Our Story
ABOUT FRAN’S KITCHEN
Francesca’s Italian Kitchen, Wanaka, is now under the care of husband and wife team Kaalene and Allan. For both, good food, wine, generosity and hospitality are cornerstone to life’s meaning and pleasures.
Kaalene is a first-generation New Zealander whose family harks from the Adriatic island of Korcula, Croatia ,once long held under Venetian rule and where Italian traditions and traits live on.
Allan descends straight from the mountainous Scottish Highlands with his accent in tow.
After two decades abroad and as parents to young twin boys, Gabrijel and Joźeph, it was the Wanaka lifestyle, community spirit and spectacular outdoors that drew them to the area, upping sticks and settling in Wanaka in 2014.
Having studied at Otago University, Kaalene felt right at home. For Allan, the landscape and lakes are reminiscent of his Scottish home town, so he too immediately felt at home.
And that’s the homely welcome you’ll find at the restaurant.. With Francesca’s, Kaalene and Allan’s intention is to build on the much-loved foundation and popular formula created by Fran and James – a welcoming family and community-minded restaurant offering great Italian food and an Italian inspired dining table for locals and visitors alike.
Come and take a seat…
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What time are you open?
We open every day of the week, from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, and then from 5:00pm to 10:00pm. Our last sitting is for 8:45pm.
Are you child friendly?
Can I book an event at Francesca's Italian Kitchen?
Yes, you can. We have an events & celebrations section where you can find an example of our set menus which change seasonally and an indication of the cost involved. We have both adult and children options. We can host up to 50 people at an event or celebration. Please feel free to call us or email us with any special requests.
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Do you have set menus?
Yes, we do. If you have a group of above 11 people, we encourage you to use them.
Do you offer vegan, gluten free &vegetarian?
Yes, we do. We have options for all! That said, although best efforts are made, food is prepared where gluten and allergens may be present. Please feel free to discuss any and all dietary requirements with us on arrival so staff know your specific needs.
Do you follow all government health mandates?
VISIT FRANCESCA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN
Enjoy the exciting flavours, aromas and hospitality of Italy, right here in Wanaka.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
In winter they have these little garden shed things just fit for two outside. Super cozy and somehow makes the experience extra special. All the staff here are just amazing, super friendly yet also remaining professional at the same time. To follow through with the high standards, every dish we had, was just so good! If you are staying in Wanaka, make sure you dine here at least once.
SLADE JAMES
The potato skin is a MUST order. It’s the BEST and become the highlight of our trip in Wanaka. No other restaurant can beat that. Please order the potato skin and join my cult 😂 another thing that catch me is the wee green house hut(?) Its outside the restaurant but so cute and so private. It’s not cold at all, they provide hotties and heater. Very very highly recommended. Will definitely come back.
OLIVIA VICTORIUS
A flawless experience. It was really easy to book a table and all the staff were very friendly and professional. I ordered some polenta fries for starters, margarita pizza for my main and the tiramisu for dessert. The fries were crispy and delicious, the pizza had an awesome crust and the tiramisù was smooth and creamy. Overall everything was great.
ANTHONY KUTOVOY
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
In winter they have these little garden shed things just fit for two outside. Super cozy and somehow makes the experience extra special. All the staff here are just amazing, super friendly yet also remaining professional at the same time. To follow through with the high standards, every dish we had, was just so good! If you are staying in Wanaka, make sure you dine here at least once.
SLADE JAMES
The potato skin is a MUST order. It’s the BEST and become the highlight of our trip in Wanaka. No other restaurant can beat that. Please order the potato skin and join my cult 😂 another thing that catch me is the wee green house hut(?) Its outside the restaurant but so cute and so private. It’s not cold at all, they provide hotties and heater. Very very highly recommended. Will definitely come back.
OLIVIA VICTORIUS
A flawless experience. It was really easy to book a table and all the staff were very friendly and professional. I ordered some polenta fries for starters, margarita pizza for my main and the tiramisu for dessert. The fries were crispy and delicious, the pizza had an awesome crust and the tiramisù was smooth and creamy. Overall everything was great.
ANTHONY KUTOVOY
