Auckland’s Best New Restaurant Openings In 2022 You Need To Know About

By Kathryn Steane
12th May 2022

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

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

First it was the CBD, then it was Royal Oak, now it's Pakuranga's turn to welcome Mighty Hotdog to the neighbourhood. You'll find them at 131 Pepler Street, Pakuranga Plaza, slinging their highly addictive brand of Korean-style hotdogs on a stick (that means fried to perfection, rolled in sugar-yes, sugar-then loaded with your fave sauces and other toppings). Hot damn.

Deli Di Bossi, CBD

Treat yourself to the good life at Deli di Bossi, an authentic Italian deli that's just opened as part of The Pacifica, Auckland's tallest residential tower and which will be joined later in the year by a fine dining restaurant, bar, and private function space also under the Bossi name (see Coming Soon, below). Carb-load to your heart's content with freshly-baked bread and pasta, create the charcuterie board of your dreams with lush meats and cheeses, or simply swing by for a cup of coffee and a cannoli. And don't forget to check out their selection of Cicchetti, aka traditional Italian street food.

The Bridgman, Mount Eden

What do you get when you breathe new life into an old classic? A fancy AF bar and bistro with which we're completely and utterly obsessed, that's what. We're talking about the space previously held by The Dominion, which has recently received a luxurious facelift and a new name to boot—The Bridgman. Think interiors that are unapologetically extra, a bar pouring all sorts of delish tipples, and a menu focusing on classic pub grub, but not as you know it. Pre- or post-game drinking spot, lunch or dinner destination, or for a lucky few, your new local—this fresh take on an old fave is ticking all the right boxes. Scope out The Bridgman's full review including images and opening times.

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

Good Dog Bad Dog's empire of deliciousness continues to expand, with the team opening yet another store (their fourth, joining those in Commercial Bay, Ormiston and Pt. Chevalier) in Onehunga. Get your hands on all of the GDBD goodness you know and love at 178-182 Onehunga Mall Road—our go-to is the fried chicken hoagie, followed by a round of deep-fried Oreos.

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

The boys at Jo Bro's Burgers have done it again, adding a second brick-and-mortar store to their belt and this time 'round it's Point Chevalier that's the lucky suburb. If you're yet to be acquainted with the Jo Bro's brand, here's what you need to know: it's run by two chefs, Brody and Josh, who between them have a wealth of industry experience (Brody worked at SkyCity for over a decade while Josh has also worked at SkyCity and in a number of Michelin-starred eateries overseas) and started the business as a food truck back in 2020 before going on to open their first store as part of Titirangi's legendary Street Feast food hall last year. The secret to their success? Deliciously simple burgers that don't mess with tradition—think juicy, sustainable beef patties, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato and onion, doused in their very own Jo Bro's Original burger sauce (which, btw, took five years to perfect) then slapped between two freshly-baked fluffy potato buns. Get your hands on these game-changing burgs at 35 Point Chevalier Road, in the spot previously occupied by Red Snapper.

Island Gelato Company, Ponsonby

Ponsonby has welcomed the arrival of Island Gelato Company, which ice cream fiends will know has multiple stores across Auckland including its flagship shop on Waiheke Island. Specialising in fresh, seasonal handmade gelato (and jaw-dropping gelato cakes!), this charming new spot is a great place to escape the summer heat while eating your body weight in ice-cold treats.

Carmel | Israeli Street Food, Eden Terrace

Street food royalty, Carmel | Israeli Street Food, have put down permanent roots in Eden Terrace. These guys have been a stalwart of the market scene for several years now thanks to their famously fluffy pitas (the falafel is particularly exceptional) and rugelach croissants, which you'll find at their brand new spot on France Street.

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

Well, ain't this just the end-of-year pick-me-up we needed! There's a new bar in town from the folks behind Viaduct fave, Parasol & Swing. Taking up residence on the spot that was formerly Little Easy, The Broken Lantern is slinging craft beers, organic and natural wines, insane cocktails and a next-level food menu (if you've dined at Parasol & Swing, you'll know just how incredible their grub is). The Art Department are responsible for the fit-out, which blends the building's 100-year heritage with Lower East Side vibes, including a mural that will change every six months to suit the season—wowza! Add to that a glorious sun-drenched garden out back, and we're already thinking it could be our new fave drinking spot. P.S. These guys are also set to open distinct new areas upstairs so watch this space for more details.

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

Taco Medic, CBD

Auckland's appetite for Taco Medic is growing, literally. The gluten-free taco brand, which started life as a food truck in Queenstown and opened the doors to its first Auckland store on Ponsonby Road in January, is set to introduce a second location in the coming months on the corner of Quay and Albert Streets. Tacos on the waterfront? It's like they read our minds.

Tok Tok, Greenlane

A little birdie told us that Takapuna and Hobsonville fave, Tok Tok is coming to Greenlane. Details on this one are still a lil' scarce but for now, we're satisfied with knowing that we'll soon have another location to get our hands on their delectable Asian-fusion fare.

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: Larryn Rae.

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