Top 6 Places to Eat in Auckland

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Captivating view of Auckland's skyline at dusk featuring the iconic Sky Tower under a colorful sky.
Donovan Kelly, Pexels

Auckland's culinary scene is a vibrant and diverse landscape that offers a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience, embracing multicultural flavors and local ingredients to cater to a wide range of palates.

1. The Grove

Cuisine: Modern European with a focus on local New Zealand ingredients

Nestled in Auckland's CBD, The Grove offers an exquisite fine dining experience with a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. The focus is on modern European cuisine, meticulously crafted with seasonal, locally-sourced New Zealand ingredients. A tasting menu provides a culinary journey, often featuring standout dishes like Duck Liver Parfait and perfectly cooked Wagyu Beef. The service is impeccable, contributing to a truly memorable and luxurious evening.

Price: NZD $150 - $250+ per person (approx. USD $90 - $150+)

Getting There: Located in the heart of Auckland's Central Business District (CBD), it is easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations.

2. Ahi

Cuisine: Modern New Zealand with traditional Māori techniques

Situated within Commercial Bay, Ahi stands out for its innovative approach to modern New Zealand cuisine, incorporating traditional Māori cooking techniques. Under the guidance of Head Chef Ben Bayly, the restaurant emphasizes a garden-to-table philosophy, with many ingredients sourced from their own garden. Expect exquisitely presented dishes that celebrate local produce and unique flavors, such as pāua fish fingers. The dining room is elegant, and the service is attentive, making it a class act for those seeking an authentic and high-quality local experience.

Price: NZD $100 - $180+ per person (approx. USD $60 - $110+)

Getting There: Found in Commercial Bay, it is within walking distance from the main Queen Street area and Viaduct Harbour.

3. Gemmayze Street

Cuisine: Modern Lebanese

Located in St Kevin's Arcade on Karangahape Road, Gemmayze Street provides a lively and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for couples, families, and groups. This restaurant is renowned for its superb Lebanese cuisine, which blends traditional flavors with a contemporary twist. The space itself is charming, with tables spilling out onto chequerboard tiles and large windows offering views of Myers Park and the Sky Tower. Guests often praise the consistent quality of the food and the warm service.

Price: NZD $50 - $90 per person (approx. USD $30 - $55)

Getting There: Located on Karangahape Road, it is a short walk or quick bus ride from Auckland CBD. Public buses frequently run along K'Road.

4. Amano

Cuisine: Italian-inspired with New Zealand ingredients

Amano, nestled in Auckland's Britomart precinct, strikes a balance between serving top-quality, Italian-inspired food and maintaining a welcoming, relaxed environment. The menu creatively incorporates regional New Zealand seafood and local produce into dishes like house-made pasta and burrata. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a popular choice for diners who appreciate excellent food without unnecessary complexity.

Price: NZD $40 - $70 per person (approx. USD $25 - $45)

Getting There: Conveniently located in Britomart, it is easily walkable from the Auckland CBD and the waterfront area.

5. Eden Noodles Cafe

Cuisine: Sichuan Chinese (noodles and dumplings)

Eden Noodles Cafe is a popular destination for authentic Sichuan cuisine, celebrated for its hand-pulled noodles and spicy dumplings. The eatery is known for its bold flavors and generous portions, often attracting lines of eager diners. Despite its casual setting, it consistently earns praise as one of Auckland's best cheap eats. Must-try items include their various spicy dumplings and dan dan noodles, available across multiple locations.

Price: NZD $13 - $25 per person (approx. USD $8 - $15)

Getting There: With several outposts, including locations on O'Connell Street in the CBD and Commercial Bay, it is easily accessible on foot. Another popular branch is on Dominion Road, reachable by bus from the CBD.

6. Sumthin Dumplin

Cuisine: Dumplings

Sumthin Dumplin is a popular and affordable spot in the city specializing in a variety of delicious dumplings and accompanying sauces. It is an excellent choice for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal on the go. Options include chicken, pork, beef, pork and prawn, and vegetarian fillings, making it versatile for different preferences.

Price: NZD $13 - $20 per person (approx. USD $8 - $12)

Getting There: Located on O'Connell Street and Wellesley Street East in the Auckland CBD, both locations are easily walkable from central areas.

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