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So maybe you’ve cycled before. And maybe you’ve hit a dance floor in da club (or should we say your mate’s house party?). But have you experienced both at the same time? If you were a Westward-goer or have hit the likes of Soul Cycle, Psycle or Euphoria overseas, that’ll be a Hell Yes. If not, let me catch you up to speed. 

Urban Verge is the local legend serving up mouth-watering classics with a unique twist. Found just across from the Manukau Road Cornwall Park entrance in a hip fit-out, you don’t want to miss the wicked cajun chicken salad, heavenly french toast, or massive big benedict. Along with cold-pressed juices, smoothies and five blend coffee there’s every reason to pay this wee gem a visit.

Who said vegans are missing out? Cult fave Tart Bakery whips up vegan pies, pastries, doughnuts, and other sweet treats baked fresh daily. The friendly staff will help you pick from the huge array of goodies and send you merrily on your way.

If you’re looking for out-of-this-world coffee, then look no further than Beam Café in Milford. But it's not just about the coffee! Beam Café is serving up some of the prettiest and tastiest brunches! Think candy floss on top of bubble waffles, almond croissants, eggs bene with fried chicken, and a black sesame smoothie to wash it all down. The hipster set-up and spacedog mural definitely have us beaming from ear to ear.

Located in Ponsonby is one of Auckland’s very own branches of Spring Spas—the global frontrunners in the day spa industry. Combining beauty treatments with relaxation, Spring Spa offers pampering from head to toe with an emphasis on nails, skincare, waxing, threading and multi-treatment packages. With an open plan design and concrete floors set against natural wooden fittings and pops of modern colour, this is your very own urban beauty retreat where you can beautify in style. Book a private room for some ‘me’ time or take advantage of the spa lounge to visit with your girlfriends and do some bonding. Sitting on the Ponsonby ‘strip’, this is a perfect pre/post activity to a shopping spree or a meal out.

With the best views of the Viaduct straight from your own room, M Social is the place to stay for a romantic getaway or luxurious pamper night, right in the heart of the city. Comfy and spacious rooms, free wifi, amazing views, club lounges and a hotel bar and restaurant make the M Social a stand out among the rest. You’ll completely forget you’re still in Auckland when you sit back, relax, and bask in the comfort of the luxury of M social.

Drawing its name from the realm of science, Beakers and Jars is a café residing amist Grafton’s medical community—surrounded by neighbouring Auckland City Hospital, The Liggins Institute and Auckland University’s Grafton Campus. This little gem is just as hip as its predecessor Ceremony and serves just as good a cup of coffee. The food menu features delightfully healthy options like the mighty avo on toast, as well as a range of tempting guilty-pleasures the likes of burgers and hotdogs.

Nanam has found its new home in lucky ‘burb Takapuna. Offering a unique and refreshing taste you won’t find anywhere else, this gem showcases the flavours of the Philippines in a surrounding hip fit-out. With each a masterpiece within itself, we recommend the flavorsome roast chicken sinigang. Paired with one of their fabulous bespoke cocktails, we guarantee you’ll be in for a treat.

Found in the heart of the city, The Raw Kitchen’s latest location is all sorts of raw-some. With a millennial pink fit-out, cozy lounging area and some of the best (and healthiest) sweet treats in town, it's no surprise this gem’s a fave of many. With a dedicated pastry chef on board, you'll want to keep an eye on the jam-packed cabinet for the latest and greatest creations from the kitchen. Don’t forget to check out their epic range of mylkshakes and smoothie bowls.  

Auckland’s inner city health haven is not one to miss. From an impressive range of 11 cold-pressed juices, superfood bowls, and toast-tastic creations, Cali Press is a health-nut's dream! With the chill vibes only found on the shores of Bondi, don’t forget to snap a 'gram in front of the mural. Approachable, delicious, nutritious, and convenient, it’s no wondering we’re head-over-heels in love!

Cordis is an upscale, elegant, 5-star luxury hotel on the Auckland scene. 

The glitz and glam of The SKYCITY Grand Hotel  is second to none. Found on Federal St, in the heart of the Auckland CBD, you’ll be in and amongst all the action. Often the top pick for celebrity travellers, the five star facility boasts an indoor pool and spa and valet services, not to mention the acclaimed East Day Spa.

