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Formally a mezzanine micro-studio perched above a hairdressers in Auckland CBD, So Fitness has got some brand new digs and we’re here for it. 

Sitting pretty on a corner site in Greenlane is Pikuniku, a cute new neighbourhood eatery dishing up brunch with a delicious Japanese twist. 

The hottest ticket in town right now is Ooh-Fa—a brand-new pizza and wine bar from the masterminds behind Karangahape Road's phenomenally popular pasta joint, Pici. That's right fam, in what could be the most genius move of 2022, the team that acquainted us with cacio e pepe and olive oil cheesecake have opened a dedicated pizzeria on Dominion Road.

Bringing a slice of the best hotel bars in the world to Tāmaki Makaurau, Sunset is now open atop Sudima Hotel on Nelson Street.

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.

Very few things rival the wholesome feeling that comes with stumbling upon a wine bar. The intrigue of wall-to-floor bottles, hiding from the world in a cosy nook, discovering drops by the glass. The possibilities are endless—and that’s before you so much as glance over the bites menu or later prance out the door, with a new favourite bottle under your arm. 

Auckland’s BYO scene has a bold new addition. It’s bright, it’s beautifully decorated, and it’s bursting with flavourful dishes. Simply put, it’s time to grab a bottle and pop by Java (formerly It's Java). 

If you’re a pilates addict or a cardio junkie, you’ll know that while both kinds of workouts are body sculpting in their own way, both are missing something. Pilates gets you that beast-level core and perky glutes, but it doesn’t really get the heart racing, while a good HIIT or cardio session will burn calories and have you out of breath—but won’t help you achieve long lean muscles and serious core stability. 

Striking a balance between chic, casual, and a touch quirky is a tricky one to master. Mt Eden Village’s newcomer, De Nada, however, is ticking the fresh, fun and fabulous boxes as their taqueria and tequila bar doors swing right open to offer a contemporary spin on a much-loved cuisine.

There's something rather special about The Kosher Deli, and the name is a major clue. This delightful find on Greys Avenue is actually the country's only kosher deli and we reckon that's reason alone to wanna visit.

Here at Urban List, brunching is one of our favourite past-times. That said, sniffing out new spots in which to indulge this delicious hobby is forever on our minds, which is where Sparrow comes in. We've only just discovered this cute lil' cafe, nestled in an unlikely spot amongst Epsom's car dealerships, but we're already firm fans.

Taking pride of place on an elevated corner site in Royal Oak, Five Elements Café Bistro is a great spot to watch the world go by while enjoying an elevated menu boasting original fare that punches well above its weight. Now open for evening service offering tapas and hearty main dishes—the slow-braised lamb shoulder is particularly good—bring some mates and order a few dishes to share.

Just when you thought there was no way you could love Karangahape Road's lush Spanish/Latin American inspired eatery and wine bar Candela more than you do already, they go and open macking new bar and balcony Barcita. Follow the bar to the back of the restaurant and you'll find this cute-as-a-button space awaiting you with open arms. With a separate bar and tapas menu, nab yourself a pozzie in the open air with views of the Sky Tower. If you fancy the space all to yourself—we don't blame you—you can also hire it for your exclusive use and private events seven days a week. Schmick.

First, it was Auckland 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.

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 (an Auckland icon and particular fave with sporting crowds thanks to its proximity to Eden Park), which has recently received a luxurious facelift, and a new name to boot—The Bridgman.

As far as sports bars go, Schapiro's is knocking it outta the park—and then some. Yup, this exciting new venture at 224 Symonds Street (previously home to Save Ferris) is scoring big points with team Urban List and here's why. Number one, 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, of course, Schapiro's takes its name).

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. 

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. INCA Newmarket is known for serving up quality Latin American fare with a unique Asian twist and Nic Watt’s new establishment is certainly no different. Shaking up the Ponsonby food scene, INCA is serving up some much-loved signature items like their freshly cured ceviche but also brings some new and exciting dishes to the table. The menu is packed full of colourful cuisine which will transport you to Peru with just one bite. Think big, bold, and boisterous flavours that will awaken your palate.

Imagine this: a juicy smash burger pattie loaded with pickles, cheddar 'cheese' and diced onions, dripping in creamy secret sauce then smooshed between two toasted potato buns. Now imagine this: that same burger is entirely vegan. Surely something so delicious doesn't exist? Wrong. Because there's a burger of that very description (the Vegan Classic Smash Burger, believed to be the only vegan smashie in Auckland), waiting for you right now at Burgernaut—the epic new burger kitchen operating out of Urbanaut Brewery in Kingsland.

If you know cookies, you know Moustache (aka the crew that bought us that gigantic 12-person Caramilk cookie pie and about a gazillion other equally delicious creations). Well now they've opened a shop on Cavendish Drive in Manukau, and it's everything you'd expect it to be and more. Prepare for serious circus vibes as you step right up into a glorious yellow space complete with strings of glowing lights and a merry-go-round inspired central counter.

