Lil Ragú — Restaurant in Devonport-Takapuna

If you’re looking for a spot that feels like a warm hug from a nonna who really knows her way around a kitchen, look no further than Lil Ragu, the Italian food truck/restaurant that has stolen my carb-loving heart.

First, let’s talk about the food. Every dish here tastes like it was hand-delivered by the gods of Italian cuisine. The mezzaluna - meat stuffed raviolis absolutely blew me away delicate, perfectly cooked, and filled with flavors so rich they should come with a trust fund. The ragu pappardelle? A masterpiece of thick, tender pasta swimming in a rich, savory sauce that could make even the coldest heart melt. Yes, it’s a bit pricey, but once you taste it, you’ll understand. These aren’t just meals, they’re edible vacations to the Amalfi coast.

The drinks? Worth every cent.

What really makes this place shine, though, is the people. The owner, a culinary genius with the friendliest vibe, always has a big smile. The staff? Lovely, attentive, and quick to recommend the perfect dish to suit your mood.

This has officially become my go-to spot for a special treat or whenever I need to remind myself that life is better with good pasta and great people.

Do yourself a favor and make this your next stop. Your stomach—and your...

I’ve eaten here a few times and the food’s been decent, so I thought I’d bring a friend along while we were in Takapuna. Big mistake. She asked for a simple side of bread with her pasta—nothing outrageous. A totally fair and normal request right?

Instead of politely saying they didn’t have any, the owner came over and got visibly worked up, telling her she should be fine with just the pasta and that it would be "enough to fill her up".

Seriously? Who speaks to a customer like that? It was condescending, unnecessary, and flat-out rude. If you can't handle a few busy tables on a Saturday night maybe get out of the food game mate.

To top it off, he later tried to excuse his attitude by blaming it on his “accent.” lol. Give me a break. You run a food truck, not a Michelin star. Take a lesson from chefs like Ben Bayly or Fabio Bernardini in Auckland —world-class talent, zero attitude, and kind.

Totally embarrassed I brought my friend here. The food is not even that great to excuse that kind of behavior. Won’t...

Lil Ragú – a name that evokes the warmth of a cozy Italian kitchen. But upon our visit, we found the ambiance to be more akin to the inside of a fridge. It was rather cold, which is not exactly what you’d expect from a place that serves hearty, soul-warming meals. Fortunately, they provided blankets, which was a nice touch, making it feel like we were dining at a stylish yet drafty picnic.

Overall, the experience was good. The food was rich and flavorful, embodying the essence of Italian comfort cuisine. However, it’s worth noting that the meals are quite rich, which makes lunch the optimal time to visit. A heavy dinner here might leave you feeling like a stuffed ravioli, perfect for a midday feast but perhaps too much for late-night dining.

In summary, Lil Ragú offers delicious food and a charming, if chilly, atmosphere. Just remember to bundle up and maybe consider a lunchtime reservation to fully enjoy the rich dishes without feeling...