Went to Bivacco for dinner with a group of eight. We were seated inside with waterfront views, which were lovely. The service was excellent — genuinely friendly staff who didn’t mind us taking our time. Our water glasses were kept full and they were attentive with drinks throughout the evening. I ordered the Caesar salad with grilled chicken. The salad itself was $25, with an extra $14 for the chicken — easily the most expensive add-on I’ve seen. That said, it was a solid, well-done Caesar. I enjoyed the cheese, fresh green beans, crunchy lettuce, and the dressing. We also ordered a range of vegetable sides. The roast beetroot and asparagus were particularly good. For dessert, I had the baked Alaska, which was fairly basic — soft meringue with chocolate ice cream. I tried some of the tiramisu as well, and that was incredible: thick layers of creamy mascarpone with a rich coffee liqueur flavour. Overall, a great setting and excellent service, with some standout dishes. It is very pricey but I guess you’re paying as much for the experience as the food.
Overview
Bivacco is a dining experience that promises to impress from the moment you step into its sleek, modern setting at 115 Customs Street West, Auckland Central. Nestled in the heart of Auckland, this vibrant spot draws in locals and visitors alike, offering a truly refined dining experience with an Italian twist.
The atmosphere at Bivacco is both welcoming and stylish, with an inviting interior that balances contemporary design with subtle hints of rustic charm. The warm lighting and clean lines of the décor set the stage for an evening of relaxed yet sophisticated dining. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a casual gathering with friends, the ambiance ensures that each visit is memorable.
The menu at Bivacco is where the magic truly happens, showcasing a beautiful selection of Italian dishes crafted from the finest local ingredients. The culinary team here is dedicated to creating dishes that are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. One standout dish is their hand-rolled pasta, which is a perfect example of the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity. Whether it’s a hearty ravioli stuffed with ricotta and spinach or a delicate linguine with fresh seafood, the pasta is always cooked to perfection.
The wine list at Bivacco complements the menu beautifully, featuring a carefully curated selection of wines from Italy and New Zealand. If you're in the mood to explore different flavors, their knowledgeable staff is more than happy to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal. It’s this level of expertise that sets Bivacco apart from other eateries, offering not just a meal but an experience.
For dessert lovers, Bivacco has you covered. The dessert menu is filled with Italian classics, each one offering a sweet ending to a delightful meal. The tiramisu is a crowd favorite, perfectly layered with just the right balance of coffee and cocoa, while the panna cotta offers a creamy, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
The service at Bivacco is another reason to keep coming back. The staff is attentive, friendly, and well-versed in the menu, ensuring that every guest feels taken care of from start to finish. They are happy to share the story behind the ingredients or the origin of a particular dish, adding a personal touch that enhances the dining experience.
Reviews from regulars and first-timers alike highlight Bivacco’s impeccable attention to detail, from the food quality to the overall atmosphere. It's a place where each visit feels special, whether you're celebrating a milestone or just enjoying a delicious meal in a comfortable setting. Guests rave about the consistency of the dishes, noting that every meal is as satisfying as the last.
For those who love outdoor dining, Bivacco also offers a stunning terrace where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the views of the bustling city streets. The location, just a short walk from the waterfront, makes it a prime spot for enjoying a meal while watching the world go by.
In addition to its regular menu, Bivacco also offers a selection of daily specials, ensuring there is always something new and exciting to try. This flexibility keeps the menu fresh and appealing, catering to both returning guests and newcomers. Whether you're in the mood for a light bite or a more indulgent feast, there’s something for everyone.
What truly sets Bivacco apart is its balance of quality, innovation, and tradition. It’s a restaurant where the culinary expertise shines through in every dish, while the casual, yet refined atmosphere makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, Bivacco delivers a memorable experience that leaves you wanting more.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ Dine-in âś“ DeliveryHighlights
âś“ Great beer selection âś“ Great cocktails âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great wine listPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Happy-hour drinks âś“ Late-night food âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegan options âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ Romantic âś“ Trendy âś“ UpmarketCrowd
âś“ Groups âś“ TouristsPlanning
âś“ Brunch reservations recommended âś“ Lunch reservations recommended âś“ Reservations required âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Paid parking lot âś“ Paid street parkingPets
âś“ Dogs allowedPhotos
Location
Reviews
Our dinner yesterday was truly impressive! The menu is consistently excellent, featuring fresh ingredients and bold, well-balanced flavors. Beyond the food, the service was warm and attentive. The cocktails and pasta dishes, in particular, were the highlights of the evening.
Great experience. My daughter wanted to come here for lunch.. food was outstanding, pizza and salad had fantastic flavours - food came out is great time for us and service ver pleasant. Place gets busy so do need to have a reservation during the weekend.
We stopped in here for lunch and I had what was hands down the best pasta I've ever eaten! We had a lovely time here, we were seated quickly and the service was friendly and attentive but not overbearing, which was nice. The food was served in good time and was beautifully presented and delicious. I'd recommend the goat's cheese ravioli to anybody!
Tried the Christmas lunch buffet. The seafood selections, antipasto, and desserts were decent. Some of the ham was a bit dry, and parts of the roast beef were tough, but the truffle mac n’ cheese and truffle pizza were really good. Staff were friendly and accommodating.
We had our Christmas Eve dinner at Bivacco and it did not disappoint at all — a truly top-notch experience. We started with crispy calamari and oysters that were incredibly fresh. Our group ordered everything from pizza and chips to lamb rump and a sirloin steak, and every dish was delicious. The drinks were spot on, the atmosphere was fantastic, and it’s a place that’s become a real staple for us. We’ll definitely continue to return
We had a wonderful experience at Bivacco — starting with great cocktails and a crisp brut that paired perfectly with a sunny waterfront afternoon. The Roasted Hawke’s Bay Lamb Rump and the Black Angus Eye Fillet were cooked beautifully and full of flavour. We finished with the Classic Tiramisu and an Affogato, the perfect end to a relaxed, memorable meal. Highly recommend.