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The Beginning: From Naples to New Zealand
More than 25 years ago, Sergio Maglione arrived in New Zealand as a young pizza chef from Naples, Italy. With a strong passion for authentic Italian cuisine, he worked as a chef and restaurateur, eventually becoming co-owner of Toto Restaurant.
In 2014, he opened Farina, a restaurant designed to showcase genuine Italian street food, handmade pasta, and Neapolitan wood-fired pizza in a modern setting. The name “Farina” (Italian for “flour”) reflects the importance of high-quality ingredients in Italian cooking, particularly for pizza and pasta.
Farina quickly established itself as a popular local restaurant, offering a lively atmosphere where guests can enjoy:
- -Authentic Neapolitan pizzas
- -Handmade pasta and contemporary Italian dishes
- -Italian and local wines, cocktails, and beer on tap
With a mix of locals and visitors, Farina has become known for its relaxed yet energetic dining experience.
2016: International Recognition
In 2016, Farina received certification from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), an international organization that preserves the tradition of true Neapolitan pizza. This certification is granted only to restaurants that meet strict requirements in ingredients, preparation, and cooking methods. Farina is one of just three certified pizzerias in New Zealand (member number 592).
The Dining Experience
Farina’s layout and design provided an interactive and social dining experience, featuring:
- An open kitchen and rear pizza bar, allowing guests to see dishes being prepared
- A spacious dining area with communal tables and counter seating
- A full bar with a selection of Italian and local wines, cocktails, and beer on tap
The combination of quick service for lunch and a full menu for leisurely dining made Farina a versatile choice for any occasion.
2024: Expansion and Renovation
In early 2024, Farina underwent a two-month renovation and expansion, reopening on March 26th with a larger, redesigned space.
The renovation aimed to
- Enhance the dining experience with a larger front dining room and expanded bar area
- Improve kitchen operations with a larger prep kitchen and upgraded back of house
- Retain the original open kitchen and pizza bar, preserving the restaurant’s well-known atmosphere
The new interior design introduces a lighter, modern aesthetic, featuring:
- Soft terracotta reds and neutral tones
- Comfortable high and low seating for both dining and bar areas
- Playful artwork and upholstery for a relaxed and inviting feel
- Adjustable lighting that creates a bright, airy space by day and a warmer ambiance at night
During the renovation, a set of original stained-glass windows from 1882 was discovered. These have been carefully restored and now serve as a feature in the new dining area, adding a historical element to the space.
Farina Today
With its refreshed space and commitment to authentic Italian cuisine, Farina remains a key dining destination on Ponsonby Road.
The combination of traditional techniques, high-quality ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere continues to define the restaurant. Whether visiting for a quick meal, a long dinner, or a drink at the bar, guests can enjoy a contemporary Cucina Italiana experience in a lively and relaxed setting.
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