatelle pasta coated in a rich and slow-simmered Bolognese sauce.
- Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci: Ricotta and spinach-filled ravioli served with sage brown butter and toasted pine nuts.
- Spaghetti alla Puttanesca: A bold dish with olives, capers, anchovies, garlic, and chili in a zesty tomato sauce.
- Pappardelle al Funghi: Wide ribbons of pasta with wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and creamy parmesan sauce.
Pizza Wood-Fired to Perfection
Each pizza at Emiliano is cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven, delivering a crispy crust and smoky flavor:
- Margherita: Classic tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Diavola: Spicy salami, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and chili flakes for a fiery kick.
- Prosciutto e Rucola: Cured prosciutto, arugula, shaved parmesan, and balsamic drizzle.
- Quattro Formaggi: A decadent mix of mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, and parmigiano.
Main Courses Secondi Piatti
The secondi section of the menu features hearty, satisfying mains that highlight premium meats and seafood:
- Pollo al Limone: Pan-seared chicken breast in a lemon and herb sauce, served with seasonal vegetables.
- Osso Buco Milanese: Slow-braised veal shank served over saffron risotto a Northern Italian classic.
- Branzino al Forno: Oven-roasted sea bass with garlic, thyme, and white wine sauce.
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: Tuscan-style T-bone steak grilled to perfection and seasoned simply with sea salt and rosemary.
Contorni Sides That Complete the Meal
- Patate al Rosmarino: Crispy rosemary potatoes tossed in olive oil and sea salt.
- Insalata Verde: Mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette and shaved fennel.
- Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
Dolci Desserts to Indulge In
No Italian meal is complete without dessert. Emiliano’s dolci menu offers traditional and irresistible options:
- Tiramisu: Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa.
- Panna Cotta: Silky vanilla cream pudding with seasonal fruit compote.
- Cannoli Siciliani: Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips.
- Gelato Trio: House-made Italian gelato with rotating flavors.
Wine and Beverage Selection
Emiliano Italian Greatness pairs its dishes with an impressive list of Italian wines, including reds from Tuscany, whites from Veneto, and sparkling options from Emilia-Romagna. The staff are happy to recommend wine pairings based on your menu choices. In addition to wine, the restaurant offers a curated list of Italian-inspired cocktails, craft beers, and non-alcoholic options like San Pellegrino sodas and house-made lemonades.
Vegetarian and Special Diet Options
The Emiliano Wellington menu includes a wide range of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Many pasta dishes can be made with gluten-free noodles upon request, and pizzas can be prepared with gluten-free crust. Vegan diners can enjoy items like the Grilled Vegetable Pizza with dairy-free cheese or a customized pasta with tomato-based sauces and plant-based ingredients.
Dining Experience and Atmosphere
The restaurant’s atmosphere is both sophisticated and welcoming. Soft lighting, elegant table settings, and background Italian music create the perfect backdrop for everything from date nights to family gatherings. The service is consistently praised for being attentive without being intrusive, and the kitchen’s open view lets diners witness the passion behind every plate.
Emiliano Italian Greatness Restaurant Wellington delivers on its promise of authentic Italian cuisine prepared with heart and skill. With a menu that balances traditional dishes and modern touches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From hand-rolled pasta to wood-fired pizza and decadent desserts, every item reflects the love of Italian food and the joy of sharing it. Whether you’re a Wellington local or visiting the area, Emiliano offers a culinary escape that celebrates the richness of Italy with every dish served.