From French, Italian, Kiwi and more…there are plenty of unbeatable global cuisines, beautiful interiors and top service on offer in Auckland. Whether you want something new or you’re craving a nostalgic favourite…you’ll be spoilt for choice from our list. Here’s eight of the best restaurants in Auckland offering memorable dining experiences.
1. Hello Beasty
This modern fusion restaurant is a crowd-pleaser in Auckland. Located at Viaduct Harbour, tuck into a creative meals designed for sharing by Chef Stuard Rogan and team, in a vibrant setting. Expect a delicious selection of New Zealand delights mixed with Korean, Chinese and Japanese twists. Menu highlights include big plates like slow-cooked coastal lamb shoulder, potstickers and buns, wild caught Australian tiger prawns, to name a few. Plus, they have plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options.
📍95-97 Customs Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
2. Onslow
This fine dining eatery is one of the most popular restaurants in Auckland run by MasterChef judge Josh Emett and his wife Helen. The restaurant is dedicated to Emett’s culinary experience worldwide including in London and New York. Enjoy a sophisticated affair of lunch and dinner from North Island Scampi Tagliatelle to 12 Hour Te Mana Lamb Shoulder, drooling desserts, and much more – in a relaxed setting either inside or on the alfresco terrace.
📍9 Princes Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
3. Cotto
Get cosy with a plate of the best handmade pasta and other affordable Italian dishes at this must-visit restaurant in the CBD. Many dishes are made gluten-free and dairy-free such as the focaccia, lamb ribs, and tiramasu ice cream…so it’s a superb alternative for those on restrictive diets. Be sure to pair it with a stellar cocktail to finish.
📍375 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
4. Origine
Situated in the former Saxo + Parole, this beautiful new French restaurant boasts 150 seats overlooking Waitematā waterfront through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Concepted renowned restaurateurs Ben Bayly and Chris Martin, alongside their wives…it’s the perfect place to enjoy the finest French cuisine and feel like you are in France. Read all about it here.
📍Commercial Bay Level 2/172 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
5. Baduzzi
This award-winning restaurant is actually one of the best romantic dining spots, serving the finest Italian cuisine, in Auckland. Why not tuck into a large plate of spaghetti pastas and meatballs and sink your sweet tooth into some delicious tiramisu? And if you are extra hungry, opt to share one of the best pizzas from the menu. Definitely, one of the best restaurants in Auckland.
📍 10-26 Jellicoe Street, North Wharf, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
6. Mr Hao
Be transported to Shanghai at one of the best restaurants in Auckland located on Dominion Road. Indulge on a range of authentic Asian flavours such as BBQ seafood grill, numbing chicken, BBQ meat skewers, plates of noodles and lots more at an affordable value.
📍365 Dominion Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand
7. Ahi
This authentic restaurant, located in downtown Auckland, placed on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. It incorporates fresh organic local produce and produce grown by the team, with indigenous Māori cooking techniques and Asian influences, to create delicious menus loved by diners. Think BBQ octopus, grilled wagyu bavette, garden tarts, and a stellar list of global wines and spirits to wash it all down with. Perfect for a birthday dinner!
📍Commercial Bay Level 2/7 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
8. The Grove
Another one of the best romantic restaurants for those who love expensive wining and dining. In an upscale setting, try out a 5 or 9-course modern European cuisine meal. Excitingly, they offer personalised degustation dining, so you have freedom in choosing what you want to eat. Certainly, makes a memorable dining experience no matter if it’s a date or with a group.
📍 Saint Patricks Square, Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Want breakfast instead? Discover the best breakfast restaurants in Auckland