Caffe' Centrale Italian Restaurant
An authentic Italian-owned restaurant serving traditional dishes, recognized by UNESCO for its Mediterranean diet.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Caffe' Centrale Italian Restaurant
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An authentic Italian-owned restaurant serving traditional dishes, recognized by UNESCO for its Mediterranean diet.
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended as the restaurant often gets busy, especially on weekends.
Try the Special Drink
Experience the unique 'Fernet with coke and ice' for a special beverage.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Italian
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+64 7 838 1013
Address
10 Alma Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand
Website
caffecentrale.co.nz/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Italian Ambiance
Transport yourself to 'little Italia' with a cozy, authentic trattoria feel and warm, welcoming staff.
Mouthwatering Pasta Dishes
Savor traditional Italian pasta, with highlights like Fettuccine Agli Scampi and Lasagna.
UNESCO Recognized Mediterranean Diet
Experience authentic Italian meals praised for heritage status by UNESCO, ensuring quality and tradition.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended as the restaurant often gets busy, especially on weekends.
Try the Special Drink
Experience the unique 'Fernet with coke and ice' for a special beverage.
Don't Skip Garlic Bread
The garlic butter is a must-try addition when ordering pizza.
Family-Friendly Fun
Kids are welcomed and might even receive free ice cream, making it great for families.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended as the restaurant often gets busy, especially on weekends.
Try the Special Drink
Experience the unique 'Fernet with coke and ice' for a special beverage.
Don't Skip Garlic Bread
The garlic butter is a must-try addition when ordering pizza.
Family-Friendly Fun
Kids are welcomed and might even receive free ice cream, making it great for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about the authentic Italian atmosphere and delicious, flavorful pasta and pizza dishes. The friendly service and generous portions also contribute to a highly recommended dining experience. Some minor points of concern include occasional service inconsistencies and the spartan exterior ambiance.
"The authentic pasta was outstanding, with every dish bursting with flavor. I especially loved the pizza, which was cooked perfectly.
The service was top-notch! We didn’t have a reservation during our dining experience, but the server made a table for us.
The generous portions were a nice surprise, leaving us fully satisfied.
The ambiance was warm and inviting, making it a great spot for both romantic dinners and gatherings with friends.
I highly recommend this restaurant for anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine, great service, and a lovely atmosphere."
Suzanne Vhie Tenorio
"I have done this place a huge injustice by living in Hamilton for 10 years without knowing it existed!!! The interior resembles a real Italian trattoria, and the ambience is authentic. The food was brilliant, and we tried traditional pizza, bolognese snd parmigiana. Gelato and tiramisu rounded up the wonderful experience. We will definitely be back!"
Aleksandra Pipek
"It was a great experience from start to finish. I had the Fettuccine Agli Scampi, and it was perfect. The prawns were massive, and there was a good amount of them. The rest of my table had the Lasagna and Gnocchi Alla Blolgnese. They were also great. This is my new favorite restaurant."
Katrina Brown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it's a family-friendly environment where kids are welcomed and might even get free ice cream.
It's advisable to book a table in advance as the restaurant can get quite busy.
Diners highly recommend the authentic pasta dishes, especially Fettuccine Agli Scampi, and pizzas.
While not explicitly detailed, the menu does show vegetarian and vegan options, and many pasta dishes can be adapted.
The interior resembles a real Italian trattoria, creating a cozy and authentic ambiance.
Try the 'Fernet with coke and ice' for a special and unique beverage experience.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
5 Best Italian Restaurants in Hamilton🥇
Caffe’ Centrale remains to be the only Italian-owned and operated Italian restaurant in Hamilton, New Zealand. Marco Scarpa is the head chef and owner while Alessandro Bressi is the gelato maker and second chef. Together the duo oversees the operation of the restaurant from the early morning quest for the freshest ingredients to the preparation and serving of their signature dishes.
The 6 Best Italian Restaurants in Hamilton [2025 ]
Awarded Heritage Status for the Mediterranean diet by UNESCO, Caffe Centrale is one of the top go-tos and best Italian restaurants in Hamilton. They serve irresistible traditional Italian meals prepared by Chef Marco Scarpa. The establishment itself is an Italian-owned and -run restaurant, so there’s no question everything is authentic.
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