10 Best Auckland Restaurants Worth Trying in 2024
Auckland is a food lover’s paradise, with a wealth of dining options to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a lively lunch, or a cozy brunch, you’ll find it in this vibrant and diverse city. But with so many choices, how do you decide where to go? Don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you. We’ve scoured the city and sampled the menus to bring you our definitive list of the best restaurants in Auckland for 2024.
These are the places that impressed us with their quality, creativity, and service, and left us wanting more. So get ready to feast your eyes and your taste buds on our top 10 picks for the best restaurants in Auckland. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
Aucklands Top 10 Restaurants in 2024
1. Masu
Why we love it: Masu is a Japanese restaurant that combines traditional techniques with modern flair. The menu is designed by renowned chef Nic Watt, who showcases the best of seasonal and local ingredients. The dishes are beautifully presented and bursting with flavour, from the sushi and sashimi, to the robata grill, to the desserts. The restaurant also has an impressive sake and wine list, as well as a stylish and spacious interior. While this might not be the newest restaurant on this list, we’ve placed it at the top because it consistently delivers time and time again, and always has impeccable service.
Must-try dish: The Tokyo platter is the star of the menu and a delicate starter that features thinly sliced sashimi, oysters, crayfish and chirashi tartare. Perfect to share with a group of friends, make sure you order the fresh wasabi to accompany this dish.
Location: Masu is located at the SKYCITY Grand Hotel, on the corner of Federal and Victoria Streets, in the heart of Auckland CBD.
Our experience: We visited Masu on a Saturday night and were greeted by a friendly and attentive staff. The restaurant was buzzing with energy and excitement, and we could see the chefs working their magic in the open kitchen. We ordered the Tokyo platter, the bluefin tuna sashimi, the wagyu, and the Cloudy bay clams. Everything was delicious and cooked to perfection, and we especially loved the delicate flavors that allow high quality ingredients to shine. We also couldn’t pass up their margaritas and sake cocktails. We finished our meal with the chocolate and green tea fondant, which was a decadent and indulgent treat.
We love the service at Masu, and always make sure to make reservations in advance every time we are in town. It’s also an ideal spot for pre-show dinner if you plan on seeing any performances at the Civic Theatre nearby.
2. Bivacco
Why we love it: Bivacco is an Italian restaurant that offers authentic and rustic cuisine in a cozy setting with harbor views. The restaurant is open with a laid back ambience that makes it ideal for long lunches. The dishes are seasonal and satisfying, from the homemade pasta and pizza, to the meat and seafood, to the salads and antipasti. The restaurant also has a great selection of Italian wines and beers, and is renowned for its charming, friendly service. While this is an Italian restaurant, they actually are very accommodating when it comes to food allergies such as celiac, and seafood allergies.
Must-try dish: Honestly it’s hard to choose just one dish from Bivacco as they are all so tasty! The lemon stracciatella is delightful, so is the Burrata. The mushroom truffle woodfire pizza is also one of the best pizza’s in Auckland, and is an absolute must-try for vegetarians.
Location:
Our experience: We visited Bivacco on a Sunday afternoon and were welcomed by a warm and hospitable staff. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic and homely decor. We ordered the Burrata, the pizza margherita, the beef carpaccio, and the tiramisu. Everything was fresh and tasty, and we especially loved the Burrata, which melted in our mouths. We also enjoyed a glass of Pinot Noir that matched the food well. We finished our meal with the tiramisu, which was light and creamy, with a hint of coffee. We had a lovely time at Bivacco and would definitely go back again.
It’s perfect for a large group of friends for a long lunch on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
3. Origine
Why we love it: Origine is a spectacular French restaurant on Auckland’s waterfront, serving the best of New Zealand produce, inspired by classic French technique. The menu is created with organic ingredients where possible. The dishes are elegant and refined, from the faux foie gras, to the duck to the dessert. The restaurant also has a stunning view of the Auckland harbor, and a sophisticated and spacious dining room, with a superb wine list.
Must-try dish: The Boeuf Bourguignon is a showstopper that features a tender and juicy beef cheek, mushroom duxelle, a leek sauce, served with potato mash, and a red wine sauce.
Location: Origine is located at Commercial Bay Level 2/172 Quay St, Auckland CBD.
Our experience: We visited Origine on a Friday night and were impressed by the stunning and modern interior, with a large open dining area that has wall-to-wall glass walls framing the stunning views. We ordered the beef cheek, the terrine, faux foie gras, and the petit fours with coffee for dessert. Everything was exquisite and cooked to perfection, and we especially loved the beef cheek, which was a masterpiece of flavor and texture. We also enjoyed a bottle of pinot noir that complemented the food well. We finished our meal with the petit fours, which included a heavenly macaron. We had an amazing time at Origine and would definitely go back again to try out their other menu items.
This Auckland restaurant is one of the best restaurants for a romantic dinner.
