15 perfect restaurants in Auckland, New Zealand
Welcome to the culinary paradise of Auckland, where the food scene will make your taste buds sing like a drunken choir at a wedding. Brace yourself for a gastronomic adventure as we unveil the 15 best restaurants. From the hole-in-the-wall joint serving up heavenly dumplings to the swanky gourmet hub where even the chefs' aprons have a fancier dress code than your entire wardrobe - prepare to have your mind (and stomach) blown. Grab your stretchy pants and embark on this mouthwatering journey through the culinary wonders of Auckland.
Save destination1. Sidart
283 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Welcome to Sidart in Auckland – a delightful culinary gem for those seeking exquisite flavors and an experience that will make your taste buds jump with joy! Here, the chef and his team create culinary masterpieces that will leave you saying, "I didn't even know it was possible for food to taste this good!" Step into this charming restaurant and prepare to be dazzled by the imaginative and playful dishes that make you question whether you've stumbled into a Michelin star restaurant or Willy Wonka's flavor factory. Sidart takes your palate on a rollercoaster ride, making you wonder if you’re eating avant-garde art or simply a dish that's too beautiful to devour. One thing's for sure, those seeking predictability in flavor will find themselves deliciously derailed. Be warned, though, that Sidart's offerings might prompt some serious food envy amongst your dining companions. Each dish is crafted to evoke a mixture of admiration and hunger, leading to the ultimate dilemma of wanting to eat it and frame it at the same time. So, prepare your senses for an unforgettable dining experience at Sidart, where creativity meets culinary excellence in the most delightful and slightly fanciful way.
Learn more2. The Grove
Saint Patricks Square, Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Welcome to The Grove, Auckland's little oasis of nature amidst the concrete jungle, where trees proudly boast their green leafy attire and birds harmoniously sing...or rather squawk. This enchanting park is like a botanical buffet for plant enthusiasts, where you can take a leafy stroll or play hide-and-seek with the ever-elusive ducks that seem to believe they are the true rulers of this urban sanctuary. So, grab your walking shoes and brace yourself for a magical adventure that will leave you feeling refreshed, bird-crazed, and with an inexplicable craving for breadcrumbs.
Learn more3. Ortolana
33 Tyler Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Welcome to Auckland, where culinary delights await in every corner! If you're looking for a dining experience that combines elegance with a touch of quirkiness, Ortolana is the place to be. Nestled in a charming courtyard, this restaurant will have you feeling like you've stumbled upon a secret garden, complete with marvellous foliage and scrumptious dishes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. So, grab a seat, order some delectable treats, and be prepared to fall head over heels in love with this quirky little gem!
Learn more4. Soul Bar and Bistro
Corner of Lower Hobson Street and, Customs Street West, Auckland City, Auckland 1143, New Zealand
Welcome to Soul Bar and Bistro, Auckland's culinary gem that'll leave your taste buds begging for an encore! Nestled in the heart of Viaduct Harbour, this vibrant eatery combines exquisite cuisine with a lively atmosphere. Whether you're craving a succulent seafood feast that'll have you swimming in delight or a juicy steak that'll make your carnivorous instincts roar, Soul Bar and Bistro has it all, guaranteeing a dining experience that will make both your stomach and funny bone tickled pink!
Learn more5. Gusto at the Grand
90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Welcome to Gusto at the Grand, Auckland's culinary wonderland that offers your taste buds an exhilarating rollercoaster ride! Prepare to be dazzled by their eclectic menu, where gastronomic galaxies collide, creating a supernova of flavors that will send your mouth on a wild adventure. With a dash of sophistication and a pinch of whimsy, Gusto at the Grand guarantees an unforgettable dining experience that will make you wish you had an extra stomach just to try everything on the menu!
Learn more6. Amano
66 - 68, Tyler Street, Britomart Place, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Welcome to Amano, the foodie haven nestled in the heart of Auckland! This culinary gem is known for its scrumptious creations that will make your taste buds do the happy dance, so loosen your belt and get ready to indulge. From their delectable wood-fired pizzas with all the toppings your heart desires, to their melt-in-your-mouth pastries that are more addictive than your favorite Netflix series, Amano has all the ingredients for a gastronomic adventure you won't soon forget.
Learn more7. Cocoro
56a Brown Street, Ponsonby, Auckland 1021, New Zealand
Welcome to Cocoro in Auckland, where culinary delights and out-of-this-world flavors await your taste buds! This hidden gem takes traditional Japanese cuisine to a whole new level, leaving you in a state of umami-induced bliss. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure as you savor their exquisitely crafted dishes, leaving you wondering if you've unknowingly stumbled upon Japan itself, or just dreamed about it after one too many sake shots.
Learn more8. Cassia
90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Welcome to Cassia in Auckland, where the food is as vibrant as the atmosphere! This funky gem is known for its oh-so-trendy fusion of Indian and Middle Eastern flavors that will have your taste buds rejoicing like Bollywood dancers on a sugar rush. Brace yourself for an unforgettable culinary adventure, complete with spiced delights, imaginative cocktails, and a décor that will make you wonder if you accidentally stepped into Aladdin's cave.
