Auckland is New Zealand's largest city and a vibrant metropolis set between two harbours, offering a unique blend of Pacific cultures, world-class dining, and easy access to stunning natural landscapes. Known as the 'City of Sails', it serves as New Zealand's main international gateway and commercial hub.
Auckland's dining scene reflects the city's extraordinary cultural diversity, with Pacific Rim cuisine standing at the forefront. The city's Pacific Island and Asian communities have created a vibrant street food culture, while the proximity to pristine waters means exceptional seafood is a constant highlight. New Zealand's world-class produce — from Bluff oysters to Canterbury lamb and Marlborough wine — elevates Auckland's fine dining to international standards.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Auckland.
Bluff Oysters
The world's finest oysters from the deep cold waters of Foveaux Strait, available fresh in Auckland restaurants during the May-August season
Where to try: Depot Eatery, Harbourside Ocean Bar, most fine dining restaurants
Price: NZD $4-6 each
Kumara (Sweet Potato)
New Zealand's beloved root vegetable prepared in dozens of ways; Māori kumara is richer and more flavourful than imported varieties
Where to try: Ahi restaurant, Orphans Kitchen, New World supermarkets
Price: NZD $10-18 as side dish
Paua (Abalone)
New Zealand's endemic giant abalone, a Māori delicacy with an intense oceanic flavour, often served in fritters or with butter
Where to try: High-end seafood restaurants; paua fritters at fish and chip shops
Price: NZD $18-28
Hangi
Traditional Māori cooking method using heated rocks in an underground pit, producing succulent slow-cooked meats and vegetables with a unique earthy flavour
Where to try: Otara Market (Saturday morning), Māori cultural events
Price: NZD $15-25
Fish and Chips
New Zealand's most beloved takeaway — battered snapper or tarakihi served with chips. Auckland's proximity to the sea ensures exceptionally fresh fish
Where to try: Any coastal suburb; The Fishmonger in Mission Bay is excellent
Price: NZD $10-20
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
The French Café
Consistently rated among Auckland's very best restaurants, The French Café offers an exquisite tasting menu showcasing New Zealand's finest seasonal ingredients prepared with classical French technique. Chef Simon Wright's kitchen has earned numerous awards and the restaurant is essential dining for serious food lovers.
Known for: Award-winning tasting menus with NZ seasonal produce
210 Symonds Street, Eden Terrace, Auckland 1010
Clooney
An intimate, design-forward fine dining restaurant offering creative contemporary cuisine in an elegant setting. Chef Tony Stewart crafts imaginative seasonal menus that push culinary boundaries while remaining deeply connected to New Zealand's exceptional produce.
Known for: Creative fine dining and innovative cocktail programme
33 Sale Street, Freemans Bay, Auckland 1010
Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill
Perched above the Ferry Building with breathtaking harbour views, Harbourside serves the finest New Zealand seafood in one of the city's most spectacular settings. The menu focuses on sustainable New Zealand fish, oysters, and shellfish alongside premium meats.
Known for: Premium New Zealand seafood with harbour views
Level 1, Ferry Building, 99 Quay Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar
Chef Al Brown's acclaimed no-reservations restaurant is one of Auckland's most beloved eating experiences, offering fresh New Zealand seafood and honest comfort food in a lively, communal setting. The raw bar featuring Bluff oysters and Cloudy Bay clams is unmissable.
Known for: Raw bar and New Zealand seafood in communal setting
86 Federal Street, Auckland CBD 1010
O'Connell Street Bistro
A beloved institution in Auckland's CBD, O'Connell Street Bistro has been delivering exceptional modern New Zealand cuisine for over two decades. The elegant bistro setting, outstanding wine list, and consistently superb food make it a perennial favourite for business lunches and special occasions.
Known for: Classic Auckland fine dining with exceptional wine list
3 O'Connell Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Ahi
Chef Ben Bayly's flagship restaurant in the Britomart precinct celebrates New Zealand's extraordinary food produce with a creative and deeply personal menu. The intimate dining room and exceptional service create a memorable experience showcasing kai Māori concepts.
Known for: Celebrating New Zealand produce with Māori kai influence
15 Galway Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
Baduzzi
Auckland's finest Italian restaurant brings the soul of Italy to the Wynyard Quarter waterfront. Chef Michael Dearth sources outstanding New Zealand ingredients and imports the finest Italian produce to create authentic, deeply satisfying Italian cuisine.
Known for: Artisanal Italian pasta and antipasto with NZ produce
21 Jellicoe Street, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland 1010
Orphans Kitchen
A Ponsonby institution with a fervent local following, Orphans Kitchen is committed to nose-to-tail and root-to-leaf cooking using organic and biodynamic producers. The relaxed, plant-filled dining room and natural wine list create an authentic neighbourhood restaurant experience.