Stylish new spot Atelier Shu on Kent Street (formally on Faraday in Parnell) could easily be mistaken for an art gallery, what with its minimalist fit-out, however, it's actually a patisserie. Taking traditional European-style pastries and blending them with Asian flavours, the result is unique and tasty treats (think madeleines, tarts and one of our all-time faves, canelés) that look like, well, works of art.  

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.

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 store as part of Titirangi's legendary Street Feast food hall.

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 (not to be confused with the Jamaican capital, Kingston!) where Kage Restaurant and before that, Shakey Isles was.

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).

In the spot that formerly housed Bonita, The Tinted Rose's excellent cocktail and tapas game has been strong since its inception in 2019. By day the space opens out into a well-lit haven with bright windows looking onto Summer Street and an enviable sun trap of a garden in the back. By night, let the cosy vibes of a late-night drinking den envelop you as you sip on masterful cocktail creations and their back garden transforms under a canopy of sparkling lights.

Once tucked away in St Kevin's Arcade, Japanese late-night fave Acho's has a new spot front and centre on Karangahape Road and to say it's cool would be an understatement.

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.

We're always down with trying out a new burger joint, especially one that's named after a cat! Enter Fat Puku's Smashed Burgers, the funky new spot with a hip hop edge that's taken over the old Al's Deli space on Queen Street (and which, once upon a time, housed Auckland music stalwart Real Groovy whose 70's wallpaper still adorns part of the wall).

Introducing Atelier, the newest kid on the Karangahape Road block. The name is French and so is the food, which you'll tuck into while sipping on an impressive selection of wines, next-level cocktails and local beer.

Some of the city's fave street food vendors have come together as one big happy (and incredibly tasty) family to form Titirangi's new Street Feast food hall. This epic spot on the ground floor of The Rise development is already making a name for itself as a one-stop shop for all things delicious. This is because Street Feast is far from your average food hall, with seven legendary eateries to choose from (meaning a return trip, if not several, is all but guaranteed). Smash back seriously stacked burgs from Jo Bro's (the wagyu number will change your life)—fill your face with tacos from their sister offering, Loco Bro's—chow down on a slice or 10 of woodfired goodness from Stumpy's Pizza (and be sure to check out their insane oven)—tuck into empanadas and gluten-free goodness from Mar & Tierra—feast on fried chicken from SaPa Kitchen (bought to us by the team behind much-loved food truck, NomNom)—then finish things off with something sweet from Wen & Yen's dessert bar, where their signature doughnuts sit alongside barista coffee and handcrafted gelato from Little 'Lato.

Have you heard about the boxing gym that is taking Auckland by storm? Well, let us introduce you to Studio Box. With a Newmarket location already under its wing, a brand new studio has opened up in the city that has evolved the studio's signature workout into a 45-minute, 10-round, full-body cardio and strength class.

Get a lesson in London pub culture over at Viaduct newbie, The Fox. Decked out with quirky English-inspired interiors (check out Queen Lizzy with her tattoos and neon crown!), this is one cool spot and in fact a much more upmarket version of the London pubs you may have experienced on your travels.

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.

Now for those who know Sumthin Dumplin, then you know that their little juicy morsels are to die for, but for those who don’t here’s a recap—Owner Shane Liu first opened his boutique eatery on O’Connell street serving up a variety of home-made dumplings which were in such hot demand he opened a second take away spot on Wellesley Street.

A group of hospo legends (Oliver Simon, David Lee, Tom Hong and Oli Rennie, whose joint credentials include Gochu, Good Dog Bad Dog, and The Candy Shop) have buddied up to bring an incredible, American-style pizza joint—Green Door Pizza—to the ground floor of Commercial Bay.

What was once Hammer & Tongs Food Stop based in Silverdale has now rebranded to H&T Kitchen and moved to the central city but it remains the spot for all things healthy and wholesome. The team use quality and ethically sourced ingredients to put on a menu that changes daily, to celebrate the best of the season. Forget those soggie sammies and microwaved pies, H&T Kitchen is all about slow and fresh. With offerings to go, they’re a fabulous alternative to your usual lunch-break pie, providing the wholesome goodness we always knew we needed.

Bread & Butter Bakery and Café in Grey Lynn sits pretty just down the lane behind Farro Fresh and serves up irresistible bread and cakes, as well as a delicious menu of breakfast and lunch options.

Hibiscus Coast dwellers and city-siders with a soft spot for a food-focused day trip, this one’s for you. There’s a new opening in town in Whangaparāoa and that’s the Parāoa Brewing Co. Ideal for all things eating, drinking, socialising, boogying and being merry, this spot on the skirts of Coast Plaza has a little something for everyone.

