We've enjoyed the great atmosphere and many authentic Italian meals at Nicolini's, meals just like Nonna would have made! We've celebrated special occasions and milestones, birthday's graduation and catching up with family and friends.

I haven't been there for awhile but I look forward to trying out the new larger premises just around the corner on Blair Street, next time I'm in Wellington.

However I've been to the previous address in Courtney Place and I have very fond memories of how amazing the atmosphere was, buzzing and a whirlwind of activity. The noise of happy diner's talking and laughing and clinking of wine glasses and the clatter of pots and pans in the kitchen was palpable and at the end of the night the chef would come out and mingle with the diner's, many who have probably been coming there for years. That's what I love about Nicolini's. It's like live theatre, it's rustic, it's unpretentious and authentic. It's the essence of Italian hospitality. It's more than food, it's an experience and the highlight of any occasion.

The tables were set with traditional red and white check table cloths and it was dimly lit and romantic, with candles flickering in old Chianti wine bottles. It's really not hard to imagine that you were somewhere in Italy.

From the moment you walk in the service is warm and welcoming, so here's a very special thank you to the wonderful front of house staff who ensure your dining experience is seamless and enjoyable while working in a whirlwind of activity but remaining calm and focused. Their knowledge of the menu and wine list and their recommendations is really appreciated. While you are waiting for your meal you're offered appetizers and drinks from the bar, antipasti, bruschetta, and garlic bread.

Nicolini's has a proud reputation of setting a high standard and are known as the benchmark for authentic Italian food in Wellington and the restaurant is always packed.

My favourite dish is the Lamb Shanks, slow cooked to perfection, in an age old Napolitan recipe, passed down from generation to generation-from Nonna to Nonna. The shanks were gelatinous and succulent. Tender and mouthwatering New Zealand lamb ready to fall off the bone.

Usually we share a variety of pasta dishes among us eagerly tasting each dish with excitement and anticipation. Some of the most memorable and favourite pasta dishes that come to mind were:

*Fettuccine Puttanesca, has a bold savory flavour with a prominent salty briny taste from the anchovies, olives and capers with a tangy tomato base, garlic and slight spice from the chilli.

*Lasagne al ragu Bolognese, rich and creamy, meaty and deeply flavourful from the slow cooking process with herbs and spices allowing the complex flavours to develop, with a subtle sweetness.

*Chicken and Blue Cheese Ravioli, rich and creamy and velvety texture with a pronounced tangy salty flavour of the blue cheese, balanced by the savory taste of the chicken, with hint of garlic and herbs.

*Chicken Tortellini with Mushrooms, rich and creamy combination of cheesy pasta pockets filled with chicken, enveloped in a savory, earthy mushroom sauce with a slighty umami flavour

Each accompanying sauce is different and has it own defining characteristics, but all are lovingly prepared, with layers of flavour, well seasoned and balanced. The taste is rich and harmonious as it lingers on your palate. The sauce is crafted to carry the flavour and to elevate and enhance the characteristic of each dish.

The Garlic Mussels and Calamari and The Fish of the Day (Snapper) were plump, juicy and delicious, locally sourced and presented at the peak of freshness, deftly seasoned with restraint to highlight the star of the show without overpowering the delicate flavour profile.

"When in Rome, do as the Romans do"

Traditional Italian desserts are famously decadent and indulgent. Tiramisu is my favourite dessert because it has the rich combination of everything I love in a cake, espresso coffee, alcohol, chocolate, mascarpone and cream.......

Buon Appetito