Francesca's Italian Kitchen Wanaka

28/07/2026

Experience the simple pleasure of our wood-fired pizzas at Francesca.

Crafted with carefully selected ingredients and cooked over an open flame, each pizza is a celebration of authentic Italian tradition, best enjoyed with good company and a glass of wine.

25/07/2026

Come sit with us at Francesca.

Slow down, share a meal, pour another glass, and enjoy the simple pleasure of good food and great company. From house-made pasta to woodfired pizza, every dish is made to be shared around the table.

We’ll save you a seat.

23/07/2026

It’s been a wild few weeks celebrating our Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition with our incredible team.

A huge thank you to every member of our team. This recognition belongs to all of you.

We’re also so proud and happy for everyone in the Wānaka community. This recognition shines a light on our town, its people, and the incredible hospitality scene we’re all building together.

Here’s to our team, our guests, and the amazing Wānaka community.

Much love,
Francesca team

13/07/2026

At Francesca, we celebrate the simple beauty of Italian food through handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal ingredients sourced from the incredible producers of Central Otago.

Located in the heart of Wānaka, Francesca is a place to slow down, share stories, and enjoy honest Italian cooking with a local twist.

30/06/2026

We’re incredibly proud and grateful to be recognised with a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand.

This achievement belongs to every single person behind Francesca. Thank you to our amazing front and back of house team, whose work make this possible every day.

A special thank you to our Head Chef, Lucas, and the entire kitchen team for their relentless commitment to excellence, creativity, and showcasing the incredible produce of our region.

To all of our local farmers, growers, producers, and suppliers—thank you for trusting us with your exceptional ingredients. Your hard work is at the heart of every dish we serve.

We’re honoured to be part of a community that has helped make Wānaka and Central Otago a true culinary destination. This recognition is yours as much as it is ours.

Thank you to everyone who has dined with us and supported our journey. Here’s to continuing to celebrate local, seasonal food and the people who make it all possible. ❤️

Welcome to our Italian restaurant with a Wānaka spin. Explore our menu now, then come sit at the table or nab your Wānaka pasta or wood-fired pizza to go. Dinner’s up.

04/06/2026

Truffle season is a celebration of people, place, and connection.

From there, the journey continues to Francesca, where these seasonal truffles find their way onto our Cacio e Pepe, transforming a simple classic into something truly special.

Alongside our friends at Mirani, this experience is a reminder that great hospitality is built on community. Farmers, growers, makers, chefs, and storytellers all working together, connected by a shared respect for the land and the people who nurture it.

Come and enjoy our seasonal Truffle Cacio e Pepe while the season lasts.

04/06/2026

Truffle season is a celebration of people, place, and connection.

From there, the journey continues to Francesca, where these seasonal truffles find their way onto our Cacio e Pepe, transforming a simple classic into something truly special.

Alongside our friends at Mirani, this experience is a reminder that great hospitality is built on community.

Farmers, growers, makers, chefs, and storytellers all working together, connected by a shared respect for the land and the people who nurture it.

Come and enjoy our seasonal Truffle Cacio e Pepe while the season lasts.

26/05/2026

At Francesca, we’re proud to pour New Zealand wines by Jenny Dobson.

The perfect pairing alongside our handmade pastas or any of our woodfire pizzas, bringing together thoughtful food, good wine, and long-table moments.

Photo Credits:

25/05/2026

From the rhythm behind the line to the experience at the table

Meet Chef Brenna, originally from the US, Brenna brings a refined attention to detail and deep respect for the craft, ensuring every dish leaves the pass with intention and perfection.

Brenna’s presence is reflected in every service.