Description:

Farina, a cherished Italian dining destination nestled on Ponsonby Road, owes its charm and culinary excellence to the vision and dedication of Sergio Maglione. More than a quarter-century ago, Sergio arrived in New Zealand with a youthful passion for sharing the authentic street food flavours of his beloved Italian hometown Napoli.

In late 2023, when a space adjacent to Farina became available, it presented a golden opportunity for expansion. The decision to grow was not just about increasing capacity but also about elevating the dining experience to new heights. The expansion was meticulously planned to build upon Farina's established reputation while enhancing its appeal with a revitalised menu and a more spacious, welcoming space.

In collaboration with the Farina team, we undertook a substantial renovation, resulting in a more expansive front dining room and a larger bar area where patrons can unwind and savor authentic 'Cucina Italiana'. The refurbishment also included a spacious prep kitchen and enhanced back-of-house facilities to streamline operations. Retaining Farina's essence, the restaurant maintains its signature open kitchen at the front and pizza bar at the rear, complemented by an interior featuring soft red hues, neutral tones, comfortable booth seating, and playful artworks.

By day, the space radiates a refreshing vibrancy, while by night, it transforms into an intimate and cozy setting—imbued with warmth and character, inviting patrons to relax at any hour. Amidst these updates, Farina's core remains steadfast. It continues to embody a lively Italian ambiance, where guests can delight in excellent cuisine and conviviality in a laid-back environment. Whether for a leisurely dinner with friends or a casual bite at the bar, visitors can anticipate the same genuine hospitality and outstanding service that define the Farina experience.

Designing Farina presented significant challenges, primarily stemming from the building's age and the integration of an adjacent tenancy. Overcoming these obstacles required meticulous onsite measurements, detailed shop drawings, and extensive hours dedicated to the project. A pivotal factor in its success was the careful reuse and adaptation of existing kitchen equipment, bar fixtures, lighting, and overhead shelving to fit seamlessly into the redesigned space. This approach not only ensured efficiency but also preserved elements of the restaurant's original charm while modernising its functionality.

Farina restaurant originally housed Hutchinson’s, founded in 1906 by George Hutchinson and his brothers. Hutchinson’s started by selling specialty and gourmet foods in local stores across Ponsonby, Newmarket, and Auckland City. During Farina’s renovation and the removal of the existing shopfront, original Hutchinson's lead lights were discovered. Preserving the original Hutchinson’s lead lights above Farina’s entrance is special because they serve as a direct link to the restaurant's rich history and origins. These lead lights symbolise craftsmanship and tradition, offering patrons a glimpse into the past while adding a unique historical ambiance to the dining experience at Farina.