If you love eating out as much as I do, you might know that Auckland’s dining scene is seriously exciting right now. It feels like there’s a fabulous new restaurant popping up every five minutes—and honestly, trying to keep up is a full-time job. (One I would happily apply for, if anyone’s hiring!)
I definitely can’t claim I’ve eaten everywhere—I mean, who could? The list of places I want to try seems to grow faster than I can tick them off. But I’ve made a pretty decent dent and today I’m sharing some of my favourites right in the heart of downtown Auckland.
One tip before we dive in: book ahead if you can. Some places take walk-ins, but it’s a bit of a gamble—especially on Friday and Saturday nights when the whole city seems to have the same brilliant idea.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff…
Alma – Smoky Andalusian Goodness
Alma (Spanish) brings the smoky, sunny flavours of southern Spain right into the heart of Auckland. It’s all about chargrilled sharing plates, bold ingredients and a relaxed buzz that feels like holiday mode in full swing.
Amano – Rustic Italian Magic
Amano (Italian) is a bit of a Britomart institution—and for good reason. Their menu changes all the time to reflect what’s fresh and in season, and it’s always spot on. Handmade pasta, fresh seafood, yummy pastries… I could happily eat here every week and never get bored.
Cassia – Contemporary Indian Elegance
Cassia (Modern Indian) is modern Indian dining at its finest. Think familiar flavours dialled up with a contemporary twist and plated like a work of art. Ideal for date nights or any occasion that calls for something a little bit special.
Culprit – Upmarket Kiwi Cool
Culprit (Modern Kiwi) is playful, clever, and just a little bit cheeky—basically, it’s right up my alley. Their menu is full of bold, reimagined Kiwi classics and the kaimoana (seafood) dishes are especially brilliant. Local, fresh and full of flavour.
East Restaurant – Plant-Based Deliciousness
East (Vegetarian Asian) is proof that vegetarian food can be anything but boring. Their fully vegetarian—and mostly vegan—menu roams all over Asia and the flavours are so vibrant you’ll forget there’s no meat in them.
Depot – Laidback Kiwi Legend
Depot (New Zealand) is one of those places where the food is simple but ridiculously good. Lots of wood-fired cooking, fresh-as seafood and a drinks list that’s dangerously tempting. It’s loud, it’s casual, and it never misses.
Ghost Street – Secret Underground Feast
Ghost Street (Regional Chinese) is tucked away beneath Britomart and feels like a secret worth sharing. The menu leans into bold, spicy dishes from Chengdu and Xi’an—perfect if you’re in the mood for something warming and a little bit different.
Gilt – European Brasserie Chic
Gilt (European Brasserie) is elegant without being uptight. Set in the beautiful old Chancery Chambers building, it serves up modern takes on classic European dishes—plus excellent cocktails and a bit of old-world charm.
Hazy Tiger – Korean Fusion Fun
Hazy Tiger (Modern Korean) is the place to be if you love creative cocktails, bold flavours and a side of buzz. The Korean tapas-style menu is designed for sharing—and good thing too, because everything’s so good you’ll want to try a bit of everything.
Hello Beasty – Modern Asian Mischief
Hello Beasty (Asian Fusion) blends Japanese, Korean, and Chinese influences into a fresh, vibrant menu made for sharing. Everything’s packed with flavour, beautifully presented and just a little bit addictive.
Metita – Pacific Flavours Reimagined
Metita (Modern Pacific) brings the bold, earthy flavours of the Pacific Islands into a beautifully designed, vibrant space. The menu feels fresh and adventurous, with traditional ingredients reimagined in clever, modern ways. A gorgeous spot for a dinner that’s a little bit different.
White & Wong’s – East Meets West Party
White & Wong’s (Asian Fusion) is a fun mix of Southeast Asian street food and classic Western comforts. Big flavours, generous portions and a lively waterfront location—it’s great for groups and casual catch-ups.
So there you have it—some of my current favourites in downtown Auckland. The list is always changing (and so is my wish list), but these are the ones that have earned a spot in my heart—and my tummy.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a few more reservations to make… purely in the name of research, of course. 😉
Fancy a drink before or after dinner? Take a look here: My Favourite Bars in Downtown Auckland
More New Zealand inspiration for you to discover:
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.