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Restaurants

The Best Italian Restaurants In Auckland For 2024

Dive into Urban List's top picks for the best Italian restaurants in Auckland.

What's On

What’s On In Auckland This Week, This Month And This Year 2024

Auckland is pulling out all the stops this month. Here’s what’s on in Auckland this week, this month, and this year. 

Things To Do

7 Of The Best Escape Rooms In Auckland To Break Out Of

Sick of being a passive bystander in a movie theatre? Perhaps it’s time to become the lead in your own story.

Where to stay

Abstract Hotel

Tucked away just off Karangahape Road is a boutique hotel known as Abstract. As its name suggests, Abstract brings a fresh perspective to the local hotel scene (and staycays) standing out from the crowd not least due to its tasteful theatre-inspired aesthetic. 

Food & Drink

Margo’s

Margo's has emerged from the ashes of the ol’ Thirsty Dog, complete with lush olive-green banquette seating lining sun-facing windows, pops of indoor greenery, organic cotton and rice paper lamp shades. 

Restaurants

Good Luck Club

It’s your lucky day every day at the Good Luck Club. 

Food & Drink

Turtle: Pizza & Pints

Tucked away in the bustling heart of Greenlane, surrounded by a sea of office buildings, lies Turtle: Pizza and Pints—a hidden gem that might just be missed if one isn’t in the know. 

North America

Here’s 9 Sporting Experiences To Tick Off Your Bucket List While You’re In LA

With eleven pro sports teams, landmark arenas and magnificent weather all year round, Los Angeles offers endless opportunities to get your sporting fix.

Things To Do

What’s On In Wellington In 2024

Arts and culture capital of Aotearoa, Te Whanganui-a-Tara is packed with an epic lineup of things to do.

Restaurants

Auckland’s Best New Restaurant Openings Of 2024 You Need To Know About

We live for new openings (especially the kind that involves food) and know you do, too. Fortunately, Auckland is the city that just keeps on giving when it comes to new restaurants, bars, cafes and bakeries—we really are a lucky bunch.

Fitness

Red Room

Neon-lit workout spaces appear to be on the rise and, as a Personal Trainer who self-identifies as a Disco Moth, I couldn't be happier.

Restaurants

GOAT - From India, With Love

Located in the old Misters Real Food digs on Wyndham Street, GOAT—short for "Greatest of All Taste" with love, from India—is a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss.

Food & Drink

Norma Taps

There’s now one more reason to head to Auckland’s City Works Depot and that’s the addition of Norma Taps, located just a mere 20-second stroll from the legendary Best Ugly Bagels, this dapper new spot has quickly become a local favorite.

Restaurants

Hanoi Haven

Traditional Vietnamese cuisine has traversed the Pacific to find a new home on Hurstmere Road, where it's been given a contemporary (and potentially Auckland-best) makeover. This elevated take on what is undoubtedly some of the world's most flavoursome food can be found at Hanoi Haven—a chic new eatery that's replaced the now-unrecognisable Bird On A Wire spot, fronting Takapuna's Fortieth & Hurstmere laneway.

Things To Do

Pair Rooftop Dining With Retail Therapy At This Inner City Precinct

Smattered across four and a bit floors, Westfield Newmarket is Auckland’s only rooftop dining precinct, shopping, eating and playing to take on such luxurious form. Where else can you window shop a designer bag, mid-pedicure, while being an escalator away from a round of rooftop fresh oysters?

Pets

The Best Pet-Friendly Camping In New Zealand For That Last-Minute Getaway

There are some excellent pet-friendly campgrounds scattered around New Zealand that are happy to welcome both you and your furry ones.

Pets

The Best Dog Walkers In Auckland For A Happy Pooch

So it not your doggo’s first rodeo when it comes to walkies. But there are walkies and then there are walkies, if you catch our drift.

Food & Drink

ChaBliss

An idyllic tea space has brought all the comfort and ease of the Third Space to a champagne glass. Here, life pauses. Here, it’s all about drinking tea and blissing out. In fact, that’s exactly what the name means ‘cha’ being the Chinese word for tea and ‘bliss’, well, we could all do with more of that on the daily. 

Restaurants

Katsu Katsu

Hankering for something golden and crispy? Look no further than this certified Newmarket favourite.

