Dining in Auckland

Auckland's cuisine is inventive and incredibly diverse representing the multitude of cultures that make up its population. The dominant influence is that of the Pacific Rim, so imaginative fusion restaurants are numerous here. Seafood restaurants also abound as the coastal location of Auckland means the cityalways has a wealth of fresh seafood at its disposal. Tipping is not expected however if you feel you have received very good service it is appropriate to tip 10% of the bill in a restaurant (but not in a counter-service café).

George Restaurant & Bar
Widely renowned as one of Auckland's finest restaurants, housed in the historic Windsor Castle building. Modern, inventive cuisine with eco farmed and free range food for the environmentally aware.
Address: 144 Parnell Road
Phone: (09) 358 2600

Iguacu
Trendy restaurant and bar in the chic suburb of Parnell, offers a variety of cuisine: Pacific Rim, European Fusion and South American inspired dishes. Balcony and outdoor seating available.
Address: 269 Parnell Road
Phone: (09) 358 4804

Harbourside
A chic restaurant with stunning views and delicious seafood.
Address: 99 Quay Street, First Floor Ferry Building
Phone: (09) 307 0486

Prime
Sophisticated, upscale atmosphere with modern New Zealand cuisine. Perfect for lunch or an afternoon snack at the delightful Tapas Bar.
Address: 18 Quay Street
Phone: (09) 357 0188

Dine
Top New Zealand chef, Peter Gordon returns to his roots to establish this superb restaurant serving enchanting International fusion creations.
Address: 90Federal Street, SkyCity Grand Hotel building
Phone: (09) 363 7030

Orbit Restaurant
Superb views of the city from this revolving restaurant high in the SkyTower building.
Address: SkyTower, Corner of Federal & Victoria Streets
Phone: (09) 363 6000

Sails Restaurant
A luxurious interior compliments the breathtaking views of the harbour in this award-winning restaurant.
Address: Westhaven Marina, Westhaven Drive
Phone: (09) 378 9890

Bella Restaurant & Bar
Traditional Italian food in a sleek, eclectic atmosphere.
Address: 165 Ponsonby Road
Phone: (09) 360 2656

Gion Japanese Restaurant
A stylish, chic, newly opened restaurant in the trendy Parnell area. Traditional sushi & inventive Japanese cuisine inspire at this brand new venue.
Address: 195 Parnell Road
Phone: (09)379 3344

The French Café
The French Café is consistently rated as the best fine dining restaurant in Auckland. The décor is intimate and sophisticated, and the food demonstrates owner and chef Simon Wright's total dedication to detail and quality. Contemporary European cuisine with fresh New Zealand ingredients and the wine list encompasses the best local labels as well as fine French wines. Overall, this is Auckland fine dining at its best.
Address: 210B Symonds Street
Phone: (09) 377 1911

The Engine Room
The Engine Room, on Auckland's Northcote Point, is a modern European restaurant set in a classic art deco building. The food is a blend of international peasant cuisines, modern bistro and revisited bistro classics. The local restaurant was the supreme winner of the 2007 Metro Restaurant of the Year awards.
Address: 115 Queen Street, Northcote Point, North Shore
Phone: (09) 480 9502

Toto Restaurant
The first Italian restaurant in Auckland where tradition became a solid fusion with the modern Italian cuisine of Italy. Toto conjures up an elegant spacious ambience with its white plastered walls, iron framed windowpanes and stylish black candelabra. Live opera is hosted in the restaurant every Thursday and Saturday evenings.
Address: 53 Nelson Street
Phone: (09) 302 2665

Antoine's Restaurant
Tony and Beth Astle have been running Antoin'es since 1973 and have earned the distinction of having owned and operated the longest running restaurant in New Zealand! Antoine's provides the silver service with a modern approach and has a Nostalgia menu with long-time favourites and a weekly changing menu featuring modern New Zealand cuisine with French and Asian overtones as well as seasonal New Zealand specialities.
Address: 333 Parnell Road, Parnell
Phone: (09) 379 8756

Cin Cin on Quay
Located on the street level of the historic ferry building, ideal for watching the harbour traffic while choosing from a large selection of ethnic specialties and local favourites.
Address: 99 Quay St, Ferry Building
Phone: (09) 307 6966