PREGO: Ponsonby’s favourite ‘something for everyone’ place, Prego, has recently upped its game.
Like many that have grown up in Ponsonby or surrounds, I have been going to Prego my whole life. Whether it’s been family dinners or friend’s birthdays, Prego has always been a regular haunt and a joy to visit. However I had stopped going so regularly in recent years after becoming a vegan as the options were slim, if at all. Recently though, Prego has introduced a completely plant-based menu. In retrospect, this menu probably should’ve been added a while ago… but nevertheless we can celebrate it now. Better late than never (not to be cliche).
I’d heard the rumours, so after a long drought from dining there, I visited with a group of friends to see what was newly on offer. From my time away, I had forgotten just how loved Prego is and found myself surprised by its heaving Monday night crowd. Busy as ever, stepping into the restaurant felt like stepping back into the bustling weekend swing of things.
Once seated, we promptly ordered the Pomodori and Pane Ciabatta to start, Spaghetti, Rigatoni, Risotto Al Funghi and Margherita Pizza as mains and a Verde salad on the side. We all agreed that trying one thing each just wasn’t enough and shared. As we immersed ourselves in savouring our plates, we feasted in silence.
Each of us carefully rating the dishes in order of most favourite, we reached an overall consensus that the rigatoni stood out. Reminding me of a pasta dish my mum makes, not only were the flavours beautifully on point, the dish felt like home.
The risotto had a rich umami flavour but was by no means too intense. While in contrast, the spaghetti was simple, subtle and a tasty bite to eat. We all agreed the pizza was a good classic well done and suitable for those less inclined to branch out. I’m a sucker for finishing on a salad and this one perfectly complemented the richness of the dishes paired.
While everything was wonderful, the Pomodori was my favourite - medley tomatoes, confit garlic, basil, EVOO, white balsamic and grilled ciabatta. If you know me, this being my favourite is a no brainer considering my lifelong borderline vinegar addiction. Simple but effective, this dish was all about quality produce. So good that I truly believe it could convert a tomato sceptic.
Prego’s menu in its essence has always appealed to wide audiences, and this menu continues to do the same. World famous in central Auckland for their year after year classics that rarely - if ever - change, the introduction of their dedicated vegan menu goes to show that change IS indeed possible. (Sofia Roger Williams)
226 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 3095.www.prego.co.nz
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