As the founder and owner-operator of Bossi, Jenna Carter has built one of Auckland’s most beloved dining destinations on the foundations of heritage, precision and heartfelt hospitality.
Raised in a large Italian family and inspired by generations spent cooking alongside her Nonna in Northern Italy, Jenna brings an innate understanding of ritual and experience to everything she does.
Since opening Bossi in 2021, her vision of delivering an authentic, premium Italian experience – grounded in tradition yet executed to a world-class standard – has defined its success. Here, she shares the pieces, rituals and inspirations that shape her life both inside and outside the restaurant.
Arozen Diffuser – Arozen
$231
Obsessed with this! Not only do they look incredibly chic in the home, but you can set them to diffuse from your phone so your home is smelling amazing for when you get home. The little oil scents last forever and I love how they are all inspired from famous hotels from around the world.
DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro – Dr Dennis Gross
$782
It takes just 3mins to do its thing and has become a relaxing part of my night time routine. Love that it’s so quick and with 3 different settings.
Scampi Risotto – Bossi
On the menu since day one and my number 1 go to. Every time I eat it, it takes me straight back to Nonnas kitchen and I’m right there making it with her.
Campofiorin Rosso del Veronese — Masi
$35–$50
The most delicious Italian red that’s always one my shelf and the perfect drop with a bowl of pasta. Masi is a renowned Italian vineyard in the Veneto region, where my Nonna & Nonno are both from.
Ophidia iPhone Case – Gucci
$600
The best little accessory, especially when I’m not using a bag that day and running between meetings – still carrying a little bit of lux.
Ricotta Soufflé Pancakes – St Heliers Bay Bistro
Look – I am not a sweet breakfast person EVER but I make an exception for these. My kids and I love to go here after a walk with the dogs, and these are to die for. Not too heavy or sweet, nails the breakfast brief for me.
Archies Thongs – Archies Footwear
$40
Never have I loved a pair of thongs so much (yes I am an Aussie) They are super comfortable and supportive. I carry a pair with me when I travel for shoe issue emergencies and have them in taupe, brown and black. I swear by them.
Virgin – Lorde
Recently having gone to her Auckland show, solely as a chaperone to my teenage daughter and friends, I didn’t know what I was expecting. I am now a big fan. What a talent and what a great role model for kiwi girls!
Grand-Emperik Sunglasses – DITA
$1,850
Dita grand emperik in brushed white gold cappuccino. I could not live without these. Definitely a splurge but definitely worth it. They go with everything!
Unreasonable Hospitality – Will Guidara
$35
I recently read Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara, and it really resonated with me. About going above and beyond to create unforgettable dining experiences — not just delivering a service, but genuinely making people feel seen and valued. Which is exactly what we try and do at Bossi every single service. For me, it reinforced how powerful thoughtful hospitality can be and how the smallest extra effort can leave the biggest impact.
Gaby Vanity Bag – Saint Laurent
$3,995
Such a gorgeous bag. It fits all the essentials for day / night. A classy little bag without being too loud or in your face.
Discover Bossi
Website: www.bossi.co.nz
Instagram: @bossi.co.nz
Location: 10 Commerce Street, Auckland CBD