Known for: Farm-to-table ethos with outstanding natural wine list
118 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Italian
SPQR
A Ponsonby Road fixture for over 30 years, SPQR has outlasted trends by delivering excellent Italian food, superb cocktails, and an unbeatable atmosphere. The all-day menu moves from brunch through to late-night pizza, and the outdoor terrace is the best spot on Ponsonby Road.
Known for: Ponsonby institution with wood-fired pizzas and cocktails
150 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Non Solo Pizza
A long-standing favourite on St Heliers Bay Road, Non Solo Pizza serves authentic Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas alongside excellent antipasto and pasta. The relaxed trattoria atmosphere and loyal local clientele make this a genuine Auckland neighbourhood gem.
Known for: Authentic Neapolitan woodfired pizza in relaxed setting
35 St Heliers Bay Road, St Heliers, Auckland 1071
Pasta e Cuore
A small, beloved pasta shop on Karangahape Road offering exceptional handmade fresh pasta to take home or eat in the small café. The simple concept focuses purely on the quality of the pasta and the depth of the sauces, resulting in some of the best Italian food in the city.
Known for: Auckland's finest fresh handmade pasta to eat in or take home
308 Karangahape Road, Newton, Auckland 1010
Japanese
Ebisu
The Britomart precinct's most elegant Japanese restaurant serves refined Japanese cuisine across an extensive menu of sushi, sashimi, robata grill items, and hot dishes. The sake and Japanese whisky selection is outstanding and the dining room is consistently buzzing.
Known for: Refined Japanese dining with excellent sake and whisky list
116-118 Quay Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
Azabu Parnell
This acclaimed restaurant brings the exciting Nikkei cuisine of Japan-meets-Peru to Auckland, offering spectacular ceviches, tiradito, and robata-grilled items in a beautiful dining room. The cocktail programme is among Auckland's very best.
Known for: Acclaimed Nikkei cuisine with world-class cocktails
26 Mackelvie Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021
Tanuki's Cave
A hidden gem beneath Victoria Street, Tanuki's Cave is an authentic Japanese izakaya serving excellent yakitori, sashimi, and Japanese bar snacks in an underground cave-like setting. The Japanese whisky and sake selection is outstanding and the atmosphere is wonderfully atmospheric.
Known for: Authentic Japanese izakaya atmosphere with excellent yakitori and whisky
319 Queen Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Various
SkyCity Food Trucks
The outdoor food truck hub at SkyCity brings together Auckland's best mobile food vendors offering an eclectic mix of cuisines in a lively setting adjacent to the Sky Tower. A great option for a casual, affordable meal in the CBD.
Known for: Casual street food in Auckland CBD with rotating vendors
86 Federal Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Federal Street Food Hall
The original Auckland CBD food hall concept on Federal Street offers a curated selection of independent food vendors serving everything from Japanese ramen to NZ lamb rolls. A popular lunchtime destination for CBD workers and visitors alike.
Known for: Diverse affordable lunch options in the heart of the CBD
90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Takapuna Night Market
The Takapuna Night Market transforms the car park near the beach into a vibrant street food destination on Thursday evenings. Around 30 stalls serve diverse Asian cuisine, New Zealand favourites, and international dishes at affordable prices.
Known for: Vibrant outdoor night market with diverse Asian and international street food
Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, Auckland 0622
American
Iguacu
A Ponsonby landmark for over 20 years, Iguacu serves hearty Brazilian and South American-inspired cuisine with a focus on premium meats and wood-fired cooking. The long communal tables and festive atmosphere make it a favourite for celebrations.
Known for: Brazilian churrasco grill and South American classics
269 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Tyler Street Garage
A Britomart institution housed in a converted heritage garage, Tyler Street serves excellent craft burgers, American BBQ, and an outstanding craft beer and cocktail list. The industrial-chic space is a great spot for a casual meal in the Britomart area.
Known for: Craft burgers and American BBQ in Britomart heritage garage
120 Quay Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
Contemporary Nz
The Grove
Consistently appearing on New Zealand's top restaurant lists, The Grove delivers elegant contemporary cuisine in a sophisticated heritage setting in the St Patrick's Square precinct. The seasonal menu showcases New Zealand's finest ingredients with European finesse.
Known for: Refined contemporary fine dining in heritage surroundings
St Patrick's Square, Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Pasture
Chef Ed Verner's Parnell restaurant has rapidly become one of Auckland's most talked-about fine dining experiences, offering a pure tasting menu built around fermentation, fire, and New Zealand's best producers. The intimate 16-seat space creates a uniquely personal dining experience.
Known for: Fermentation and fire-focused fine dining; one of NZ's most innovative restaurants
235 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052
Indian
Satya South Indian
Auckland's best South Indian restaurant has been satisfying curry cravings since 1992 with authentic dosas, idlis, and fragrant curries. The three Auckland locations are perpetually busy and the weekend lunch buffet is legendary.