4. Cassia
Why we love it: Cassia is a modern Indian restaurant that offers a unique and exciting twist on traditional dishes. The menu is designed by chef Sid Sahrawat, who combines his Indian heritage with his culinary skills and local ingredients. The dishes are layered with spice and complex flavors, from the starters to the curries, and desserts. The restaurant also has a cozy and contemporary interior, a friendly and attentive service, and a fantastic cocktail and wine list.
Must-try dish: The mushroom, green chili, and truffle is a vegetarian masterpiece that features a medley of mushrooms, cooked with green chili and truffle oil, served with crispy paratha bread. It is a dish that bursts with flavor and texture, and showcases the creativity and skill of the chef.
Location: Cassia is located at Sky City, 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD.
Our experience: We visited Cassia on a Thursday night and were blown away by the refined and elegant setting, with two levels of seating and a dimly lit ambiance. The restaurant was bustling and lively, and we could see the chefs working in the open kitchen. We started our meal with some expertly crafted cocktails and wine, and then ordered the te matuku oyster pakora, the goan lamb chops, the mushroom, green chilli, truffle, and the beef short-rib vindaloo.
Everything was exquisite and spicy, and we especially loved the mushroom dish, which was a revelation of flavor and richness. We also enjoyed an off-menu dessert that the chef surprised us with, which was a berry and custard delight, wrapped in white chocolate. It was a decadent and indulgent treat that capped off our meal perfectly.
Cassia is easily Auckland’s best Indian restaurant, and a must-visit in the Winter months for cozy, comforting food with unique flavor profiles.
5. Ragtag
Why we love it: Ragtag is a fun and funky restaurant that serves inauthentic Mexican food with a Kiwi twist. The menu features a variety of tacos, and slow cooked meats with unconventional and delicious fillings, sauces, and toppings. The restaurant also has a vibrant and lively vibe, and a great selection of beers and margaritas.
Must-try dish: The duck carnitas tacos are a delightful treat that feature succulent duck, beetroot salsa, and duck fat-infused tortillas, packed with flavor and texture.
Location:
Our experience: We visited Ragtag on a Sunday night and had a blast. The restaurant was unpretentious and inviting, with friendly and attentive service. We ordered the duck carnitas tacos, the beef nuggets, the prawn tostada, and the slow-cooked lamb. Everything was fresh and tasty, and we especially loved the duck carnitas tacos, which were rich and moorish. We also enjoyed a few chili margaritas that matched the food well, providing some acidity to cut through the fatty slow cooked meats. We finished our meal with the sticky toffee pudding, which was super soft and sweet. While not technically authentic Mexican, Ragtag is one of Auckland’s best Latin American influenced restaurants, and is a great spot for catching up with friends over a few tacos.
6. Alma
Why we love it: Alma is a charming and cozy restaurant that offers a fusion of Andalusian and Kiwi cuisine, using fresh and local ingredients. The menu is diverse and creative, featuring dishes that range from classics like oysters, lamb, and sweet potato to chicken liver. The restaurant also has a lovely and inviting interior, with wooden furniture, tiled floors, and a fireplace that creates a warm and homey atmosphere. The restaurant also has a great wine list, featuring both local and international selections.
Must-try dish:
The Tuna Crudo, Piquillo Pepper, with Anchovy is a dish that will delight your senses. The tuna is sliced thinly and served raw, with a sweet and tangy piquillo pepper sauce and a salty and savory anchovy dressing. The dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with the freshness of the tuna, the crunch of the peppers, and the smoothness of the anchovies. It is a dish that showcases the chef’s skill and creativity, as well as the quality of the ingredients.
Location: Alma is located at 130 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Our experience:
We visited Alma on a Saturday afternoon with a large group of family and friends. We ordered the oysters, the tuna crudo, the lamb, and the sweet potato, along with a bottle of wine. We were impressed by the presentation and the taste of the dishes, which were all uniquely satisfying. We especially enjoyed the oysters, which were light and refreshing, and the lamb, which was tender and flavorful. We also loved the sweet potato, which was a surprising take, and delightful side dish. We had a wonderful time at Alma and would recommend it as one of Auckland’s best restaurants for catering to a large group of people, without needing to order a set menu.
7. Amano
Why we love it: Amano is an Italian restaurant that offers authentic and rustic cuisine in a beautiful and spacious setting. The menu is based on seasonal and local ingredients, sourced from the restaurant’s own farm and bakery. The dishes are simple and delicious, from the homemade pasta, and delicious salads. The restaurant also has a stunning and elegant interior, with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and dried floral arrangements.
Must-try dish: The tagliatelle al ragù is a classic and satisfying main course that features fresh and silky pasta tossed in a rich and meaty tomato sauce, topped with parmesan cheese and parsley.
Location: Amano is located at 66-68 Tyler Street, Britomart, Auckland CBD.
