There’s no better way to experience the heart of a city than through its belly.
Set on the Waitemata harbor, Auckland is a traveler’s delight that welcomes visitors with crystal waters, thrilling adventures and a thriving culinary scene. There’s no better way to experience the heart of a city than through its belly, but with so many options, it can be hard to narrow down which delicious spots are worthy of a stop. Below are just a few of the delectable eats that Auckland has to offer.
1. Clooney
33 Sale St Auckland, 1010, New Zealand (map, website)
Kick off the time in Auckland with a truly unique culinary experience at Clooney’s for experimental local cuisine. Located near Victoria Park, this chic, upscale restaurant creates a seasonal tasting menu that shows off the best of New Zealand offerings. Choose between a la carte options including venison tartar and te mana lamb or a full tasting menu with wine pairings, this romantic spot will get you in the Kiwi mood.
2. Orleans
48 Customs St E Britomart, Auckland 1010, New Zealand (map, website)
As a love letter to Big Easy, Orleans has brought New Orleans’ rich culinary flare to Auckland’s city central. Tucked in the bustling alley of Roukai Lane, the jammed restaurant offers savory treats like a deep fried cheeseburger, twice cooked pork belly, BBQ ribs and a waffle stack. But make sure to start off with a classic Bourbon Street Cocktail and end with their self-proclaimed “life changing pies.” Grab a table in the alley or make a reservation for the quirky décor inside, either way prepare for a lively night and music seeping through the walls as a jazz and blue-grass musician takes the stage. Also note, this cramped alley houses three other bars REC, Caretaker, and Racket Bar that make waiting for a table the easiest time passed.
3. Ostro Brasserie & Bar
52 Tyler St Auckland, 1010, New Zealand (map, website)
For refined dinning with a view of the Waitemata harbor, Ostro’s Brasserie & Bar offers a seasonal menu in a trendy atmosphere that can host any group. Options between a sleek and modern dinning room, luxurious lounge or a crisp deck, Ostro’s welcomes you for sharp cocktails and food fusions. As part of the SeaFarer’s group, the joint is connected to rooftop club Seven serving up weekend parties and daily happy hour, guaranteed to show off Auckland’s good side.
4. Ortolana
33 Tyler St Auckland, 1010, New Zealand (map, website)
Set in the Pavilions at Britomart, this charming European-inspired bistro is a delicious stop to recharge during a luxurious shopping trip through the central Auckland. It’s sun-filtered patio, lush outdoor seating and crisp cocktails top off a menu cultivated from seasonal and locally grown produce.
5. Sky Tower
Victoria St W Auckland, 1010, New Zealand (map, website)
For a truly sky-high experience, drop into the Auckland Sky Tower for a 360 view of the city while you dine. This mile high restaurant rotates each hour showing off the harbor and city lights, offering up prime dishes and views for an unforgettable dinning experience. A reservation also grants you 45 additional minutes to wander the tower’s different levels and catch visitors base jumping from the 192 metre high SkyJump at 85 km per hour or circling the tower’s outer boarders through the SkyWalk.