Known for: Authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine with outstanding dosas
25 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
1947 Eatery
The best Indian restaurant in Auckland serves exceptional regional Indian cuisine that goes far beyond the standard curry house offering. The menu spans from Punjabi classics to coastal seafood dishes and the handmade breads from the tandoor are outstanding.
Known for: Regional Indian cuisine beyond the standard curry house
28 Lorne Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Modern Nz
The Sugar Club
Perched on Level 53 of the Sky Tower, The Sugar Club offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Auckland combined with exceptional modern cuisine by executive chef Jason van Dorsten. The pre-theatre tasting menus and views make this a quintessential Auckland special occasion restaurant.
Known for: Sky Tower dining with spectacular 360-degree Auckland views
Level 53, Sky Tower, Victoria Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Wynyard Quarter Waterfront Dining
A rotating selection of excellent café-restaurant options along the Wynyard Quarter waterfront precinct offers casual dining with harbour views. Several award-winning concepts in the area offering affordable, quality meals with waterfront ambience.
Known for: Casual waterfront dining in Auckland's newest dining precinct
Wynyard Quarter, Auckland Waterfront 1010
Bistro
Ponsonby Road Bistro
A neighbourhood staple on Ponsonby Road serving honest, well-executed modern bistro food in a comfortable setting. The relaxed vibe, competitive wine list, and consistent quality make this a go-to for locals and visitors exploring the Ponsonby precinct.
Known for: Reliable neighbourhood bistro with excellent value wine list
165 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Burgers
Burger Burger
Consistently voted Auckland's best burger joint, Burger Burger in Ponsonby and Takapuna has elevated the humble burger to an art form. Using freshly ground quality beef, brioche buns baked daily, and house-made condiments, these are burgers worth queuing for.
Known for: Auckland's best gourmet burgers with freshly ground beef
47 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Chinese
Chinoiserie
Auckland's best yum cha restaurant serves outstanding Cantonese dim sum and Hong Kong-style Chinese cuisine. The weekend yum cha service is an Auckland institution and the hand-made dumplings and BBQ pork bao are exceptional.
Known for: Auckland's best dim sum and authentic Cantonese cuisine
3-9 Kingston Street, Auckland CBD 1010
European
Amano
A Britomart favourite combining an outstanding artisan bakery with a sophisticated all-day café and restaurant. Amano's wood-fired oven produces exceptional breads, pizzas, and roasted meats, while the handmade pasta is some of the best in the city.
Known for: Artisan bakery and handmade pasta in Britomart heritage buildings
66-68 Tyler Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
Filipino
Nanam Auckland
Auckland's best Filipino restaurant celebrates the bold, vibrant flavours of Filipino cuisine with a modern Auckland sensibility. The menu moves from classic adobo and lechon to creative interpretations that showcase the diversity of this underrepresented cuisine.
Known for: Celebrating Filipino cuisine in Auckland's most vibrant precinct
Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
French
Kazuya
Chef Kazuya Yamauchi's quietly brilliant restaurant offers a unique fusion of French technique and Japanese sensibility in an intimate CBD setting. The 7 and 10-course tasting menus are meticulously crafted experiences and represent some of Auckland's finest dining.
Known for: Unique French-Japanese fine dining; one of Auckland's most intimate experiences
Level 1, 47 High Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Fusion
Hello Beasty
A vibrant, boisterous restaurant in the Viaduct Harbour area serving bold Pan-Asian flavours with a New Zealand accent. The sharing plates, dramatic cocktails, and buzzing atmosphere make Hello Beasty a reliably fun dining experience for groups.
Known for: Pan-Asian sharing plates with dramatic cocktails and vibrant atmosphere
56 Tyler Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
International Buffet
Eight Restaurant
The theatrical dining experience at Cordis Auckland features eight open kitchens representing different world cuisines including Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Mediterranean, and New Zealand, creating an extraordinary international buffet experience.
Known for: Eight live cooking stations representing world cuisines
Cordis Auckland, 83 Symonds Street, Auckland CBD 1010
Korean
Gochu
Auckland's most exciting Korean restaurant brings the bold, fermented flavours of Korea to the Britomart precinct. Chef Edward Lee's modern interpretation of Korean cuisine features shared plates, exceptional banchan, and a natural wine list that pairs perfectly with umami-rich dishes.
Known for: Modern Korean sharing plates with natural wines
Commerce Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
Lebanese
Gemmayze Street
The most atmospheric restaurant in the St Kevins Arcade complex on Karangahape Road, Gemmayze Street brings the flavours of Beirut to Auckland with extraordinary mezze, flatbreads, and slow-cooked meats. The rooftop terrace is one of the most romantic dining spots in Auckland.
