We live for new openings (especially the kind that involve food) and know you do, too. Fortunately, Auckland is the city that just keeps on giving when it comes to new restaurants, bars and cafes—pandemic be damned.
So without further ado here are the best new restaurant and foodie openings in Auckland, as well as a li'l peek at what's coming soon.
Now Open
BANZIHA Korean Bar & Restaurant, Grey Lynn
Ponsonby’s got a brand new hidden gem called BANZIHA that's slinging homemade soju slushies alongside an array of Korean bar eats, both big and small. Dig into a mountain of cheesy, spicy charcoaled chicken with the Volcanic Korean Chicken (cheese buldak) or curb your cravings with small bites like spicy pork back ribs (with generous meaty portions) and a light take on K-fried popcorn chicken. Of course, you can keep things classic with the likes of an elevated bibimbap, bulgogi and their selection of all-in-one meals. One thing’s for sure, their housemade soju slushies are not to be missed. They’re fruity, light and fluffy, impossibly flavoursome to the point you’ll forget they’re boozy. You’ll find BANZIHA, a Korean bar and eatery, nestled under street level just off the Ponsonby Williamson Road intersection—perfect for a pick-me-up on the way home or to hide away from the world and people watch. Drool over BANZIHA's full review including images and opening times.
Javalab, CBD
Ooh la la, a gorgeous new French patisserie has finally opened downtown and it's definitely been worth the wait. After sitting out the worst of the pandemic in a lush site on the corner of Customs and Gore Street, it's just opened its sleek doors this week. We're talking about Javalab, which is serving up incredible baked goods and a range of experimental, Fairtrade coffee brews and blends from its spot on the ground floor of the recently re-opened SO/ Auckland hotel. Authentic French treats are the name of the game here—think macarons, eclairs and croissants, along with toasted burritos and hot-pressed paninis for the savoury fans. Oui, oui, oui.
Palmer, CBD
Find food and booze in ample supply at Palmer, the swanky new bar and restaurant that's opened its doors downtown at 1 Albert Street (formerly West Plaza). Expect plenty of Palms Springs vibes (hence the name) but more importantly, an incredible menu led by next-generation Kiwi chef James Kenny—we're talking manuka martinis, savoury Italian doughnuts, mille-feuille... the only thing left to do is check it out and yes, you'll probably see us there when you do.
Barcita, Karangahape Road
Remember how our friends at Candela were working on something special? Well we can now tell you, that something special is Barcita—a super gorge secret bar and private dining space hidden out the back of the restaurant. We know you'll be as excited for this one as we are, what with its divine menu of cheeses, charcuterie and cheesecake, sitting alongside an epic selection of highballs, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic tipples. Peep Barcita's full review including images and opening times.
De Nada, Mt Eden
We love a sleek neighbourhood eatery as much as we love Mexican food and thankfully, Mt Eden Village newcomer De Nada dishes up both—with a light, fresh and chic vibe. This hot new taqueria and tequila bar comes complete with a menu full of items both authentic and elevated—think margaritas and mojitos with delectably quirky spins (lychee and raspberry margarita, anyone?) to nachos with the likes of tuna sashimi or chorizo. Don’t leave without trying the light, slightly crisped and lavishly dusted churros now will you. If it’s not for the moreish caramel and punchy dark chocolate sauces (after all, the Aztecs did pioneer chocolate), then at least let the flame as it arrives to your table be your reason for nabbing them. Scope out De Nada's full review including more images and opening times.
Parade, Ponsonby
Parade has a new haunt and we’re totally in love. Just a stone’s throw from their O.G. home on Ponsonby Road this levelled up chapter of Parade comes complete with a garden fit-out and liquor licence. Vibes. Get your mouth around their seriously tasty burgers in their signature house-made pretzel-style buns-from smashed patties and free-range chicken to seasonal vege, their exceptional extras (hellooo, loaded fries) and their cocktail jugs. Yes, jugs. Scope out Parade's full review including more images and opening times.