Learn more9. Depot
86 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Tucked away in the heart of Auckland lies Depot, the culinary wonderland that promises a food adventure like no other. Once you step foot inside, you'll feel like a gastronomic explorer embarking on a whimsical journey. This charming eatery is the ultimate destination for those seeking extraordinary flavors, quirky dishes, and the chance to unleash their inner foodie.
Learn more10. Euro
Shed 22 Princes Wharf, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Welcome to Euro in Auckland, where you'll find a delightful fusion of European comfort and Kiwi charm. As you step inside, be prepared to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you saying, "Pass me another croissant, I never want to leave!" But don't worry, you won't have to twist your tongue in knots trying to pronounce the dishes because their friendly staff won't judge you when you ask for the "cheeseburger with a fancy French name." Situated in the heart of the city, Euro brings you the sophistication of Europe without the hassle of international travel. Here, indulgence knows no boundaries, from the sensational cocktails that will make you forget where your passport is, to the mouthwatering delicacies that might cause you to consider skipping dessert so you can order seconds of everything else. If you're craving a taste of Europe but can't quite afford the airfare, Euro is your magical teleportation device (mind the local exchange rate though). With its elegant and chic ambiance, Euro provides the perfect setting for a glamorous evening or a classy business lunch. Whether you're dreaming of a rendezvous with your favorite European dish, a romantic escape from reality, or simply an opportunity to impress your traveling buddies with your sophisticated palate, Euro promises to charm you with its culinary wizardry and contagious whimsical atmosphere. So grab your passport (or just those sandals) and prepare to satisfy your wanderlust without the jetlag.
Learn more11. Ostro
52 Tyler Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Welcome to Ostro, the Auckland restaurant located on Britomart's Tyler Street! This lively hotspot boasts a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for those who want to see and be seen. Sink your teeth into their sumptuous dishes, carefully crafted with a dash of creativity and a pinch of culinary magic, leaving you wondering if unicorns are secretly running this joint! Step inside Ostro and prepare to be mesmerized by their elegant decor, which simultaneously screams "simplicity" and "fancy AF." The stunning floor-to-ceiling windows offer a mesmerizing view of the bustling city, almost making you forget that you're paying a small fortune for a plate of Instagrammable food. But hey, who needs savings when you have a beautifully plated dessert that looks like it could earn a Michelin star for its impeccable presentation? With their incredibly attentive staff, you'll feel like you're the star of your own culinary reality show. They're skillfully trained in the art of food-related small talk, so regardless of whether it's a casual catch-up or a momentous occasion, they've got your chit-chat needs covered. So, brush up on your Wayne's World quotes and prepare for an evening of great food, amazing views, and conversations that will make you question if Auckland has secretly transported you to another dimension.
Learn more12. Baduzzi
10/26 Jellicoe Street, North Wharf, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Nestled in the heart of Auckland, Baduzzi stands as a culinary extravaganza that could make even nonnas reconsider their family recipes. This Italian gem will transport you to the land of pasta and passion, where plates overflow with love and bellies burst with satisfaction. The chefs at Baduzzi sprinkle magic on every dish, resulting in flavor combinations that will make your tongue do a happy dance, while your waistline might silently weep in the background.
Learn more13. Spice Alley
78 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Nestled in the heart of Auckland, like a spice-scented labyrinth waiting to be explored, lies the vibrant Spice Alley. Picture a culinary wonderland where alleys intertwine like a complex recipe, tempting your taste buds to embark on a spicy adventure. With an array of authentic Asian eateries vying for attention, this alley is the perfect spot to ignite your senses and forget about any future gym memberships.
Learn more14. Cibo
91 Saint Georges Bay Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand
Welcome to Cibo, where Auckland’s culinary scene meets wit and charm. Nestled in the heart of the city, this vibrant eatery will tantalize your taste buds while leaving your funny bone in stitches. The innovative menu boasts fusion dishes that could start a global identity crisis, like the Kiwi-Taco Pizza, oozing with delicious confusion. So, brace yourself for a dining experience that will have you laughing, crying (with joy), and wondering if you accidentally stumbled into a comedy club.
Learn more15. Azabu
26 Ponsonby Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Welcome to Azabu, a little slice of Japan in the heart of Auckland! This culinary oasis is like stepping into a Tardis, where the cozy interiors whisk you away to the bustling streets of Tokyo. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you saying "sayonara" to bland meals forever!
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Auckland, New Zealand by plane is to fly into Auckland Airport, which is the largest airport in the country with direct flights from cities all over the world.
Car
If driving, the best way to get to Auckland, New Zealand is by taking State Highway 1, which runs from both the north and south of the country and passes through Auckland.
Train
There are no direct trains to Auckland, New Zealand as the city does not have a train station. However, you can take a train to cities such as Hamilton or Wellington and then take a bus or plane to get to Auckland.
Boat
While Auckland is a coastal city with a busy port, the best way to arrive by boat would be to take a cruise to New Zealand and dock at the Port of Auckland.
Bus
The best way to get to Auckland, New Zealand by bus is to take a long haul bus such as the InterCity from major cities such as Wellington or Christchurch.