Pici is the pasta bar that stole Auckland’s heart, one silky cacio e pepe at a time. Tucked in charming St. Kevin’s Arcade, this petite spot keeps it simple, yet sensational — fresh handmade pastas, a few antipasti, great wines, and that’s it. The namesake pici (hand-rolled spaghetti) is a must-try, perfectly al dente and utterly comforting. Other hits include the rigatoni, pork & fennel sausage ragu, which practically became an institution overnight, and stracciatella with whatever seasonal twist they’ve devised. The space is tight and lively, with diners spilling into the arcade.