Mighty Hotdog, Pakuranga
Deli Di Bossi, CBD
The Bridgman, Mount Eden
Schapiro's Sports Bar, Eden Terrace
As far as sports bars go, Schapiro's is knocking it outta the park—and then some. It's the latest baby from Otis Schapiro, aka one-third of the trio behind hugely popular Grey Lynn osteria and wine bar, Lilian (and from whom Schapiro's takes its name). Schapiro's takes all the best bits about a sports bar and wraps them up in one exciting and extremely delicious new package, and we are OBSESSED. Whether you wanna head along and soak up a game (NBA and UFC are just some of what you can expect to see on the big screen), pop in for a smashie and a soda, or simply check out somewhere new, this one's an absolute winner. Scope out Schapiro's full review including images and opening times.
Good Dog Bad Dog, Onehunga
Burgernaut, Kingsland
Welcome to the home of the Vegan Classic Smash Burger, believed to be the only vegan smashie in Auckland, which is waiting for you right now at Burgernaut—the epic new burger kitchen operating out of Urbanaut Brewery in Kingsland. Choose from three game-changing mainstays (available vegan, vegetarian or with meat) or perhaps one of their insane specials, all made with housemade sauces and seasonings and in a genius yet totally sensical move, incorporating Urbanaut's beers wherever possible. Of course, the only respectable way to complete your meal here would be with a beer, served icy cold and straight from the tap for peak drinking pleasure. So bring your mates, bring your dog (that's right, good dogs are welcome) and definitely bring your appetite, because this tasty new offering is ready and just waiting to be smashed. Scope out Burgernaut's full review including images and opening times.
Grownup Donuts, Manurewa
South Auckland, you're in for a treat, because the geniuses at Grownup Donuts have just opened a brand-new store in Manurewa. This is the fourth location for the brand, which has garnered a huge following since its days trawling the city's markets. Find all of the sugary sweet Grownup goodness you know and love (including a selection of yummy vegan flavours), at 185 Great South Road.
Lucky 8, Ponsonby
A hot new speakeasy from the legends behind Mr Hao has just opened on Ponsonby Road and it has legit blown our minds. Come up the sleek black staircase framed by cute black cats and be ushered into Lucky 8—a seriously cool spot pairing exposed brick and funky neon signs (a Mr Hao signature) with deep-red leather seats, wooden tables and Asian touches reminiscent of a Shanghai Loft in the French concession. Chefs from around the world have helped create an exquisite Asian-inspired tapas menu where nothing is over $8 (and unbelievably, all the delicious cocktails will also only set you back $8). So what are you waiting for? Come check out this fun new spot, where eight is definitely a lucky number (certainly where your wallet's concerned, anyway!). Scope out Lucky 8's full review including images and opening times.
INCA, Ponsonby
Hold onto your tastebuds, Auckland restaurateur chef Nic Watt's much-loved Peruvian-style restaurant INCA has opened a sister restaurant in Ponsonby Central’s new laneway development. The restaurant boasts an open-plan feel with plenty of pink marble and details inspired by Peru's famously colourful textiles, courtesy of CTRL Space. The menu is packed full of colourful cuisine which will transport you to Peru with just one bite. Designed for sharing, we suggest grabbing a few mates and a couple of plates and you’re good to go. If you’re after a smart yet casual dining experience where you can dig in deep and get your paws dirty, then INCA is sure to satisfy. So, without further ado, pack your bags and take a trip to Peru. Scope out INCA Ponsonby's full review including images and opening times.
Slowlane, Greenlane
There's nothing wrong with taking the slow lane sometimes, especially if it involves coffee and croffles are we right? Enter Slowlane, a new all-day eatery (and our fave new foodie haven!) from &Sushi founders Isaac Yu and Jeff Kim, located—rather ironically—on the famously busy Great South Road in Greenlane. This gorgeous space, which oozes relaxed vibes with its many toitoi-like plants, neutral colour palette and breezy indoor/outdoor flow, is a welcome addition to the area and is defo the spot to unwind and indulge your appetite. There's plenty to sink your teeth into here, from brunch-time classics like granola, avo on toast, and the aforementioned croffles through to tuna ceviche, fried chicken burgers, and prawn linguine, all prepared under the watchful eye of head chef Marvin Choi (ex Euro, Fabric). Scope out Slowlane's full review including images and opening times.