For a luxury boutique experience, look no further than Hotel DeBrett. This inner-city gem, on the corner of High St and Shortland St, promises a unique stay. With an intimate 25 rooms, the decor features eclectic furniture,  local art and photography. With two bars and a kitchen you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice. 

There’s no missing one of Auckland’s most iconic hotels. With a prime spot on the Princes Wharf, not only does this gem promise some of the best views in town, it boasts sundecks, private balconies and a heated lap pool, too!

The Pullman Auckland is a stunning hotel a hop, skip and a jump from the CBD. With a sleek interior, there are more than a dozen meeting spaces and a variety of rooms to choose from, you’ll not want to leave! On-site restaurant, Tapestry Dining is inspired by French bistros and uses a unique selection of flavours from local produce that’ll keep your belly happy. If you prefer to spend your time with a vino or two, then head to the Omni Bar. Enjoy the lush décor with excellent food and a premium wine list. No visit would be complete without being treated at their spa. With the option of natural, traditional and scientific treatments to choose from, you’re certain to find something just for you.

Hammer & Tongs Food Stop is the spot for all things healthy and wholesome. Found in Silverdale, 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, Hammer & Tongs Food Stop is all about slow and fresh. Think 10-hour lamb, or the fleshy meat that falls from ribs...as well as delicious sides. With offerings to go, they’re a fabulous alternative to your usual lunch-break pie, providing the wholesome goodness we always knew we needed.

A magical thing happens when Asian food collides with Pacific fare. Think freshly caught seafood, hints of street food and a whooole lot of flavour. And, luckily for us, you’ll find all of this (and more!) at Auckland’s newest restaurant, Beast & Butterflies.

Next Door is a Parnell gem that is dishing up some of the prettiest eats in town. From, a taste of Vietnam to your classic Sunday roast, there’s a little something for everyone.But be sure to save room for dessert! With a sweet treat specialist on board and one of the best dessert platters in town, you won’t be left disappointed. Along with epic cocktails and freshly brewed coffee, you’ll soon be crushing on the kid Next Door.

First launching as a food truck, Nitro Cow has now set up a permanent home in Takapuna! Taking the world of gelato very, very seriously, they serve up made-to-order creations using the powers of liquid nitrogen. Enjoy irresistible flavours like salted caramel, peanut butter and jelly as well as s'mores. Each creation is then flash-frozen for your eating pleasure. Don't miss the Insta-famous Dragon's Breath—liquid nitrogen gelato balls which, when eaten, dissolve into a breath of 'smoke'.

From the brilliant minds behind Mr. Toms, Archie is the one-stop-spot for those on the go. With a menu dedicated to toast and bagels and some of the most scrumptious smoothies in town, you’ll soon find Archie to be your new best mate. Found alongside Barkers and the Groom Room, waiting for a fade has never been better.

Kookie Haus is a West Auckland gem, taking the foodie scene by storm. Found in Ranui, this epic spot features some of the best cookie creations in town! From cookie dough sandwiches to loaded cookies, and even deep fried doughnuts, it’s your one-stop shop for the sweet treats you didn’t know you needed. 

If you’re a bit like us and fries = life. Then stop what you’re doing, drop everything and make a beeline for Lord of the Fries. Serving up epic fries morning, noon and night, this gem makes your comfort food dreams come true.

When it comes to all things sweet, we don’t do things by halves at The Urban List. Cakes, doughnuts, slices and everything between… we want it all and we want it now. So, when a café comes along with a cabinet brimming with deliciousness, we ditch the diet and order one of everything.

¡Ay, caramba! Nestled in Sylvia Park’s bustling food precinct, The Grove, you’ll find Mexico. Bringing along the classics we all know and love, you’ll find their famous fried chicken, mouthwatering quesadilla and that’s not even to mention the cheeky Frida margaritas. Grove-goers are now able to immerse themselves in and amongst quirky Mexicana artworks, and sip away on some of the best sangria in town.

Clarence Rd Eatery features cool hues, earthy tones and textured circular photographs by local legend Cathy Carter. Here, you’ll want nothing more than to sit back, relax and soak in the soothing atmosphere. Head chef Trevor Hubbard has ensured foodies will be treated to one of the best menus in town—think truffle scrambled eggs for brekkie, classic Naples-style pizzas for lunch and a selection of meats chargrilled ‘over the coals’ in their state-of-the-art woodfired oven. On the go? Take a slice of the awesomeness with you, or check out their fully-stocked cabinet, filled to the brim with goodies. Roasting All Press coffee daily, the team at Clarence Rd Eatery have spared no expense to bring north code the foodtastic destination it’s been waiting for.