Known for: Exceptional Lebanese mezze on Auckland's most vibrant street
St Kevin's Arcade, Karangahape Road, Auckland 1010
Mediterranean
Ortolana
Occupying one of the beautifully restored heritage buildings in the Britomart precinct, Ortolana is a vegetable-focused all-day restaurant with a gorgeous covered courtyard. The seasonal menu draws on Mediterranean influences and features outstanding New Zealand produce.
Known for: Vegetable-forward Mediterranean cuisine in beautiful Britomart courtyard
33 Tyler Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
Mexican
Mexico Restaurant
Auckland's most popular Mexican restaurant chain has multiple locations across the city and serves vibrant, flavour-packed Mexican-inspired food alongside outstanding margaritas. The casual, lively atmosphere and generous portions make it a great choice for groups.
Known for: Vibrant Mexican flavours with Auckland's best margaritas
Corner of Lorne and Wellesley Streets, Auckland CBD 1010
Modern Nz Café
Woodpecker Hill
The landmark café in the Auckland Domain near the museum combines stunning garden views with excellent all-day café food. A perfect stop before or after visiting the Auckland Museum, the café serves outstanding brunch, lunch, and house-made baked goods.
Known for: Stunning Domain garden café combining great brunch with museum proximity
Auckland Domain, Parnell, Auckland 1010
Patisserie
Miann Chocolate Factory
Auckland's premier artisan chocolate atelier and dessert destination creates extraordinary hand-crafted chocolates, patisserie, and innovative dessert tasting menus. The High Street flagship is an essential stop for those with a sweet tooth.
Known for: Auckland's finest artisan chocolate and innovative dessert experiences
Seafarers Building, 52 Tyler Street, Auckland 1010
Plant
Little Bird Unbakery
New Zealand's pioneer of gourmet plant-based cuisine, Little Bird has multiple Auckland locations and offers creative raw, vegan, and plant-based food that satisfies even devoted omnivores. The organic produce menu changes seasonally and the baked goods are legendary.
Known for: Auckland's original gourmet plant-based and raw food destination
14 Williamson Ave, Ponsonby, Auckland 1021
Thai
Saan
The most authentic Thai restaurant in Auckland specialises in the bold, rustic flavours of Northern Thai cuisine - dishes rarely found outside Thailand itself. The fragrant curries, larb salads, and sai oua sausages create an education in this distinct regional cuisine.
Known for: Auckland's specialist Northern Thai restaurant with rare regional dishes
160 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Food tours & tastings in Auckland
Eat your way through Auckland with a guide.
Browse food experiences in AucklandWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Hangi kai
Traditional Māori earth-oven cooked meats and vegetables
Find it at: Otara Flea Market, Saturday mornings
Pacific Island food
Samoan chop suey, Tongan umu-cooked meats, Niuean dishes
Find it at: Otara Flea Market, various Pacific Island churches and events
Asian food truck fare
Rotating selection of Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese dishes
Find it at: SkyCity Food Trucks, Takapuna Night Market (Thu)
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
La Cigale French Market
Auckland's most beloved market with French-inspired produce, artisan goods, and superb café
Hours: Saturday 8AM-1PM, Sunday 8AM-1:30PM
Otara Flea Market
Vibrant Pacific community market with ethnic food, produce, and crafts
Hours: Saturday 6AM-12PM
Grey Lynn Farmers Market
Excellent local produce market in a charming inner-city park
Hours: Saturday 8AM-12PM
Clevedon Village Farmers Market
Outstanding rural market 45 minutes from Auckland with exceptional artisan produce
Hours: Sunday 8:30AM-12:30PM
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Auckland restaurants are typically busy from 7PM Thursday-Saturday; book ahead
No-reservations restaurants like Depot require patience but are worth the wait
Auckland has outstanding Asian cuisine reflecting its diverse Pacific population
Ponsonby Road is best explored by foot; drive to Parnell for fine dining
Service charges are not automatically added in Auckland; round up the bill or tip 10% for excellent service
- Vegetarian
- Well catered for across Auckland; Little Bird Unbakery is outstanding; Satya for Indian vegetarian
- Halal
- Good selection in Otara, Manukau, and Henderson; Islamic Food Authority certified restaurants marked online
- Gluten free
- Generally well accommodated; inform staff when booking; most restaurants have GF options
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | NZD $12-20 per meal | Food courts, food trucks, takeaway fish and chips, bakeries, and affordable Asian restaurants |
| Mid-range | NZD $35-60 per meal | Neighbourhood bistros and mid-range restaurants with table service and wine |
| Upscale | NZD $90-200+ per person | Auckland's fine dining restaurants offering tasting menus and premium wine pairings |