Let’s be honest, who has time to work out these days? Yep, we understand the struggle. But what if we told you, you can get fit in just 20 minutes a week?! It sounds too good to be true, right? Wrong! Due to high demand, Auckland's first and only boutique EMS studio fu/nis has just opened a second outpost in Takapuna, bringing their fun and efficient training methods to the grateful citizens of the shore.

Purveyors of comfort-food-lashed street-style dogs, Good Dog Bad Dog, have set up shop at Ormiston Town Centre. Here, you’ll find the carby creations you know and love from their original Commercial Bay store—all dished up from a fun, mustard and tomato-toned restaurant of their own.

Meet Bar Magda—a speakeasy-style bar and bistro that is guaranteed to steal your heart, captivate your taste buds and tantalize your palate with its delicious selection of snazzy tipples and tasty bites.

Sometimes it’s nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and dine in calmer surroundings. So, if you feel like adventuring your tastebuds elsewhere then listen up.

If you’re looking for a cosy place to nestle into this winter, then we know just the spot. Stanley Avenue Wine Bar & Bistro in Milford is not only dishing out the winter vibes, but also some delicious food and an epic wine list to go alongside. 

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 new chapter of Parade—now with a levelled up garden fit-out and a liquor licence—is where you’ll want to be. 

MOGLY Bar & Eatery is one heck of a spot. Located on the fringe of the new Ormiston Town Centre, the fit-out is nothing short of incredible (there's a gigantic selfie birdcage and even a private karaoke room) but that's not all—they also offer a killer food and drinks menu.

If you're a little plant-obsessed like us, and enjoy filling up your home (and your 'Gram) with gorgeous greenery, then Babylon Store has got you covered. 

Ahhh toast, the humble food that just keeps on giving. It’s the perfect brekkie companion, a great lunch option and even makes for a crackin' dinner too. 

Dining at Onemata is one of those real oh-la-la experiences. With stunning contemporary interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows, practically within arm's reach of the water (plus up-close views of Wynyard Crossing, the moving bridge that we still get a kick out of watching), there's no denying there's something very special about this restaurant. And we haven't even started on the food...

Nestled into Orakei Bay Village, Beach Club is in the heart of Orakei’s restaurant scene but is certainly a stand-out eatery that adds a touch of luxury to this corner of Auckland.

If there’s one thing that’s been missing from Auckland’s diverse dining scene—it’d have to be a dedicated chocolate bar. Addressing the need we didn’t know we had is one of NZ’s premier chocolatiers Honest Chocolat. Expanding operations from their Matakana home village, Honest Chocolat has opened a beautiful chocolate boutique on the ground floor of Commercial Bay. 

Goodness Bistro is aptly named – as soon as you walk into the elegant eatery in the newly refurbished Britomart precinct, you won't stop saying ‘Oh My Goodness’. Not least, because everything they make is gluten-free, vegan, organic, paleo and free from refined sugar.

If, like us, you shed a tear when Bread & Butter upped sticks from Milford, we've got some news that's going to make you very happy. A new café called Supernova has taken over the space, and it's bringing with it some pretty solid (some might even say super) grub.

Grownup Donuts are a legit success story, having earned their stripes at markets around Auckland before putting down permanent roots in Henderson, Wairau Valley and now at a brand-new store in the CBD.

Let's just start by saying, anyone who can make a vegan, gluten-free doughnut that tastes like the real deal is a legit genius. Enter Charlotte Verstappen, who has mastered that exact art, and is cranking out these wholesome treats (along with a selection of other sweet and savoury goodies) from her charming new plant-based bakery, Charlie Mia.

A new subterranean restaurant, Ghost Street, has landed in Britomart, bringing more than a little spice to the city. 

Prepare to get your endorphins fired up in a blood pumping and strengthening sweat session that will get you hooked after the first try. 

If you love macarons but, like us, are sometimes searching for a little extra filling, get along to Daldang stat where they specialise in 'Fatcarons'—generously stuffed versions of the French treat. Following their runaway success in the CBD, this sweet little store has opened a second, larger store in Newmarket. 

Va Bene is the newest restaurant to join the Parnell strip and let us tell you—this is one seriously sweet spot. Styled much like a European wine bar, it's hitting all the right notes with its menu of largely French and Italian-inspired dishes, champagne and more, which you're encouraged to enjoy from a large communal table where—who knows—a fellow diner could become your new best friend.

Get your slurp on, a new pasta joint has landed on K’Road and it’s pasta-tively delicious! (we had to). Proving that simple works best is Pici (pronounced pea-chee), a delectable Italian eatery run by Chef Jonny Thevenard and fellow chef Kaz Suzuki, who all fell in love with Italian fare whilst travelling through Italy earlier last year before heading home and setting up shop in St Kevins Arcade—and Pici was born!