Mibo Bakery, Mt Eden
Looking for an excuse to load up on baked treats? Who are we kidding, of course you are. And a new bakery in Mt Eden from the owner of Benedict's that's slinging danishes, croissants and other delicious goodies is surely it. Mibo Bakery's the name, and you'll find it at G11/30 Enfield Street.
Nanny's Eatery, Kingsland
A hot new Jamaican eatery has come to town and it's here to set your tastebuds on FIRE. Nanny's Eatery is the name, and you'll find it along the main drag in Kingsland. Yup, if you like your food exotic and with a decent hit of heat, this could be your new fave spot, with authentic Jamaican and Mexican-infused fare the order of the day. Inspired by owner and head chef JP's own Jamaican upbringing (special shoutout to his GramMa, who taught him much of what he knows in the kitchen), you'll be hard-pressed to find anything here that's not bloody delicious. Scope out Nanny's Eatery's full review including images and opening times.
Jo Bro's Burgers, Point Chevalier
Island Gelato Company, Ponsonby
Carmel | Israeli Street Food, Eden Terrace
Mumbaiwala, Ponsonby
A stunning new Indian restaurant has arrived in Ponsonby and it's transporting us straight to the bustling streets of Mumbai. Named Mumbaiwala, this is the eatery's second branch (the flagship is in Christchurch alongside their sister eatery Permit Room) and it's alive with the sights, sounds, smells and of course, tastes, of India's largest city. The award for tastiest dish goes hands-down to the Dahi Puri, which takes mini puff pastry-like shells and stuffs them with a drool-worthy combo of mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and spicy yoghurt. Dessert should never be overlooked, and here comes in the form of Chocolate Naan (like a super-upgraded Nutella-on-bread situation), Cardamom & Coconut Kulfi (think Indian frozen yoghurt), or perhaps a cheeky cocktail (our vote goes to the Bombay Colada with coconut rum, chai, coriander, pineapple, and coconut). Scope out Mumbaiwala's full review including images and opening times.
Fat Puku's Smashed Burgers, Auckland CBD
We're always down for trying out a new burger joint, especially one that's named after a cat! Enter Fat Puku's Smashed Burgers, the funky new spot that's taken over the old Al's Deli space on Queen Street. Sick fit-out aside, these burgs take inspo from the 'smashed' style that's long been a mainstay of diners and roadside burger joints in the US, and is now gaining traction here in NZ. You'll of course be wanting a drink to wash down all of that burger-y goodness, so take your pick of classic milkshake flavours, sodas, and even a selection of beers, ciders, and RTDs. What started as a food truck has now put down permanent roots in the city. Praise be. In short, if it's burgers, fries, and fun vibes you're after, Fat Puku's is the place. Scope out Fat Puku's full review including images and opening times.
Tiger Burger, Mount Eden
Tiger Burger—home to some of the city's most mouthwatering burgs—has unleashed its deliciousness on the people of Mt. Eden. The eatery, known for its epic Korean-fusion creations (two of which, the Kimcheese and Gang Jeong, earned spots in the 2021 Iconic Auckland Eats) can be found at 590 Dominion Road (its flagship is in Grey Lynn). Don't be surprised if you see the Urban List team here, throwing back said burgs and for the very first time, Tiger Burger's very own brand of Korean fried chicken.
Atelier, Karangahape Road
If you're in the mood for beautiful French food, look no further than Atelier—a gorgeous new eatery that's set up shop in what was once the Karangahape Road post office. This amazing new venture, bought to us by Kelian Monteil, Alex Petit and Marwan d’Agostino, is certainly set to impress—from the elegant yet relaxed fit-out, through to the lush and impeccably prepared menu that marries French tapas with cocktails and a wine list longer than your arm. As the French would say, magnifique! Scope out Atelier's full review including images and opening times.