Pakuranga’s art-tastic eatery, Small Fry, is the creative foodie experience we’ve been waiting for. Brought to us by Ruby Chang-Jet White—the brilliant mind behind famous pop-up “Miss Changy”, the cafe can be found in the Te Tuhi Art Gallery. Featuring a menu inspired by flavours of traditional Malaysia, you’ll find reworked classics including kaya toast, miso brown rice, and laska chicken rolls. All served on Ruby’s signature ceramic collection, you’ll want to pair these bad boys with a chilli hot chocolate in between checking out the latest whacky and wonderful exhibitions on display. Surrounded by contemporary art and some of the best eats in town, Small Fry is not one you want to miss.

Shopping has never been easier in the state-of-the-art Barkers in Ponsonby. Decked out with touch screens and their full collection on display, the process is simple: grab a coffee at Archie, have a browse through the store, and get a fade at the Groom Room. Keep an eye on your letterbox the next working day and rock your fresh new threads—you’ll go from zero to hero!

If Auckland had an award for the most promising suburb, Royal Oak would be it. The upcoming ‘burb is getting yummier and yummier thanks to an influx of new eateries. One of our favourite (and most delicious) spots is new kid on the block, Oak Eatery.

Auckland’s North Shore just got a whooole lot tastier thanks to new kid on the block, The Glasshouse Cafe. And, if you’re into delicious eats such as chocolate-loaded waffles, steamed bao buns and pork belly benedict, you need to visit—pronto.

We couldn’t help but fall in love with wee gem Ivy and Bean. Found in what was once the old tram station on Mt. Eden Rd, you’ll be mesmerised by their epic fully stocked cabinet. From perfectly puffed pastries to all the sweet treats your heart desires, there’s nothing quite like their homemade pies or heavenly Louise slice. Paired with fresh hot brews of Atomic coffee there’s  every reason to pay Ivy and Bean a visit during your next lunch break.

You say Asian fusion, we say Mix! Dishing up the delectable Asian fare we all know and love with a twist is Kingsland's Mix. Propped up on New North Road, this joint is a mecca of tasty South-East Asian goodness where you can find the staples such as tom yum soup and gyozas as well as roast duck, curries and deelish wok tosses. Also worth noting is their short but sweet bao (read = bun) menu. You'll have the option of roast pork, chichen or tofu for our vege pals out there. This central hot spot is not to be missedlovers of Asian food! 

Our teeny little country has a name for itself as being clean and green, and our friends over at The Source want to keep it that way. The Source Bulk Foods are eco-warriors working towards saying goodbye to nasty plastic packaging for good. Swap your bags for jars and your treats for wholefoods, because this Milford-based store has love for both you and the earth. If kombucha on tap and guilt-free homewares are right up your alley, pay this eco-friendly paradise a visit, it’d be rude not to!

After the success of their first store in Orakei, Bowl & Arrow's second home has opened in the beautiful burb of Parnell. Specialising in super healthy, super yummy smoothie bowls which are filled with antioxidants and nutrients. B&A bowls are mostly gluten-free, dairy-free and sugar-free. Expect a variety of nuts, fruits and veggies. The perfect way to start your day or for a little afternoon pick-me-up.

Fry Baby is the eatery we’ve been waiting for. Situated in the heart of the CBD, the loyal team is serving up finger lickin’ good fries day in, day out. Yep, that’s right. This Auckland eatery is dedicated solely to fries.

Here’s one that'll get all the North Shore taste-buds frothing. Blu Poke Shed is landing in Auckland’s foodie scene and gracing us with God’s gift –Hawaiian cuisine.

Every bit as magical as it looks, The Delicious Food Store serves just that, delicious food.

For those of you with a love for lush decor, get ready for this. Auckland has just welcomed its very first indoor plant store, and it’s more glam than we ever imagined.

The secret’s out. Tucked away behind two hidden doors, you’ll stumble upon Auckland’s newest—and most stunning—jewellery studio. Since launching in 2016, Miramôr has been shaking up Auckland’s jewellery scene with their beautiful, handmade designs.

