Best Waterfront Dining Spots in Auckland

The Parasol & Swing is one of Auckland’s most iconic rooftop and waterfront cocktail bars. It is the perfect spot for sipping yummy drinks, watching the sunset over Auckland’s harbour, and digging into their comfort food menu. Offering burgers, fish tacos, and shared plates, along with a curated craft cocktail list, Parasol & Swing delivers an unmatched, vibrant atmosphere that melts into a party when the sun goes down.

Seamlessly blending day and night, tangling coffee and cocktails, Wynyard Pavilion is a great choice for Auckland waterfront dining. Right on the edge of the water, there is a sun-soaked garden bar and a bistro inspired by a yacht club. Tuck into a menu of seafood and fresh produce, all while the sea breeze curls around you, and boats float by.

Overlooking Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, Sails Restaurant is an award-winning and family-owned waterfront spot. With views of both the sparkling marina and the city skyline, the atmosphere is a perfect blend of elegant and cosy. The menu has a focus on Kiwi seafood, and their roasted crayfish is a fan favourite. With plenty of wine, Sails Restaurant is a lovely waterfront restaurant for lunch or dinner.

Tucked at the eastern end of Waiheke Island, Man O’ War perches over the Auckland Harbour. Offering intimate beachfront views and a sweeping vineyard landscape, Man O’ War is romantic, poignant, and a unique waterfront dining experience. Sample wine on the water and indulge in a seasonal menu at one of Auckland’s most iconic wineries, where sun, sea, and a relaxing ambience craft an elegant dining experience.

Just a stone’s throw from the Auckland CBD, Azabu is a Japanese restaurant nestled along the sparkling shores of Mission Bay. The stone building unravels a traditional Japanese dining experience, with a unique and vibrant Peruvian flair. The menu takes guests on a culinary journey of flavour, including sushi and sashimi. The restaurant boasts earthy tones and warm, glowing lanterns overhead. With the waves splashing on the beach right out, the atmosphere is unmatched.

The Oyster Inn is a charming and homely coastal restaurant on Waiheke Island. Located within Oneroa village, overlooking the water, The Oyster Inn exudes a familial hospitality experience. Each dish highlights Waiheke Island’s abundance of seafood, as they serve up locally sourced ingredients and oysters. This spot hones in on fresh and simple flavours that leave you feeling warm and fuzzy, all with a view of the bay framed by the beautiful Pohutakawa trees.

Nestled along Auckland’s waterfront, Portofino Viaduct takes diners on an authentic journey of Italian cuisine. Pairing exquisite wines with the bold and robust flavour of Italy, Portofino is a favourite amongst locals and visitors to the city alike. Brothers Gino and Kiro have been the first-generation owners of the waterfront restaurant for over 40 years, upholding its legacy and delivering tradition paired with elegant service in a sophisticated and lively atmosphere.

Across Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, Tokyo Bay sits on Takapuna Beach, overlooking the sea and the towering Rangitoto Island. The menu delivers a modern and authentic experience of Japanese cuisine, without the distraction of fusions. The focus is on traditional flavour and ingredients. With a seaside view, Tokyo Bay is a great choice for an authentic dining experience on Auckland’s waterfront.