Restaurants

Sammy’s Deli and Diner

Sammy’s Deli and Diner is your new go-to for feel-good food and easy-going vibes. Picture a spot where warmth meets style, and traditional comfort food gets a playful twist. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely dinner, Sammy's has you covered with its welcoming atmosphere and hearty kai. 

Restaurants

Smoking Shack

From the smoky depths of Grey Lynn, there’s a new pitmaster in town—and a hot contender for the best BBQ joint of the year.

Pets

The Best New Zealand Made Dog Treats For Rewarding Good Pups

When your doggo’s done the mahi, they ought to get the treats. But not just any treats, your canine’s deserving of only the best. 

Pets

10 Dog Adoption Centres In Auckland Where You Can Find Your New Best Friend

We've compiled a list of the top places to adopt a dog in Auckland so you can be part of the solution.

Local Escapes

The Most Dog-Friendly Beaches In Auckland

Who loves the salt, sand and sea more than us humans? Our furry best friends of course. That's why we've got to get them out and about at the most dog-friendly beaches in Auckland.

Restaurants

Hazy Tiger

It’s impossible to miss the giant neon-lit tiger as you wander up Durham Street West. The glowing cat signals a departure from your daily—cross the threshold and you’ll find yourself in Hazy Tiger, a trippy wonderland of Korean eats and sip-worthy libations. 

Restaurants

Bon Pinard

Sarah Macdonald has a grounding energy about her. Astonishing given she’s the co-founder of not one but three eateries—an impressive feat in any climate but especially so in the current economy. 

Bars & Pubs

Isle On Snickel

Venture down one of the smallest, most secret lanes in Auckland CBD and you’ll happen upon a bar and cellar you won’t want to leave. Sitting pretty among a florist and botanical gift shop, a Thai vegan eatery, a Japanese restaurant, and a barista, Isle On Snickel completes a micro-climate that’s a welcome relief from the frenetic energy of the city. 

Food & Drink

XièXiè Ponsonby

As if Ponsonby Road wasn’t already our go-to for all things eating, dining and shopping, this foodie precinct / Ponsonby paradise has welcomed a new contemporary Chinese restaurant to the area.

Wellness

16 Of The Best Dog Parks In Auckland And Where To Find Them

It’s a well-known fact that we here at Urban List love our pooches and so we’ve rounded up some of Auckland’s best dog-friendly parks because—let’s face it—your dog’s already peed on all the trees at your local. So, treat your pup and take them to the best dog parks in Auckland.

Pets

Adopt, Don’t Shop With The Best Cat Adoption Centres In New Zealand

The best things in life are furry, so we've compiled a list of the top places to adopt a cat in New Zealand so you can help a kitty in need.

Food & Drink

The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants And Bars In Auckland

Show your pup some love and reward them for being a good boy or girl at these dog-loving establishments.

Fashion

Diamonds on Richmond

One of Auckland’s top boutique jewellers, Diamonds on Richmond presents a beautiful collection of designs from the classic to the unique. The helpful team of jewellers can also work with you to create the perfect for that special someone (or yourself!).

Restaurants

Sum Made

If you're looking for a buzzing spot for lunch and dinner in Albany, look no further than Sum Made. 

Bars & Pubs

Nami Record Bar

Rising from the proverbial ashes of the old Conch digs, Nami Record Bar might just be your next favourite hangout. It’s certainly one of ours. 

Restaurants

Impression Restaurant

Following their success in Dunedin, the team behind the popular Chinese restaurant Impression Manor has opened a new eatery in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

Pets

4 Wallet-Friendly Must-Haves For Your Pets This Season

It’s getting chilly out there, and while we pile on the layers, we often forget our furry friends need the same care when it comes to keeping warm during winter.

Pets

Everything You Need To Know About Your First Year As A Pet Parent

Whether it’s a new puppy and kitten or you’re rescuing an older pet from your local adoption centre—the first year of pet ownership can be pretty intense. Read on for some top tips on pet parenthood from our very own team of animal lovers.

