Macaroni and more: A new addition to the F&B lineup at Central’s Tai Kwun, PAZTA is a breezy alfresco spot specializing in regional Italian fare.

Look & Feel: Mimicking the casual eateries that line the piazzas of every town in Italy, PAZTA is a laid-back eatery boasting indoor seating, alfresco tables in the Tai Kwun courtyard, and a buzzy ambiance. Expect low-key outdoor table setups under huge umbrellas, French windows leading into the main dining room that add an indoor-outdoor feel, and not too much fuss and fanfare.

On the Menu: At PAZTA, diners can expect authentic, classic Italian fare from all across the country, including specialties from Venice, Bologna, Rome, and Sardinia. And, of course, plenty of pizza and pasta. Best of all, all the dishes are laced with quality Italian ingredients flown in from the motherland.

Sink your teeth into a doughy Pizzette Margherita ($90), sample three types of battered zucchini flowers with the Tris di Fiori di Zucca ($90), and treat yourself to one of ten pasta dishes, including the Pappardelle al Cinghiale e Olive Nere (pappardelle pasta with slow-cooked wild boar and black olives; $150). Dining as a duo and have two raging appetites to full? Order up the Il Ghiottone ($390) a heaping appetizer platter featuring a range of hot and cold signature starters as well as golden sage, Parma ham, Tuscan pâté, beef carpaccio, and more). When you’re done, sate your sweet tooth with a made-to-order Espresso Tiramisu ($80).

PAZTA pairs its food with an equally Italian-influenced drinks list. Pick from over 50 fine Italian wines, or perhaps try a signature craft cocktail like the punchy Paper Plane ($100), a mix of bourbon, amaro, Campari, and citrus or the refreshing Foresta ($100) which blends green bitters, Amaro Montenegro, and grapefruit soda.

Great For: Lingering lunches, aperitivos, and casual date nights.

FYI: Alongside its a la carte menu, PAZTA offers a host of specials, including a weekday lunch set ($140) and dinner set ($230); an all-day kids’ menu; an Italian-style afternoon tea with 13 sweet and savory treats ($180); a happy hour ($50-$70); and an Aperitivo Tuesday Treat with a complimentary antipasti buffet.

Check out Hong Kong’s newest restaurants and bars here.

This writeup is a news piece and was not based on a restaurant visit. The Loop HK will update this post once we’ve visited in person.