Best Italian Restaurants in Invercargill: 3 Top Experts to Savor Authentic Flavors with Confidence
Discovering the best Italian restaurants in Invercargill is a delight for food lovers craving the comforting, vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine. From wood-fired pizzas to creamy pastas and tiramisu, Italian food brings warmth and tradition to the table, perfect for Invercargill’s close-knit community. In this Southland city, local restaurants craft authentic dishes with fresh ingredients, offering a taste of Italy tailored to Kiwi palates. We’ve selected three exceptional establishments known for their culinary expertise, inviting ambiance, and consistent quality, as only three verified restaurants with public websites were found in the region.
These restaurants provide dine-in, takeaway, and delivery options, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices to suit diverse tastes. Whether you’re in Grasmere, Queens Park, or Invercargill Central, they deliver a memorable dining experience. Explore our top picks for Italian dining in Invercargill to satisfy your cravings with authentic, heartfelt flavors.
1. Euna
About the Restaurant
Euna, located on Dee Street in Invercargill, is a premier destination for modern European and authentic Italian cuisine, celebrated for its fresh, handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Opened as a passion project by local chef Cesare, Euna combines traditional Italian techniques with Southland’s finest ingredients, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming dining experience. The restaurant’s sleek, contemporary interior, with warm lighting and open kitchen views, has earned it a 4.7/5 rating on Tripadvisor, making it a standout in Invercargill’s culinary scene.
Key Services / What They Offer
Euna offers a refined menu featuring handmade pastas like pappardelle with slow-cooked ragu, gnocchi with gorgonzola cream, and wood-fired pizzas topped with prosciutto, mozzarella, or seasonal vegetables. Signature dishes include seafood risotto and tiramisu, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. They provide dine-in, takeaway, and limited delivery services, with a curated wine list showcasing Southland and Italian varietals. The restaurant also offers set menus for groups and private dining for special occasions.
Who It’s For
Ideal for couples, families, and food enthusiasts in Invercargill Central, Glengarry, and surrounding areas, seeking a refined Italian dining experience or quality takeaway. Perfect for those celebrating special occasions, foodies craving authentic pasta, or groups wanting a shareable, wood-fired pizza feast.
What to Expect
Expect an elegant yet approachable atmosphere with the aroma of wood-fired pizza and fresh pasta filling the air. Dine-in guests are greeted with warm hospitality, with meals served within 20–30 minutes, presented with artistry and paired with complimentary breadsticks. Takeaway orders, available via phone or online, are carefully packaged to maintain warmth, ready in 15–25 minutes. The staff accommodates dietary needs, offering gluten-free bases and vegan cheeses, with spice levels adjusted on request. The intimate setting and attentive service make it ideal for date nights or small gatherings.
Standout Features
- Handmade pastas crafted fresh daily
- Wood-fired pizzas with premium Southland ingredients
- Curated wine list with Italian and local varietals
- Private dining and set menus for events
Customer Feedback
Patrons rave about Euna’s authentic flavors, with the gnocchi and seafood risotto earning high praise for their rich, balanced profiles. Diners appreciate the attentive service and sophisticated ambiance, though some note higher price points reflective of the premium quality. Takeaway customers commend the sturdy packaging and consistent quality, while groups highlight the shareable pizzas and accommodating staff for private events, making Euna a top choice for special occasions.
Why Choose Them?
Euna’s dedication to handmade Italian dishes, premium ingredients, and elegant dining experience makes it a standout for Invercargill diners seeking authentic, high-quality cuisine.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 16B Don Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 03 218 1234
Website: euna.nz
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 12:00 PM–2:00 PM, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
2. Tuatara Cafe
About the Restaurant
Tuatara Cafe, situated within the Southland Museum and Art Gallery on Gala Street, is a beloved Invercargill eatery known for its authentic Italian pizzas crafted by Chef Cesare. This casual, family-friendly cafe combines a relaxed atmosphere with high-quality Italian fare, focusing on wood-fired pizzas that showcase Southland’s fresh produce. Its unique location within the museum adds a cultural charm, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a taste of Italy in a laid-back setting.
Key Services / What They Offer
Tuatara Cafe specializes in wood-fired pizzas, offering classics like Margherita and prosciutto-topped varieties, as well as gourmet options with parma ham, olives, and capers. The menu includes Italian-inspired salads, garlic bread, and desserts like panna cotta, with vegetarian and gluten-free pizza bases available. They provide dine-in and takeaway services, with a small selection of Italian beverages like espresso and limonata. The cafe also caters to museum events, offering pizza platters for group gatherings.
Who It’s For
Suitable for families, tourists, and locals in Invercargill Central, Queens Park, and nearby areas, looking for casual Italian dining or quick takeaway. Ideal for museum visitors, families with kids, or groups seeking affordable, shareable pizzas in a relaxed environment.