Pets

Our Pets Share How They Stay Happy While Their Humans Are At Work

Nothing triggers guilt like the puppy or kitten eyes you get when leaving your pet for work

Food & Drink

Queens Rooftop Bar & Wineshop

When *everyone* gets a rooftop spot with stunning harbour views, you know you’re in for a treat. Queens Rooftop, the 360-degree, sky-high wrap-around bar atop the Deloitte building and Commercial Bay is Auckland’s newest grand dame. 

Restaurants

Cibo

The grande dame of Auckland dining is officially 30, and every bit as flirty and thriving. 

Restaurants

Advieh

You would be hard-pressed to find a restaurant that ticks as many boxes as Advieh, the latest gem from acclaimed Chef Gareth Stewart. 

Cafes

Toasty

Never have we ever had a toasted sandwich quite like Toasty's.

Restaurants

The Best Restaurants In Auckland Right Now

At Urban List, we've spent a lot of time thinking about what makes the difference between a good restaurant and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland's very best. 

Things To Do With Kids

14 Fun Things To Do In Auckland With Kids This October

Ah, October. The sweet scent of Halloween is in the air... and with it, the familiar fragrance of school holidays. Whatever the occasion, we have you and your mini-me's sorted. From dressing up and walking the 'pink' carpet in honour of the world's most famous doll, to taking a crack at the most talked about sport of the Olympics (breakdancing), there's a whole bunch of things to keep the kids— and big kids—happy.

What's On

20 Ways To Show Your Support For Breast Cancer Awareness This October

It’s not too late to rally the troops, or just yourself, to raise a bit of cashola for this totally worthy and far-too-close-to-home cause.

Cafes

Hill House Cafe

When the Manurewa-based eatery Hill House Cafe got its marching orders from Nathan Homestead for seismic works our collective hearts dropped. But, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Hill House has announced that they are moving to a new historic home—Pah Homestead in the stunning Monte Cecilia Park in Hillsborough. Hell yes. 

Restaurants

War Pacific Island Fusion

Tucked away above Parnell Road, you'll find War Pacific Island Fusion. Here, traditional Fijian cuisine is given a thoroughly modern makeover, resulting in incredible fusion-style dishes that you won't find anywhere else in Auckland (and arguably, the country)—served with a generous sprinkling of island flair. The brainchild of chef and owner Krisneel Chand who's spent over 14 years perfecting his craft in five-star resorts in Fiji, WAR (wild and raw) is his gift to the people of Auckland.

Bakeries & Delis

Gloria’s

As Gloria's closed its Karangahape Road doors late last year, we were left with quite possibly the worst Christmas present on record. However, we’re back in the good books for 2024 as the sandwich shop has emerged in a brand-spanking new iteration in Auckland's Commercial Bay.

Restaurants

Noble Rot

Noble Rot ain't your average wine bar (though you probably surmised that from the name). Evidenced in the countless accolades it has received since opening, which include Cuisine Magazine's 'Best Wine Experience in NZ' for three years running, there really is no better spot to enjoy a glass in Welly.

Hiking The Kepler Track: A Guide To New Zealand’s Iconic Tramp

Explore the stunning Fiordland National Park on an epic three to four-day tramping adventure.

What's On

What’s On In Christchurch In 2024

Whether you love getting amongst the arts or prefer to eat your way around town, Ōtautahi’s got something for you. Here are the best events happening in Christchurch in 2024.

Restaurants

Where To Grab A Pre-Show Bite In Auckland City

There’s no shortage of events and entertainment available in Tāmaki Makaurau from comedy shows and international superstars to theatre, or just a good ol' gig, we’re spoiled for choice. With that in mind, there’s one thing every music lover, theatre enthusiast, art fan, or comedy connoisseur needs: a satisfying pre-show bite.

Restaurants

Fratelli

Italian food always makes our blood run hot, especially the kind coming out of the kitchen at beloved Wellington eatery, Fratelli.

Restaurants

Fife Lane

Fife Lane is like your local steakhouse, on steroids (and was, in fact, named one the World's 101 Best Steak Restaurants for 2023). This Tauranga gem brings together incredible food and wine in a super chic setting, with a bespoke glass meat locker and dedicated wine room all adding to the experience.

Restaurants

Embra

It's been a hot minute since we had anything served to us beneath a cloche. At Embra, however, presentation is paramount so that means yes, you may encounter the occasional cloche—or perhaps shellfish bisque topped with an entire crab, albacore tuna tartare buried beneath rye crumbs and enoki mushrooms to mimic a garden, black-and-white-striped squid cannelloni, and pithiviers so beautiful, they wouldn't look out of place on the royal dining tables of old (see picture, above). We believe the proper term for this kind of cuisine is 'fine dining on steroids'.

Restaurants

Palate

After serving the people of Waikato for close to two decades, Palate has recently moved into a funky new premises at SkyCity Hamilton. Recognised by its greenery-clad exterior and neon yellow sign, we're already anticipating that this new version of an old favourite will be here for many more years to come.

Food & Drink

The Best Bottomless Brunch Spots In Auckland Right Now (2024 Edition)

Ahhh brunch, the perfect blend of breakfast and lunch we just can’t get enough of, which is lucky because the brunch game is strong in Tāmaki Makaurau.

Things To Do

Everything You Need To Know About The Free Hair Styling Pop-Up Hitting Newmarket

To give you a taste of lush, effortless hair, this month Shark Beauty is showing off their best range of good hair day promising tools in an exclusive Newmarket pop-up. 

U:L Recommends

The Best Jewellers In Auckland And Where To Find Them

Few things in life come close to the excitement of receiving jewellery. The box, the silky lining, the glamour of it all—nothing compares. Here are a few of our favourite jewellers in Tāmaki Makaurau for you to chase that thrill. 

Restaurants

Koji

Any restaurant that sees fit to serve doughnuts for dinner is our kind of spot (savoury doughnuts no less, pumped full of yellow curry beef and 'glazed' with kewpie mayo—see the mouthwatering evidence, above).

Restaurants

Londo

We're a sucker for a pretty cocktail, which means we're in big trouble when we visit Londo—because this spot has pretty cocktails coming out of its proverbial ears. Think ruby-hued clover clubs, whiskey sours the colour of sunshine and a strawberry tequila fizz that's dangerously reminiscent of the ice cream floats of our youth.

Restaurants

5th Street

Christchurch, you're a lucky bunch with a restaurant like 5th Street in your midst. Whatever your foodie inclinations (pasta and natural wine, steak and beer, or perhaps even fried chicken washed down with a cocktail), this stylish venue has you sorted.

Restaurants

Otto

Still rocking the Auckland Italian food scene, Otto (formerly Cotto) is one of the top Italian restaurants in the city. This spot showcases that Italian food doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag, with their menu ranging from $8-$28 and every single dish tasting like a million bucks. 

Restaurants

Everything You Need To Know About SkyCity’s Served

In this economy, barely anything can top the excitement of free parking. But SkyCity's served us twice over with the holy grail itself, plus an exciting new addition to October and November's epicurean calendar. Enter: Served, two massive months of feasting. 

Local Escapes

The Best Glamping Spots In New Zealand To Rest Your Head

Battling with guy ropes, losing pegs and trying to figure out where you should even position the damn thing makes tenting not a walk in the park. But never fear—fallouts and deflating air beds will become a thing of the past when you get your glamping pants on. 

Best Of

Where To Find Auckland’s Best Matcha, According To Two Matchaholics

Whether you’re a matcha convert or you’re curious about the vibrant green tea that's taken the world by storm, Tāmaki Makaurau has you sussed. Let's find your perfect match-a. 

Food & Drink

Ember And The Aviary At The Grand Millennium

Vibrant cocktails meet contemporary dining at Ember restaurant and The Aviary cocktail bar.

Restaurants

Vietflames

Prepare to experience the flavours of Saigon at Việtflames, where you can get your fix of Vietnamese food without even stepping on a plane. Located in Sylvia Park, this eatery has reopened in a new location in the heart of the popular Mount Wellington shopping mall. 

Food & Drink

Hustle BBQ

A brand new Chinese BBQ with a difference has opened in Newmarket.

Where to stay

Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel

A brand new, five-star hotel has opened at Auckland Airport and it’s set to turn what you thought you knew about airport hotels on its head. Overlooking the buzzing international terminal with spectacular runway views and out to the Manukau Heads, Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland is a fascinating place to spend a few hours, a day or a night.