Taco Medic, Ponsonby
If you're in need of some good news this week, how about this—Queenstown's beloved taco joint, Taco Medic, has landed in Ponsonby. Described as the country's first craft taqueria and with two successful stores already under its belt, this tasty new venture comes to us courtesy of cousins Anthony Wilkins and Robbie McGillivray, who fell in love with Mexican cuisine while on a surfing holiday in Puerto Escondido. Found at 130 Ponsonby Road, these tacos are anything but average–handcrafted daily and filled with the freshest, healthiest, and most amazing flavour combos. And that's not all, they also have nachos and mouthwatering sides to go with, plus the promise of $5 Taco Tuesdays... oh, and let's not forget that everything on the menu is entirely GLUTEN-FREE. Scope out Taco Medic's full review including images and opening times.
Cheese on Toast, Birkenhead
Good news, those living north of the bridge no longer have to travel for their Cheese on Toast fix. The Three Kings fave—known for its epic toasties and other treats—has opened its first store on the North Shore at 96 Hinemoa Street in Birkenhead.
The Broken Lantern, Ponsonby
Krispy Kreme, New Lynn
How's this for tasty news... Krispy Kreme has opened a brand-new store in West Auckland. New Lynn is the lucky suburb, so head on over and grab yourself a melt-in-the-mouth Original Glazed Doughnut (amongst other offerings), straight off the line—this one's a Hot Light store, which means when the 'hot now' light is on, the OG doughies are cooking! Now if we could just get find a way to sneak a drink from that famous glazing waterfall they use...
Florets, Grey Lynn
Sourdough delivery service, Florets (formerly Kōpiko) has moved into a two-storey heritage building in Grey Lynn, where fans of the holistic bread brand, run by Maya Handley—which specialises in sustainably produced loaves made from wholegrain, organic and chemical-free flour—can dine in. Expect sammies and other dishes centred around their amazing rye, oat porridge, and whole-wheat sourdough bread, loaded with gorgeous deli goods from Pomona, and brews by Flight Coffee. You can even get a behind-the-scenes look at the bread-making action when you head upstairs, via the Florets kitchen.
Frat's Pizza, Mount Albert
Mamma mia, a brand new pizza joint—Frat's Pizza—has opened on New North Road, and we're all over it. Dishing up some super fancy renditions of the beloved pizza pie featuring locally sourced ingredients on a lush sourdough base, you'll be spoilt for choice with options like Broccoli and Smoked Pancetta, Kransky (yes, as in the sausage), and the incredible sounding Cacio e Pepe (mozzarella, whipped cheese, parmesan, black pepper and truffle oil).
The Fox, Auckland Viaduct
You don't have to be an ex-pat Brit or even to have visited England to appreciate the epicness that is The Fox, a brand new London-inspired pub nestled into the corner of the Auckland Viaduct. With an edgy fit-out featuring (fake) stuffed animals, bowler hat lights, and quirky artworks of notable Brits like Queen Elizabeth II and Winston Churchill (complete with tattoos and Tommy gun, respectively). The drinks list is particularly fun, spearheaded by their 'Licence to Swill' cocktail menu. Expect plenty of classic British flavours, served up via cleverly named concoctions like the Jammie Dodger, Jaffa Martini and our personal fave, the Sherbet Honey Drop, laced with Frangelico and citrus gin. And let's not forget the hearty pub grub menu, filled with iconic British dishes like bangers and mash, pies, weekend roasts, and toad-in-the-hole. Yup, as far as London pubs go, this is possibly one of the best we've been to... and that's including its much-maligned, sticky-floored, stale beer scented counterparts in London. Scope out The Fox's full review including images and opening times.
Hawte, CBD
If you’re an ice cream lover like us, then have you heard the scoop? New Zealand’s first boozy ice cream parlour, otherwise known as a barlour, has landed in Chancery lane and we are totally here for it. Hawte is an inner-city gem that is pulling out all the stops and is scooping up a variety of naughty flavours to delight your taste buds—think mango and malibu, spiced rum Nutella, JD and dark chocolate and even a Mexican hot choc with a generous drop of tequila and chilli. The best part is it's all for the taste, so no hangovers. They’ll be swapping out their unique flavours every two weeks and if you’re not the boozy kind then no worries, there are alcohol-free options available too—we couldn't get enough of the Whittaker’s creamy milk. Originating from India, Hawte stands for ‘Have A Wonderful Time Every Time’ and let’s just say that’s exactly what you’ll have.
