Five Auckland Eateries to Enhance Solo Dining
Published 20 November 2024
There are many reasons why people choose to dine alone.
Some therapeutic ‘me time’. People watching. Educating your palette. Or simply enjoying your own company. Whatever your motivation, a solo gastronomic escape can be rewarding, comforting and pleasurable all at once.
Of course, there are many of us who believe that kai is a joy to be shared, and some people would recoil at the thought of entering a restaurant and saying ‘table for one, please’.
However there’s room for everyone, and solo dining does appear to be having something of a moment.
With so many fine restaurants to choose from in Tāmaki Makaurau, we’ve hand-picked five which we believe enhance what already makes the individual dining experience so special.
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If you’re one of those diners who regards sharing plates as anything but, then you’ve hit the jackpot with this exceptional Asian Fusion joint. No need to stare down the last bit of slow-cooked lamb shoulder or brisket and politely concede you’ve had your share. Another draw for the solo diner is the opportunity to take a front-row seat for where all the magic happens in the busy open kitchen.Read more -
Arguably the most industrious of Auckland’s top-drawer eateries, Amano seamlessly runs from early breakfast, to brunch, to lunch, to afternoon tea and then to its signature white tablecloth dinner service. Whatever the time of day, this is an exceptional solo dining option, with an open kitchen and views over the Waitematā Harbour offering boat as well as people-watching.Read more -
Zool Zool
405 Mount Eden Road, Mount EdenZool Zool’s quaint, relaxing and welcoming interior ensures you’ll be at one with this place the moment you walk through the door. The food is a delightful, warm embrace. Award-winning Japanese chef Toru Hirae has devised a truly exceptional menu boasting some of the finest ramen dishes in Tāmaki Makaurau.Read more -
The Federal Delicatessen
86 Federal Street, Auckland CBDBetter known as ‘The Fed’, this Jewish New York-themed diner is one of celebrity chef Al Brown’s most enduring Auckland institutions. Prop up at the bar and be hypnotised by the buzzing energy behind the counter or take a more relaxing spot at the back. Top-notch kai meets comfort food here - sit back with an authentic Reuben accompanied by a mountainous poutine and devour it all to yourself.Read more