Top 10 Restaurants Auckland

In Auckland, Paris Butter is a next-level dining experience. Chefs Nick Honeyman and Zennon Wijlens, the 2023/2024 Cuisine Chef of the Year, lead a culinary journey that celebrates New Zealand's finest produce with innovative flair. Their menu, an evolution over three or six courses, dances with seasonal textures and flavours, taking diners on a gastronomic adventure inspired by memories and travels. With an interior designed to evoke sophistication by Olga Skorik Design, and a team dedicated to elevating your experience, Paris Butter is where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality.

Photography: Courtesy of Paris Butter

The Grove is located next to the St Patricks Cathedral in Auckland’s CBD. Offering a 4,5 or 6-course degustation comprising a frequently changing modern New Zealand with dishes changing regularly, depending on market availability. A refreshing and welcoming change is the full menu for vegetarians and vegans.

Open for dinner Wednesday-Saturday.

Photography: Courtesy of The Grove Restaurant

Located in the picturesque Mission Bay of Auckland, Azabu Mission Bay marries Japanese precision with Peruvian flair. From its iconic beachfront stone building, Azabu beckons diners into a realm of delicious dining. From tantalising ceviche to exquisitely crafted sushi and sashimi, the chef's artistry blends traditional Japanese techniques with the vibrant essence of Peru. 

Photography: Courtesy of Azabu Mission Bay

Sidart is in Ponsonby, and inner suburb of Auckland within an unassuming building which is all foprgotten once you entre this elegant restaurant wit views over College Hills. Owner and Executive chef Lesley Chandra is proud of his Fijian Indian heritage evident in his menu which showcases Indian flavours with the best seasonal produce New Zealand offers. 4,5,6, and 7 course tasting menus afford diners the chance to taste plates that may include kingfish, fresh asparagus, pork, quail or venison all cooked with unique flavours and techniques. Vegetarians are certainly not overlooked with a Vegetarian Discovery menu.

Lunch Fridays and dinner Tuesday-Saturday

Photography: Courtesy of Sidart Restaurant

Culprit. attracts diners with its stylish ambiance and innovative dishes. Here, nostalgic Kiwi cuisine meets a modern global twist, curated by Owner and Chef Kyle Street. With playful dishes bursting with flavour, Culprit. celebrates New Zealand's rich culinary heritage while embracing international influences. Their chef's choice menus showcase the best of local suppliers, ensuring freshness and quality in every bite. From seasonal creations to vegetarian and vegan options, Culprit. promises a dining experience that is both adventurous and comforting. 

Photography: Courtesy of Culprit.

Cassia Restaurant is located in Fort Lane, a hidden gem laden with cafes, bars and restaurants in Auckland’s CBD.  Owner of the first modern Indian restaurant in Auckland, renowned chef Sid Sahrawat has created a menu of small bites, share dishes and larger plates enabling diners to taste traditional Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist. The cocktails are worth a try and are a perfect start to the Journey through India set menu, perfect for groups and offering optional wine pairing.

Lunch Wednesday-Sunday and dinner daily

Photography: Courtesy of Cassia Restaurant

MASU by Nic Watt is an acclaimed Japanese robata restaurant nestled in Auckland's Federal Street dining precinct. With an ethos centred on using fresh local ingredients and highlighting natural flavours, MASU offers a contemporary twist on traditional robata cooking over an open charcoal grill. Boasting a minimalist yet inviting atmosphere, the restaurant exudes passion and vibrancy in every dish. Celebrating a decade of culinary excellence, MASU presents a special menu featuring signature favourites curated by Nic Watt himself.

Photography: Courtesy of  MASU by Nic Watt

Atelier welcomes guests with its charming French flair and warm hospitality. Led by executive chefs Kélian Monteil and Alexis Petit, Atelier promises a culinary journey that marries French sophistication with New Zealand's finest ingredients. Each dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to celebrate the essence of French cuisine while embracing the bounty of local produce. Vegetarian options abound, ensuring everyone finds something delightful to enjoy. With a menu that evolves with the seasons such as their mouthwatering wild pork croquettes, Atelier should be on your list to visit!

Photography: Courtesy of Atelier

Apéro is a few minutes drive from the centre of Auckland, creating simple French influenced tapas style dishes in a delightful and intimate yet relaxed wine bar setting. Try the housemade sausage or goats cheese croquettes with Kamahi honey, perhaps paired with around 25 choices of wine by the glass.  

Open for lunch Friday and dinner Monday-Friday 

Photography: Courtesy of Apero Food and Wine Restaurant

Right in Auckland's downtown dining scene, The Lodge Bar & Dining is a sophisticated destination. Reflecting New Zealand's essence, it sources only the finest local ingredients. With award-winning chef Matt Lambert at the helm, the menu boasts simple, honest dishes that highlight the quality of each ingredient. Indulge in fresh oysters, squid ink spaghetti, or black Angus scotch fillet, expertly prepared over a Josper charcoal grill oven. Whether it's a post-work beer, working lunch, or celebratory dinner, The Lodge Bar & Dining offers an elevated dining experience with Kiwi flair that's sure to impress.

Photography: Courtesy of The Lodge Bar & Dining Auckland