Our experience: We visited Amano on a Monday morning and were amazed by the beautiful and spacious interior, with a bright and airy decor. The restaurant was calm and relaxing, and we could see the bakery and the farm shop next to it. We ordered the tagliatelle al ragù, the mushroom pizza, the burrata salad, and the lemon tart.
Everything was fresh and tasty, and we especially loved the tagliatelle, which was made with organic flour and eggs from the restaurant’s farm. We also enjoyed a cup of coffee that matched the food well. We finished our meal with the lemon tart, which was zesty and creamy, with a crunchy pastry. We had a great time at Amano and would definitely go back again.
8. Tantalus
Why we love it: Tantalus is a vineyard and restaurant that offers a scenic and serene escape from the city. The menu is based on fresh and organic produce, grown on the estate or sourced from local suppliers. The dishes are creative and flavourful, from the charcuterie and cheese boards, to the mains and sides. The restaurant also has a stunning view of the vineyard and the valley, a cozy and rustic dining room, and a superb wine and beer list.
Must-try dish: The lamb rump is a tender and juicy main course that features a herb-crusted lamb rump, served with roasted baby carrots, minted peas, and red wine jus.
Location: Tantalus is located at 70 -72 Onetangi Road, Waiheke Island.
Our experience: We visited Tantalus on a Sunday afternoon and were enchanted by the scenic and serene location, with a lush and green landscape. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a fireplace and beautiful interior decor. We ordered the lamb rump, the fish of the day, the beetroot salad, and the cheese board. Everything was delicious and well-presented, and we especially loved the lamb rump, which was cooked to perfection and paired with a glass of Tantalus Syrah. We also enjoyed a beer from the Alibi Brewing Company, which is located on the estate. We finished our meal with the cheese board, which featured a selection of local and imported cheeses, crackers, and honey. We had a lovely time at Tantalus and would recommend this to anyone wanting to do a day trip to Waiheke as it’s the best restaurant on Waiheke Island.
9. Ahi
Why we love it:
Ahi is a spectacular restaurant that celebrates the best of New Zealand cuisine, using organic and locally sourced ingredients. The menu is created by award-winning chef Ben Bayly, who showcases his creativity and skill in every dish. The dishes are inspired by classic French technique, but with a twist of Kiwi flair and innovation. The restaurant also has a stunning location at the Commercial Bay, overlooking the Auckland harbor. The dining room is spacious and modern, with a sleek and elegant design.
Must-try dish:
The Ahi’s Scampi Corn Dog, Paua Crumpet with Fermented Pics Peanut Butter is a dish that will surprise and delight you. The scampi corn dog is a crispy and juicy treat, made with fresh scampi and a cornmeal batter. The paua crumpet is a soft and fluffy pancake, topped with a creamy and nutty peanut butter sauce and a succulent paua (abalone) meat. The dish is a perfect combination of sweet and savory, crunchy and smooth, and rich and light.
Location:
Ahi is located at 7 Queen Street Level 2, Commercial Bay, Auckland Central 1010.
Our experience:
We visited Ahi on a Sunday evening and were amazed by the service and the food. We ordered the scampi corn dog, the paua crumpet, and the wagyu grade scotch filet. We were impressed by the presentation and the taste of the dishes, which were all delicious and satisfying. We especially enjoyed the scampi corn dog, which was a fun and tasty snack, and the paua crumpet, which was a unique and flavorful dish. We also loved the beef, which was tender and flavorful. We had a wonderful time at Ahi and we would recommend it if you are looking for an Auckland restaurant that showcases some of the country's best chefs, in a formal dining atmosphere.
10. Kingi
Why we love it: Kingi is a seafood restaurant that celebrates the diversity and quality of New Zealand’s oceans. The menu is based on sustainable and seasonal seafood, sourced from local fishermen and suppliers. The dishes are simple and delicious, from the raw and cured fish dishes to elegant, interesting, vegetable sides. The restaurant also has a cozy and contemporary interior, with a long bar, a fireplace, however it is quite small, so not a good choice for a larger group.
Must-try dish: You can’t go to Kingi without ordering the hot smoked kahawai, which is an absolute must-try dish, as well as the wood roasted mushrooms.
Location: Kingi is located at 29 Galway Street, Britomart, Auckland CBD.
Our experience: We visited Kingi on a Tuesday night and were charmed by the cozy and contemporary interior, with a fireplace and a fish tank. The restaurant was relaxed and friendly, and we could see the fresh seafood on display. We ordered the kahawai, the oysters, the mushrooms, and the blue cod wings. Everything was incredibly fresh and tasty, and we especially loved the cod wings, which were crispy and tender. We also enjoyed a glass of pinot noir, which matched the food well. We finished our meal with reclaimed espresso martini, which was delicious. Kingi is definitely Auckland’s best seafood restaurant and a great spot to stop before exploring the Britomart area.
We hope you enjoyed reading our round up of Auckland’s 10 best restaurants for 2024, let us know if you think we should include any other restaurants on our list and we’ll go and try them out.
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