The best restaurants in Auckland
Explore Auckland’s city by following Our guide on the top eateries in Auckland with everything from expensive dining to affordable meals
The most renowned eateries in Auckland are part of a gastronomic scene that is reminiscent of an enthusiastic twentysomething who’s recently entered the peak of their lives. A huge wave of immigration–primarily from Asia–has blown the culinary scene wide open, meaning $10 Sichuan spicy dumpling joints cosy up next to innovative high-end, ten-course tasting-menu joints.
The city’s inner-city neighborhood of Ponsonby is full of real treasures If you’re looking for activities to satisfy your foodie side; there’s several top-quality eateries in Britomart and in the vicinity of where Sky Tower. Sky Tower and, if you’re looking for authentic Asian food The enclaves of Dominion Road (largely Chinese) and Sandringham (Indian) cannot be defeated.
The top restaurants in Auckland
Why do you want to go? Masu suits anyone who is a fan of Japanese tastes, but is open to new interpretations of the subject. Black cod is a popular choice, as are the grilled cutlets of lamb and crayfish-spiky miso tacos flutter through the doors. The menu informs you that the food is top-quality Robata-style Japanese sharing plates made with the finest quality of New Zealand produce, but the friendly and professional service, massive space, and the kick-ass design that includes the theater of a large open kitchen – will make you question whether you’re located in New York, London or Melbourne.
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What exactly is it? An exciting, modern and upscale Lebanese eatery located in a wonderful arcade with a rich history.
Why do you want to go? Gemmayze Street is ideal for those who enjoy sharing food that is packed with strong Middle Eastern flavours. It’s as good for a great date as it is for a large groups, plates such as the octopus served with pickled chilli coriander, pomegranate, coriander and Squid Ink or duck served with red cabbage, fig and onion will astonish you.
What exactly is it? A 10-course dining experience for those who are obsessed with great food. A memorable Auckland evening that you will never forget.
Why should you attend? There are only 25 seats, and there’s only one choice: the ten-course degustation, served from the chef’s own kitchen. There will be a variety of flavor and texture that unlike anything else but with a focus on traditional techniques such as cooking over an open flame, fermentation and picking, as well as conserving. Ed as well as Laura Verner love connecting land ocean, producer, and eatery for an all-round food lover’s dream.
What’s the deal? A must-visit dumpling places Mr Zhou’s is the place to go suitable for all ages, from hipsters to large families. Be sure to have a side order of their delicious cucumber salad when you are filling up your packages of meat or tofu.
What’s the reason? The battle over dumplings has been raging for several years in Auckland but restaurants like Mr Zhou’s are a favorite for a long time (Barilla as well as Eden Noodles are also very well-known just a few street away along Dominion Road – Auckland’s Asian food capital). The pleasure of eating 12 dumplings of pork and fennel bathed in the perfect mixture of soy, black vinegar and chilli is an iconic inexpensive and enjoyable Auckland experience.
