Auckland, a vibrant and diverse city, is home to a rich food culture that mirrors the multicultural landscape of New Zealand itself. From Asian fusion to traditional Māori flavors, the city offers a delicious journey through its local and international cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Auckland’s food scene never fails to impress. During my time in this amazing city, I’ve discovered some of the best restaurants that showcase the essence of Auckland’s food culture.
In this guide, I’ll take you through some of the best spots to eat in Auckland, sharing my experiences and the meals that left an unforgettable mark. From casual bites to fine dining, this list is designed to introduce you to local culinary treasures that you should definitely add to your itinerary. And, of course, I’ll also share a few platforms where you can easily make reservations and order food.
1. The Glass Goose – A Taste of Modern Kiwi Cuisine
Located in the heart of Auckland’s central business district, The Glass Goose is a hidden gem that blends contemporary Kiwi flavors with a cozy yet stylish atmosphere. I visited this restaurant on my second night in Auckland, and I can confidently say it’s one of the highlights of my food journey here.
The restaurant has a gorgeous rooftop bar with views of the Auckland skyline, making it a perfect spot for an evening meal. The menu here is an ode to New Zealand’s natural bounty, with locally sourced ingredients like grass-fed beef, fresh seafood, and organic vegetables. One dish I’d recommend is their slow-braised lamb shoulder, cooked to perfection with a rich, savory sauce that highlights the tenderness of the meat.
As an appetizer, I tried their seafood chowder, and it was nothing short of delightful. Creamy and packed with fresh fish, mussels, and prawns, it was a perfect introduction to the rich seafood offerings in Auckland. If you’re looking to pair your meal with something refreshing, their craft cocktails are also worth a try.
Booking a table here is easy through platforms like Bookatable or Resy, which allow you to choose the perfect time to enjoy the atmosphere and food.
2. Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar – The Ultimate Seafood Experience
If you’re a seafood lover, Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar should be at the top of your list. This bustling restaurant in Federal Street offers some of the freshest seafood in Auckland, and I had the chance to try a few dishes that left me craving more.
The menu is inspired by traditional New Zealand coastal flavors, with an emphasis on fresh, sustainable seafood. The oysters here are simply outstanding. Served chilled with a squeeze of lemon and a dash of vinegar, they were fresh and briny, perfectly complementing the restaurant’s lively atmosphere.
The highlight for me, however, was the famous Depot seafood platter, which includes a variety of shellfish, fish, and sides that provide a true taste of Auckland’s coastal cuisine. The grilled fish fillet, paired with smoky grilled vegetables, was a true celebration of New Zealand’s culinary heritage.
Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar doesn’t take reservations, but you can usually grab a spot if you visit early. Alternatively, you can try platforms like EatHere to check for availability or book ahead at other local spots in Auckland.
3. The Sugar Club – Fine Dining with a View
For a more refined dining experience, The Sugar Club is a must-visit. Located on the 53rd floor of the Sky Tower, this restaurant offers not only exquisite food but also stunning panoramic views of Auckland. As I sat by the window, watching the sunset over the harbor, I felt like I was experiencing the city from a completely different perspective.
The Sugar Club serves modern New Zealand cuisine with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The tasting menu here is exceptional, offering a series of dishes that showcase the best of local produce. One of my favorites was the venison dish, which was cooked to perfection with a flavorful berry sauce and paired with seasonal vegetables.
I recommend pairing the tasting menu with one of their carefully selected wines from New Zealand’s best wineries. The staff at The Sugar Club are knowledgeable and can guide you through the perfect wine pairing for each course.
To reserve a table, you can use the Bookatable app, which allows you to choose the time and date for a memorable fine dining experience.
4. Fish, Smith & Co – A Cozy Seafood Spot with a Local Twist
Located in the vibrant Ponsonby area, Fish, Smith & Co. is the kind of restaurant you want to visit when you’re craving simple yet delicious seafood. It’s a casual spot with a laid-back vibe, but the food here speaks volumes about the culinary talent behind the scenes.
The menu features classic New Zealand seafood dishes with a modern twist. I opted for the fish and chips, and it was a game-changer. The battered fish was crispy on the outside, yet tender and flaky on the inside, and paired with perfectly crispy fries. It’s comfort food done right, with a focus on fresh, high-quality fish caught locally.
Another standout dish was the seafood chowder, which was rich, creamy, and brimming with fresh seafood. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner, Fish, Smith & Co. is an excellent choice for a taste of Kiwi seafood.
For ease, you can book a table via Resy or EatHere, where you can easily check availability and secure your spot in advance.
5. Sawmill Brewery – Craft Beers and Local Bites
If you’re someone who enjoys pairing food with great craft beer, then Sawmill Brewery is an essential stop. Located just outside the city center, in the tranquil town of Matakana, this brewery offers a laid-back atmosphere and a fantastic selection of craft beers brewed on-site.
What makes Sawmill Brewery so special is its focus on local ingredients and unique flavor profiles. I tried their famous smoked chicken wings, which were tender and smoky, perfectly complemented by their signature IPA. The brewery also offers wood-fired pizzas, and their margherita pizza is a must-try for anyone craving something simple yet full of flavor.
The brewery’s outdoor seating area offers the perfect place to relax while sipping on your favorite brew. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner, and they often host live music events, making for a fun evening out.
Reservations can be made directly through their website, or you can use Bookatable for a seamless booking experience.
6. Toby’s Kitchen – A Cozy Bistro in the Heart of Auckland
If you’re looking for a cozy bistro that offers homey comfort food, Toby’s Kitchen should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the vibrant Wynyard Quarter, this charming restaurant offers hearty dishes that are perfect for a relaxed meal after a day of exploring Auckland.
The menu here focuses on classic New Zealand comfort food with a modern twist. One dish I highly recommend is the pan-seared duck breast, which was cooked to perfection with a sweet and savory sauce. The accompanying sides of mashed potatoes and seasonal greens were a wonderful complement to the rich flavors of the duck.
For a lighter option, I also enjoyed their fresh salads and seafood dishes, which were just as delicious. The atmosphere at Toby’s Kitchen is warm and inviting, and it’s the kind of place where you can easily spend hours enjoying good food and good company.
Booking a table at Toby’s Kitchen can be done via Resy or EatHere, which offer convenient platforms to secure your spot at this cozy bistro.
7. The French Cafe – A Michelin-Starred Experience
For a truly unforgettable dining experience in Auckland, look no further than The French Cafe. This award-winning, Michelin-starred restaurant offers an elegant fine-dining experience that transports you straight to Paris while still embracing the best of New Zealand ingredients.
The French Cafe specializes in modern French cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local produce. The tasting menu here is an experience in itself, offering beautifully crafted dishes that are both artful and delicious. I was particularly impressed with their foie gras dish, which was perfectly seared and paired with a delicate fruit compote that balanced the richness of the liver.
The atmosphere is intimate and refined, making it perfect for a special occasion. The service is impeccable, and the attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the meal. If you’re a fan of French cuisine or simply want to experience one of Auckland’s finest restaurants, The French Cafe is an absolute must-try.
For reservations, I recommend using Bookatable or calling ahead directly, as this spot can get booked up quickly due to its popularity.
Auckland is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants offering everything from casual bites to Michelin-starred experiences. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, modern Kiwi cuisine, or international flavors, this city has it all. With so many fantastic dining options to explore, you’ll have no shortage of incredible meals during your visit. So, grab your appetite and start exploring the vibrant food scene in Auckland!