Wise Boys, Grey Lynn
Okay so technically this one isn't a new opening, more of a new look. Vegan burger bosses, Wise Boys have ditched their old fish-and-chip shop style fit-out in Grey Lynn and replaced it with a slick new storefront and enclosed dining space—the perfect excuse to swing by and try out their new summer menu, featuring the country's first-ever plant-based smash patty (helllll yes).
Bardello, CBD
From coconut crumpets and a charcuterie breakfast plate to Cloudy Bay clams and manchego croquettes, Bardello is dishing up flavour-packed Mediterranean fare, all day every day from its coveted position on the corner of lower Albert and Quay Streets. We're looking forward to pulling up a seat on the patio and enjoying one of their breakfast cocktails with our brunch (helloooo Bloody Mary!), then visiting later in the day for tapas and a cocktail proper.
The Muriwai Deli, Muriwai
West Auckland is serving up the goods in a big way this week, with the hotly-anticipated opening of The Muriwai Deli. A collab between legendary coffee and pudding truck, Double Shot (world famous in this particular neck of the woods for their insane doughnuts and other delights) and another dynamo of the food truck scene, Double Parked (winners of Auckland's Most Sustainable Food Truck in 2020 and purveyors of seriously ace burgers, salads, tacos and more), this one has us feeling PUMPED. You'll find this rad new spot located inside the 99-year-old Muriwai Lodge, serving up everything from coffee and sammies to toasties and sweet treats (including, yes, those famous doughnuts). Pro tip: walk off all those inevitable calories with a stroll along Muriwai Beach afterwards.
Green Door Pizza, Commercial Bay
We literally squealed with excitement when we saw an Instagram post announcing that new pizza joint Green Door Pizza was coming to town from the crew behind Good Dog Bad Dog (who, btw, are absolutely killing it at the hot dog game—just look at our other new openings). This drool-worthy venture has been popping up at Newmarket fave, The Candy Shop, throughout lockdown and is this week opening a store of its very own inside Commercial Bay. The cool fit-out, curated by Gerrick Numan and the team at Millé Interiors, channels classic pizza parlour vibes with neon lights and red and white checkered details. As for the food, these pizzas are about as far from chain-bought as you can get, coming in a short but sweet selection of delicious options including an insane mortadella number with guindilla chillies and stracciatella which you can buy whole or by the slice. Wash it all down with a glass of natural wine or beer, which they have on tap.
No. 1 Pancake, Rosedale
If, like us, you wept for weeks when the hugely popular No. 1 Pancake shut its store in the CBD earlier this year, have we got news for you. The eatery—who have a cult-like following thanks to their cheap yet delicious Korean-style pancakes or 'hotteok', stuffed with everything from cinnamon-spiced brown sugar caramel with ground peanuts through to creamy mashed potatoes blended with sour cream and melted cheese—have re-opened on Airborne Road in Rosedale. See you in the queue!
Camper Coffee, Commercial Bay
Newmarket fave, Camper Coffee have set up shop in Commercial Bay. You'll find them on the ground floor, serving up some of the best coffee of your life between 8am-4pm daily from a cute hole-in-the-wall space designed once again by our friends at Millé Interiors.
Blend Cafe, Botany
We’ve found the perfect brunch spot for you to sink your teeth into—say hello to Blend, a classy eatery in Botany that’s dishing out all the goods. The menu is a foodie haven and offers a twist on traditional cafe food. The impressive lineup consists of a Korean take on the cult fave spag bol, a finger-licking crispy fried chicken, Kimchi fried rice with scrambled eggs, a pecking braised lamb bowl—and that’s just to name a few. Don’t get us started on the epic cabinet selection, which is filled to the brim with homemade swiss roll cakes, snickers cakes and fruit loop cream croissants that’ll simply blow your mind. Alongside the food we totally dig the decor, designed by Millé—it’s simple yet inviting. So, if you’re looking for a hip new place to treat your taste buds then add Blend to the top of your list, we promise it won’t disappoint.