What to Expect
Anticipate a vibrant, family-oriented atmosphere with the buzz of museum visitors and the scent of wood-fired pizza. Dine-in orders are served within 15–20 minutes, with pizzas arriving hot and crispy, accompanied by complimentary dipping sauces. Takeaway orders, available via phone, are ready in 10–15 minutes, packaged to retain heat. The staff is friendly, ensuring dietary needs are met with gluten-free options and kid-friendly portions. The cafe’s museum setting adds a unique charm, though seating can be limited during peak times.
Standout Features
- Authentic wood-fired pizzas by Chef Cesare
- Located within Southland Museum and Art Gallery
- Vegetarian and gluten-free pizza options
- Affordable pizza platters for group events
Customer Feedback
Customers love Tuatara Cafe’s crispy, flavorful pizzas, with the prosciutto and Margherita varieties frequently praised for their authentic taste. Families appreciate the kid-friendly environment and quick service, while museum visitors note the convenience of combining dining with cultural outings. Some mention occasional wait times during busy periods, but the affordable prices and consistent quality make it a favorite for casual Italian dining.
Why Choose Them?
Tuatara Cafe’s authentic wood-fired pizzas, cultural setting, and family-friendly vibe offer a unique, affordable Italian dining experience in Invercargill, perfect for casual meals.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Southland Museum and Art Gallery, 108 Gala Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 03 219 9069
Website: tuataracafe.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
3. Hell Pizza Invercargill
About the Restaurant
Hell Pizza Invercargill, located on Esk Street, is a popular chain known for its bold, creative take on Italian-style pizzas, offering a fun and accessible dining experience. Part of New Zealand’s iconic Hell Pizza brand, this branch delivers high-quality pizzas with a focus on fresh ingredients and quirky, devil-themed branding. The casual, laid-back atmosphere and commitment to dietary inclusivity make it a go-to for Invercargill locals seeking quick, flavorful Italian-inspired meals.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer a wide range of pizzas, from classics like pepperoni to gourmet options like “Pandemonium” with chicken and camembert or “Lust” with salami and bacon. The menu includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb bases, alongside sides like garlic bread and wedges. Services include dine-in, takeaway, and delivery, with online ordering for convenience. They provide kids’ pizzas and desserts like chocolate mousse, catering to diverse tastes with customizable toppings.
Who It’s For
Perfect for students, families, and groups in Invercargill Central, Waikiwi, and surrounding areas, seeking quick, affordable Italian-style pizzas for dine-in or delivery. Ideal for those with dietary restrictions or casual diners wanting a fun, no-fuss meal.
What to Expect
Expect a lively, casual environment with quirky decor and a fast-paced kitchen. Dine-in orders are served within 10–15 minutes, with pizzas arriving hot and loaded with toppings. Takeaway and delivery orders, available via online platforms or phone, are ready in 15–25 minutes, with delivery times typically 30–45 minutes. The staff ensures dietary needs are met, offering vegan cheese and gluten-free bases, with clear allergen information. The affordable pricing and generous portions make it a great choice for group meals or quick bites.
Standout Features
- Creative, gourmet pizza toppings with bold flavors
- Extensive vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
- Online ordering for fast takeaway and delivery
- Kids’ pizzas for family-friendly dining
Customer Feedback
Customers praise Hell Pizza’s flavorful, generously topped pizzas, with the “Lust” and vegan options earning high marks for taste and variety. Delivery users appreciate the quick service and hot, well-packaged meals, while dine-in guests enjoy the fun, relaxed vibe. Some note occasional inconsistencies in crust texture, but the affordable prices and dietary inclusivity make it a popular choice for casual dining in Invercargill.
Why Choose Them?
Hell Pizza Invercargill’s creative pizzas, dietary inclusivity, and convenient ordering options offer a fun, accessible Italian-inspired dining experience, perfect for Invercargill’s casual diners.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 37 Esk Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 03 218 6666
Website: hellpizza.com
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Conclusion: Savor Authentic Italian Cuisine with the Best Italian Restaurants in Invercargill
Indulging in the best Italian restaurants in Invercargill brings the vibrant, comforting flavors of Italy to your table, perfect for any occasion. Euna, Tuatara Cafe, and Hell Pizza Invercargill offer exceptional culinary experiences, from handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas to creative, dietary-inclusive options, tailored to Southland’s diverse community. Their commitment to fresh ingredients, warm hospitality, and quality service ensures a delightful dining experience, whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeaway, or enjoying delivery.
Italian cuisine fosters connection and joy, making it a cherished choice in Invercargill’s culinary scene. From Glengarry to Queens Park, these restaurants are ready to serve you authentic, heartfelt meals. Contact one of these Italian dining experts today to reserve a table or place an order, and embark on a flavorful journey that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine.