Auckland Destinations
Amano
Any member of the Savor group has got to be a sure bet, and this waterfront eatery certainly is. Both the Britomart venue and the all-day, largely Italian menu measure up – and the service doesn’t let them down. Agreeably suited to groups both large and petite.
66 Tyler St, Britomart, CBD, Auckland /
09 394 1416 /
savor.co.nz/amano
![Cuisine Favourite Destination](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_favorite-black.png)
Andiamo
This eponymous spot serves nearly every pizza permutation you could possibly think of (there are even two sweet ones). And it has a lush garden setting. Sides, salads and meat or fish mains round it out nicely. Go from noon until nighttime, seven days a week.
194 Jervois Rd, Herne Bay, Auckland /
09 378 7811 /
andiamoeatery.co.nz
![Cuisine Global Destination](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_global-black.png)
Atelier
Get along to this cosy, chic K’Rd establishment tout suite for oysters, charcuterie and vegetarian small plates all given the modern Gallic treatment. The atmosphere is convivial and the drinks menu is immense, so stay a while to soak it all up. There’s even a cheese board that partners Kiwi and French favourites.
292 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
027 269 9306 /
atelierkrd.co.nz
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Azabu
Behind that nondescript blue wall with a handwritten scrawl street-side is a room full of energy and equally lively flavours. The Japanese-Peruvian menu caters to many tastes and is one built for sharing. Azabi’s raw bar is a significant key feature.
26 Ponsonby Rd, Grey Lynn, Auckland /
09 320 5292 /
azabuponsonby.co.nz
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Bar Céleste
It calls itself a wine bar and neo-bistro. We say it’s truly smashing (consider the Smashburger and fries on its ever-changing, truly seasonal menu). The owners have stamped their ample Parisian and local experience on this, their latest lovely venture.
146B Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
021 579 874 /
barceleste.com
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Beau
Only the strongest survive on this patch, and Beau rightfully takes its place as a much-loved Three Lamps heavyweight. The customer always comes first, the menu is forever fresh and constantly changing, the wine list truly impressive. Community at its heart – we like.
265 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland /
09 218 5137 /
beauponsonby.co.nz
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Bossi
Authentic Italian with a contemporary twist is how the food is described but it’s also the welcome from the friendly team that is genuine. Pull up a seat at the marble bar for an aperitivo and then choose from traditional favourites executed superbly. Vegans and the ‘bambini’ are also catered for.
10 Commerce St, CBD, Auckland /
09 948 0906 /
bossi.co.nz
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Bracu
It doesn’t get much more Mediterranean than this. Set among 70 hectares of olive trees in the rolling Bombay Hills, you’ll find a commitment to relaxed fine-dining. They use locally-sourced and estate-grown ingredients, as showcased in the five-course dégustation menu: an offer you can’t refuse.
49 Main Rd, Bombay, Auckland /
09 236 1030 /
bracu.co.nz
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Bunga Raya
The surrounds may be modest but this place punches well above its weight in the kitchen. Few can achieve the flavour heights that this West Auckland shopping centre spot delivers with its kari kepala ikan (fish head curry). Enticing spices and flavours galore.
2A/3062 Great North Rd, New Lynn, Auckland
09 827 8666
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Cafe Hanoi
During its lengthy restaurant life in Britomart, Cafe Hanoi has weathered a change of address and some subtle menu shifts, too. But it’s never shifted its focus from true Vietnamese food with a French focus. Tofu so good it will convert any meat-eater.
27 Galway St, Britomart, CBD, Auckland /
09 302 3478 /
cafehanoi.co.nz
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Candela
Don’t miss the empanadas at this lively bar meets tapas-style eatery: the flaky pastry is heavenly and the slow-cooked meaty fillings taste like comfort. If you’re a fan of Spanish wines, this is your happy place. Iberian-inspired sharing plates will transport you bite-by-bite.
155 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
0210 261 4299 /
candelabar.co.nz
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Casita Miro
There’s a Mediterranean mood to the food at this vineyard restaurant where the emphasis is on shared dining and the vibe is social and casual. With the freshest ingredients sourced on the island, wines from Miro vineyard and a selection of Spanish sherries to try, this is long-lunch territory. Salud!
3 Brown Rd, Onetangi, Waiheke Island, Auckland /
09 372 7854 /
casitamiro.co.nz
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Cibo
Familiarity breeds content at this stalwart venue where an elegant, confident menu has kept this restaurant’s name on locals’ lips for decades. Some items have become legendary. Try the silky duck parfait for starters or, if you need to dine and dash, the banh mi is street food made sublime.
91 St George’s Bay Rd, Parnell, Auckland /
09 303 9660 /
cibo.co.nz
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Coco’s Cantina
The street activity is as lively as the surrounds within Coco’s. The ethos is seasonal, rustic food and locally-sourced ingredients. A mainly Mediterranean menu is delivered in fun, fast, friendly fashion. To dine at this teenaged address is pure theatre. The wines are worthy, too.
374 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
09 300 7582 /
cocoscantina.co.nz
![Cuisine Favourite Destination](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_favorite-black.png)
Copia
We love it when a restaurant includes produce from its own on-site garden and greenhouse. We love it equally when the menu shouts ‘modern New Zealand food and wine’. This is Copia: a former garden centre with views over Hobson Bay. An Orakei oasis.
236 Orakei Rd, Orakei, Auckland /
09 520 2234 /
copia.nz
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Cotto
Cotto has assumed elder statesman status on this street of fame. The restaurant is famous, they say, for their “affordable, decadent, homemade pasta”. We say, “Try the spinach, goats cheese and sage dumplings as an exercise in excellence”. You’ll be back for more.
375 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
09 394 1555 /
cotto.co.nz
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Duo Eatery
It used to be said that pickings were slim on the North Shore. Duo has bridged that gap. Sarah and Jordan MacDonald shifted Shoreside after admirable stints at Culprit, Lowbrow and Fed Deli. They now continue their winning ways here on Hinemoa St. Welcome.
138 Hinemoa St, Birkenhead /
027 213 8591 /
duoeatery.co.nz
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East
East is east and west is west – and here the twain shall meet. Tucked away in the city, this predominantly vegan, gluten-free, modern-Asian eatery packs a whacking taste punch for all palates. An extensive organic and vegan wine list features local and Italian vintages.
63-67 Nelson St, CBD, Auckland /
09 399 2361 /
easteats.co.nz
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Ebisu
Named after the Japanese god of fishing and commerce, Ebisu is another Savor Group member that delivers heavenly modern Japanese cuisine within the Britomart precinct. You can’t go past the chef’s surprise of omakase sashimi – and that’s just for starters.
116-118 Quay St, CBD, Auckland /
09 300 5271 /
savor.co.nz/ebisu
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Farina
This place is as much about the people as it is about the food – and both are exceptionally good. Partners in life and business, Sergio Maglione (chef) and Eleonora Barberis (restaurant manager) deliver genuine Italian deliciousness in lively, lovely surrounds. Go. You’ll feel like family.
244 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland /
09 390 6213 /
farina.co.nz
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Federal Delicatessen
Al Brown’s brains are behind this SkyCity business, and that’s got to be a very good thing. His take on an old-school Jewish NYC delicatessen is as deliciously casual as can be. You can’t go past the bagels. Or the salmon latkes for that matter.
86 Federal St, CBD, Auckland /
021 905 345 /
thefed.co.nz
![Cuisine Favourite Destination](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_favorite-black.png)
Fish
You don’t get more seaside than this – perched over the gorgeous Waitematā harbour – but drag yourself away from the jaw-dropping views to luxuriate in a fine-dining menu of ethically caught seafood and prime New Zealand produce. Culinary director Des Harris’ kitchen team also fulfils the Hilton hotel’s room service menu, for which it has just been named Cuisine’s top Hotel Room Service of the Year 2023/2024.
Level 1, Hilton Auckland, Princes Wharf, 147 Quay St, Auckland /
09 978 2020 /
fishrestaurant.co.nz
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Gao
Creative plating makes a meal at this Asian-fusion establishment an artful experience where visual satisfaction is equalled by the flavour hits from a far-ranging menu. Steak tartare through plump dumplings, fried chicken and crispy pork ribs – all morsels are made for sharing. Or order two (one for me, one for you).
198-200 Dairy Flat Highway,Albany, Auckland /
09 218 2112 /
thegao.co.nz
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Gemmayze St
Traditional Lebanese dishes shine at this address overlooking Myers Park. The seven-year-old St Kevins Arcade stalwart delivers big on Middle Eastern foods without fuss or fanfare. Complex flavours, warm attention, a great place for groups..
St Kevin’s Arcade, 183 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
gemmayzestreet.co.nz
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Gganbu
Korean to the core, this cool kid on the block turns to an expected line-up – think spicy, crispy chicken, pork backbone soup and beef bulgogi – made using fresh, healthy ingredients and time. The team has brought an everso-slightly offbeat brand of fun to the venue and the menu. Angry pork ribs anyone?
38 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland /
09 309 6699 /
gganbunz.com
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Gochu
Commercial Bay spoils you for choice when you’re hungry but this eatery is a sure bet among all the contenders. Fabulous wraparound views of the ferry building and waterfront provide the perfect setting for a kaleidoscopic taste adventure. Gochu delivers way beyond Korean classics.
Commercial Bay, 21 Queen St, CBD, Auckland /
0210 905 2396 /
gochugotyou.co.nz
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Gojo Ethiopian Eatery
Introducing injera: a staple, sour flatbread central to Ethiopian cuisine which doubles as a utensil. Such treats and insights you will find in this suburban location where Fetehalow Zomo and Fantaye Aga pay painstaking and delicious homage to their homeland. Meat, vegan; it’s all good.
15 Totara Ave, New Lynn, Auckland /
022 676 5798 /
gojoethiopiancuisine.com
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Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill
After 35 years in business, this (literal) harbourside institution knows its stuff. Despite its name and piscine association (the creamed North Island pāua toastie has to be a classic), it’s big on land-based dishes, too. Now owned by the Good Group; you’re in good hands.
Ferry Building, 1/99 Quay St, CBD, Auckland /
09 307 0556 /
harbourside.co
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Huami
Behold the big red doors behind which you’ll be privy to the delights of one of Auckland’s best Chinese restaurants and bars. Traditional signature dishes are offered among more modern takes on Asian-fusion cuisine. A dictionary-sized drinks list demands experimentation.
87 Federal St, CBD, Auckland /
09 363 6699 /
Website
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Ima Cuisine
In a place that specialises in “the cuisine of the sun”, we can bask in owner Yael Shochat’s Mediterranean, largely plant-based diet from her Israeli homeland. It’s a true labour of love: all food is made fresh from scratch, daily and on-site. Solar power to the fore.
53 Fort St, CBD, Auckland /
09 377 5252 /
imacuisine.co.nz
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Ki Māha
A stone’s throw from the beach, Ki Māha is more than a destination. Sustainably harvested seafood, ethically farmed meats and locally sourced seasonal fruit and vegetables are served in a pavilion-style setting: an over-seas experience of inviting proportions. Try the crayfish choux, do.
1 Fourth Ave, Onetangi Beach, Waiheke Island, Auckland /
09 372 2565 /
kimaha.nz
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Kingsland Social
The UK’s Time Out magazine recently named Kingsland one of the coolest suburbs in the world, so where better to hang out for breakfast..or brunch…or lunch and watch the world go by? Like the locale, you’ll find nothing too pretentious on the menu – just well-done bistro food, and they don’t skimp on the portions.
462 New North Rd, Kingsland, Auckland /
09 815 0335 /
kingsland.social
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La Fuente
If you’re looking for Aotearoa’s best selection of artisanal mezcal, you’ll find it down this laneway. The spirit is celebrated here in fine style and plays a starring role alongside Mexican-inspired bar bites so you can snack and chat before a show or after work. Mezcal truffles are a sweet ending.
Snickel Lane, 23 Customs St East, CBD, Auckland /
09 303 0238 /
lafuente.co.nz
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Lokanta
Some people go for the legendary hand-cut chips and a drink alone. They’ll inevitably stay for the east Mediterranean mains. Run by seasoned hospo pros who know all about simple, honest goodness in comforting, welcoming surrounds. You’ll feel like a local, even if you’re not.
137A Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn, Auckland /
09 360 6355 /
lokanta.nz
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Madame George
Take a side-trip to Peru? We don’t mind if we do – especially when the welcome is so generous-hearted and the tapas selection has the South American vibrancy (in colour and flavour) inherent in its DNA. Cocktails are laced with Latino good vibes, too. Pisco sours and spicy margaritas get the party started.
490 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
09 308 9039 /
madamegeorge.co.nz
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Milenta
The traditional flavours of South America are made vivid in this sharply styled eatery where a seat on the balcony is best and dishes are prepared over wood coals in an alfresco kitchen. As you’d imagine, there’s plenty for meat lovers to salivate over, but there are also vegetarian options. The drinks list has a global flavour.
210-218 Victoria St West, CBD, Auckland /
milenta.co.nz
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Morell
Lucky locals who live near this neighbourhood establishment get to enjoy the simple pleasures of food made with quality ingredients and a warm welcome, inspired by the tradition of manaakitanga. The menu has influences of the owners’ Māori and Italian heritage and the crayfish and cocktail specials are worth looking out for.
91-95 Upland Rd, Remuera, Auckland /
09 600 3259 /
morell.co.nz
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MoVida
Cousin to the iconic Melbourne-based restaurant, this tapas bar is a magnet for foodies who come to enjoy dishes that made the original great – and try some locally imagined sharing plates. With a view of the harbour and the buzz of the city, the backdrop is as show-stopping as the fare.
Level 2 Seafarers, 52 Tyler St, CBD, Auckland /
09 302 9888 /
savor.co.nz/movida
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Nanam
From a 4sqm food stall to a Royal Oak eatery, and now Hurstmere Rd, this is a story of simplicity and creativity. Their taco pao showcases the Filipino flavours which owners/chefs/partners Andrew Soriano and Jessabel Granada are famous for. Filipino finesse.
178 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna, Auckland /
09 488 9976 /
nanam.co.nz
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Ockhee
The heart and Seoul of Korean food beats strongly in Ponsonby. Chef Lisa Lee labours long over her dishes delivering sweet, savoury, salty, spicy perfection – viz the six-hour, slow-cooked beef. Or what about the potato jeon favourite? Natural wines feature big on the drinks list.
171 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland /
09 217 2020 /
ockheedokey.com
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Omni
A small but perfectly formed, Japanese-inspired menu is cooked over white charcoal and the delicious morsels that emerge from the kitchen are often simple, sometimes smoky but always spot on. The decor has a pared-back precision that elevates the ingredient-driven plates and the wines, mainly organic and bio-dynamic, are beautifully curated.
359 Dominion Rd, Mount Eden, Auckland /
09 623 3590 /
atomni.co.nz
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Onemata
Be it moana (sea) or whenua (land), here you’ll find only the finest local produce. That’s amplified by the international experience of the kitchen staff at the Park Hyatt – head chef Rob Hope-Ede and executive pastry chef Callum Liddicoat included. A carefully crafted menu celebrates homegrown.
99 Halsey St, CBD, Auckland /
09 366 2500 /
onematarestaurant.co.nz
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Ooh-Fa
The (predominantly pizza) menu is small. The venue is small; the wine list, too. But, ooh-fabulosity reigns big time here on Dominion Road. We’ve heard of chefs who’ve ordered every pizza option – sourdough based, every one – and then gone back for seconds.
357 Dominion Rd, Mt Eden, Auckland /
oohfa.co.nz
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Pasta & Cuore
Carbohydrate comfort abounds in this restaurant and pastificio that sits behind a small storefront in the Mt Eden village. Owner and chef Stefania Ugolini brings her Bologna background to this kitchen with uncompromising fastidiousness. You, dear diner, can only reap the rewards of her hands-on attention.
409 Mt Eden Rd, Mt Eden, Auckland /
09 630 9130 /
pastaecuore.co.nz
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Pici
In keeping with the petite proportions of the venue, the menu is on the minuscule side. That illustrates attention to quality over quantity at this pasta and wine bar. Try the signature pici cacio e pepe; stay for the cheesecake. Pici is brim-full of flavour, enthusiasm – and punters.
St Kevin’s Arcade, 183 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
picipasta.co.nz
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Pocha
Cornflake-coated chicken is a best seller at this fun Korean restaurant where happiness is infused into every bite. The place has been serving up the goods for 15 years, so the cheerfulness must be catching. Creative street-food in a sociable atmosphere. Can’t go wrong.
2A/48 Courthouse Lane, Chancery Square, CBD, Auckland /
09 309 2342 /
pocha.co.nz
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Pōni
An elegant, contemporary fit-out, a waterfront location and an Asian-inspired all-day menu collide to make this Commercial Bay eatery a venue for all occasions. Whether it’s a bowl of Dan Dan ramen for lunch, a snack and a drink at the bar or an all-in-to-your-elbows experience like the lamb ribs, it’s here for you to curate.
Level 1, 172 Quay St, CBD, Auckland /
09 869 7148 /
poniakl.co.nz
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Ponsonby Road Bistro
A place where you really can make a meal of it (no 90-min sittings here). PRB is now reaching double digits in age and we salute its stylish seniority. This is global bistro fare at its best. A fave? Char-grilled steak with delightfully chunky chips.
165 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland /
09 360 1611 /
ponsonbyroadbistro.co.nz
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Sails
A mass of masts surrounds you at this Westhaven waterside base. The sea theme carries through to the menu, but is bolstered by meat mentions, too. A capacious wine list, listed by region and varietal, is another plus at this long-held site.
103-113 Westhaven Drive, St Marys Bay, Auckland /
09 378 9890 /
sailsrestaurant.co.nz
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Smoko Room
An independent brewery restaurant promising “generous hospitality [and] food with gumption” is just the ticket. The menu reflects the owners’ mission to protect and preserve shared resources of land, sea, soil and water. Pātiki, pork ribs – and beers (perforce). Perfectly lovely on Leigh.
1004 Leigh Rd, Matakana, Auckland /
09 422 6555 /
sawmillbrewery.co.nz
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Spiga
A thoroughly modern interpretation of serious Italian stuff. Start with as many starters and snacks as you can. Keep a place for pizza, and perhaps some pasta. We have chef Fabrizio (Fab) Napolitano and Kiwi wife Taryne to thank for all this fabulosity.
1/E, 415 Remuera Rd, Remuera, Auckland /
09 869 8080 /
spiga.nz
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Sri Pinang
Who needs a website when word of mouth and customer loyalty means you’re always full? That’s thanks to co-owner Angie Siew’s spot-on hospitality, while in the kitchen her husband, Kun Kaw, delivers on the greatest Malaysian taste. Low prices; top job.
356 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
09 358 3886
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Tantalus Estate
The look might be European but the menu is unapologetically local. Executive chef Gideon Landman heads this handsome family-owned vineyard restaurant. Trust in him completely and settle in for the six-course set menu that draws inspiration from the magnificent estate.
70-72 Onetangi Rd, Onetangi, Waiheke Island, Auckland /
09 372 2625 /
tantalus.co.nz
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The Blue Breeze Inn
Busy, zesty, cool and vibrant. That’s not just the dining space we’re talking about, it’s the tastes from the kitchen. Chef Che Barrington is all about herbs, broths and bases. Not to mention magical ‘do-not-miss’ dumplings. Happy 10th birthday BBI.
Ponsonby Central, 146 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland /
09 360 0303 /
thebluebreezeinn.co.nz
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The Butcher Baker
A destination eatery with a focus on old-fashioned artisans, farmers and local producers who work in harmony with the environment to supply the ingredients that make it into dishes which speak a local language. Craft brews and natural wines toast the tastes of the season.
No 5 Commercial Rd, Helensville, Auckland /
thebutcherbaker.co.nz
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The Farmers Daughter
Farm to fork; ocean to table. What more could you want in this stunning Matakana setting? Sited on the causeway overlooking the Omaha estuary, this is the definitive brunch and lunch spot, seven days a week. They do weddings and events, too.
329 Omaha Flats Rd, Point Wells, Auckland /
Website
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The Oyster Inn
Beachside bistro, long-loved by locals, now owned by Josh Emett. Need we say more? Head chef Jamie Hogg-Wharekawa delivers on Josh-designed dishes such as the seafood tower special. It starts – natch – with natural oysters. It stops with a fish sausage roll. It has everything in between.
124 Ocean View Rd, Oneroa, Waiheke Island, Auckland /
09 372 2222 /
theoysterinn.co.nz
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The Shed at Te Motu
They invite us to enjoy their relaxed, modern-rustic atmosphere, nestled in the very vines that produce their award-winning reds. That’s very persuasive. And these pioneers of the Waiheke wine movement have an on-site garden. Gnocchi, nose-to-tail cuts, dry-aged fish. It’s waiting for you.
76 Onetangi Rd, Onetangi, Waiheke Island, Auckland /
09 372 6884 /
temotu.co.nz
![Cuisine Winery Destination](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_special-black.png)
The Sugar Club
High times can indeed be had 53 storeys up at the top of the Sky Tower. Plant-based menus feature prominently; so too do kai moana and pasture-to-plate dishes. The Sugar Club is, appositely, clubby. Its seriously inventive cocktail menu forms part of an in-depth drinks list.
Sky Tower, 72 Victoria St West, CBD, Auckland /
09 363 6365 /
Website
![](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_winery-black.png)
Tokki
Next-level Korean cuisine where the offerings go way beyond street-food staples. Handmade flat noodles are a standout but there are so many taste adventures to explore you’ll need more than one visit. After dessert, listen out for the crystal tinkle of the whisky trolley.
87 Kitchener Rd, Milford, Auckland /
09 488 0888 /
tokki.co.nz
![Cuisine Global Destination](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_global-black.png)
Uncle Man’s
Sit kitchen-side to watch the balletic performance of roti being rolled. Sit street-side to capture the K. Rd action. Make sure you get some dahl, and some mee goreng, too. A true illustration of the ‘cheap and cheerful’ cliché. Mamak marvellousness.
277 Karangahape Rd, CBD, Auckland /
09 377 1799 /
facebook.com/unclemankrd
![Cuisine Global Destination](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_global-black.png)
Vic Road Kitchen
Take a trip to the Mediterranean where the fish is as fresh as the seabreeze, there are meat dishes that punch robust flavour onto the plate and the vegetarian options are vibrant and moreish. The menu changes frequently and the wine list is curated from their own extensive cellar.
57-59 Victoria Rd, Devonport, Auckland /
09 445 9797 /
vicroadkitchen.co.nz
![Cuisine Favourite Destination](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_favorite-black.png)
Wakuwaku
A gem that presents an elegant fusion of popular Japanese dishes with a contemporary Kiwi spin. You’ll find sashimi and nigiri, as well as izakaya snacks. Toast the scrumptiousness with a premium sake or craft beer. Wakuwaku means ‘pleasing’ or ‘thrilling’ – this certainly is.
Shop 1/D, 415 Remuera Rd, Remuera, Auckland /
09 520 0243 /
wakuwaku.co.nz
![](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_cool-black.png)
White + Wong’s
East meets West in a waterside setting. That means classic street foods plus innovative local tweaks, served up on the Viaduct Basin. W + W is a zingy place to be for lunch, dinner, drinks, snacks – maybe the whole wondrous lot. Another great Good Group find.
149 Quay St, CBD, Auckland /
09 379 6914 /
whiteandwongs.co.nz
![](https://www.cuisine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Set4_cool-black.png)
We’d love to know about your favourite spots.
Send your Cuisine Destination restaurant nominations to editorial@cuisine.co.nz
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