Sumthin Dumplin, Botany
Now for those who know Sumthin Dumplin, then you know that their little juicy morsels are to die for. Owner Shane Liu first opened the much-loved eatery on O’Connell street and due to his homemade dumps being in hot demand, he opened a second spot on Wellesley Street. Well boy have we got news for you—a third Sumthin Dumplin spot is taking over Botany. With all our fave dumplings on the menu including the much-loved beef and cheese, we can’t contain our excitement. Decked out by the talented Millé, the new interior is dishing out serious 90’s hip-hop vibes and we can’t get enough. So, if you have a serious dumpling craving and a love for all things hip-hop, then head to Botany to check out Sumthin Dumplin’s latest venue and get your much-needed fix.
Mighty Hotdog, Royal Oak
Remember those insane hot dogs on a stick, deep-fried to perfection, rolled in sugar (yes, sugar) and covered in lashings of sauce? Well, now Mighty Hotdog (creators of said treats whose flagship is in Chancery Square) have now opened their second store in Royal Oak and we're beyond stoked. With 10 savoury concoctions on the menu (until you add the sugar of course) including our fave the cheese rocket, the nacho, and any sausage variation, you should definitely make sure to leave room for the almighty dessert dogs featuring none other than Moro and Snickers bars. Prepare for the ultimate sugar high.
Miann, Ponsonby
Dessert experts, Miann have added to their existing stores in Morningside, Fort Street and Britomart with a brand-new branch in Ponsonby Central. This dedicated dessert bar is bringing a serious injection of sugar to Ponsonby, with a much-loved (and incredibly delicious!) selection of gelato, cakes, macarons, doughnuts, bean-to-bar chocolate and more, coveted by sweet tooths the city over. Look for the fun mural displayed across the front window, which you may recognise from their boxes of highly addictive hot choccy mix.
Good Dog Bad Dog, Pt Chev
First, it was Commercial Bay, then it was Ormiston, now it's Pt Chev's turn to get in on the Good Dog Bad Dog action. Chances are you're already well acquainted with these OTT saussies—you know, the ones dripping in a tonne of chilli mince and mac 'n' cheese. And don't even get us started on their hoagies (two thumbs up for the fried chicken). Onehunga, we hear you're up next, so watch this space.
Coming Soon
Origine, Commercial Bay
If, like us, you've been waiting with bated breath to see what becomes of the rather mammoth space left behind by Saxon + Parole, wonder no longer—'cos celeb chef and restauranteur, Ben Bayly, is moving in. Yup, Ben and his good friend Chris Martin (who together own the amazing Ahi), along with their respective wives Cara and Lucile, will be opening a new French-inspired bistro called Origine here in early August. Expect a menu inspired by France's most famous dishes, curated from the freshest and best New Zealand ingredients. We can't wait to find out more.
Bar Albert, CBD
The brand-new voco Auckland City Centre will be home to New Zealand's highest rooftop bar come August. Dubbed Bar Albert, this hot new spot will sit on the 38th floor of the hotel and joins its impressive all-day eatery, Mozzarella & Co, in making it a must-visit destination for food and drink alike.
Taco Medic, CBD
Tok Tok, Greenlane
Bossi At The Pacifica, CBD
Auckland's tallest residential tower, The Pacifica, will be home to a high-end authentic Italian eatery come October. Named Bossi, this combined restaurant, bar and private function space is set to be THE location for living la dolce vita, transporting diners to the heart of Italy courtesy of its CTRL Space-led design, featuring an open-plan kitchen and rustic yet sophisticated surrounds—combined with warm hospitality and seriously feast-worthy food, prepared under the watchful eye of chef Shaun Dowling. This will join a newly opened authentic Italian deli called Deli di Bossi (see Now Open, above).
A new rooftop bar at the Sudima Hotel, CBD
An as-yet-unnamed bar is coming to the rooftop of the Sudima Hotel on Nelson Street. Boasting contemporary Palm Springs-y interiors courtesy of design experts, CTRL Space, this stylish new spot in the CBD will boast a plant-based menu, incredible cocktails, live DJ entertainment and of course, sweeping city vistas.
Image credit: Jamin Drupsteen.