Buckle up for a foodtastic adventure that’ll take you back to ancient times—Inti has arrived in the CBD and is changing up the Auckland foodie scene. With executive chef Javier Carmona at the helm, you’ll find all sorts of whacky and wonderful creations. A must try is the torta ahogada, an alpaca sammie drenched in a drool worthy agua de chilli crema sauce. Spice up your ‘gram with the green chorizo, the most picturesque bundle of happiness in town! Or, simply stop by for a cocktail and soak in the good vibes, enjoying light displays and murals by local legendary urban artist, Flox.

There are few things that can get us out of bed early on the weekend, but a meal at Dear Jervois is definitely one of them. This charming café in the heart of Herne Bay has been serving up some of Auckland's best (not to mention prettiest) brunch and brekkie for years and shows no signs of stopping, even with a recent-ish change in ownership.

If you’re anything thing like us, you take food very (very) seriously. Nothing comes between you and brunch—especially when Auckland’s best French toast is involved!

Oh, how the beauty scene has changed. Rewind a decade and you would only dare whisper “bikini wax” on the phone and getting your brows tidied involved a bit of a pluck while you lay on a treatment bed. But now… both the brow and the Brazilian are an actual thing. No, more than an actual thing… they are the hierarchy of beauty needs. 

If there’s one cuisine us Aucklanders can’t get enough of, it’s Asian fusion. We’re talking crispy roti rolls and fragrant curries served alongside fresh summer rolls and moreish dumplings. What’s not to love about that?!

For a strong brow game, make a beeline for Takapuna’s OFF & ON. The trendy beauty destination specialises in all things brow and lash—shaping, colouring and lash lifts. But the pampering doesn’t end there! OFF & ON will hook you up with incredibly smooth skin, thanks to their extensive wax and laser services. If you live on the other side of the bridge, visit them in Newmarket, Britomart or check out their Quay Street branch for microblading.

Serving up delicious—you guessed it—tacos, Ain't No Taco is a welcome addition to Symonds Street. With colourful decor and an ENTIRE WALL dedicated to hot sauce, it is an oasis in the heart of the city. you’ll find the likes of Korean-inspired bulgogi pork, with daikon pickle and slaw, Tequila and lime chicken with coconut yogurt and lettuce and Jamaican jerk tofu and mango salsa. Of course, you can't visit a Mexican joint without trying the guac and chips, and here you are assured that they are every bit as delicous as you were hoping. Wash it all down with some tequila or craft beers. Ain't No Taco, we're loving you!

Half cafe, half smoothie bar, Oasis Cafe may just be Howick's best kept secret—until now that is. From housemade peanut butter, chocolate and salted caramel shakes to s'mores flamed and caramelized to order, those with a sweet tooth have found their safe haven. The extensive menu suits all taste buds however, with carb-loaded breaky bowls featuring at their finest. Our favourite pick? The open toast with roast pear, honey, thyme and a whole lotta peanut butter. 

If you like your cafes friendly, cute and delicious, look no further than Grey Lynn newcomer Honey Bones. The delightful cafe whips up one of the best all-day breakfasts in town with everything from Cilbir Eggs to their cult-worthy Istanbul Scrambled and Middle Eastern Breakfast Platter. In terms of bevvies, you’ll find Supreme Coffee and gorgeous smoothies. 

Happy Boy is making the folk of Royal Oak happy! Brought to you by the same peeps behind Kiss Kiss, Chiniserie and L'Oeuf, step inside and you'll discover something special. Vibrantly colourful, it's serving up delicous bugers, all served in soft, bao-style buns. The cornflake crusted Karage chicken with nori, pickled ginger, white cabbage and Yuzu mayo is a must. Just make sure you leave room for dessert! We can't go past the warm brownie with miso butterscotch, vanilla ice cream and crushed peanuts. Quench your thirst with one of three non-alcoholic slusies or go all out and order the Pina colada. 

Duck Duck Goose is bringing a whole lot of yum to the industrial area of Rosedale. The North Shore newcomer adds a Southeast Asian twist to cafe fare. Classics such as French toast and omelettes are offered alongside spicy duck curry and a chicken burger served with kimchi salad. Wash down with an Espresso Workshop coffee or something from their extensive latte menu—matcha, turmeric or beetroot, the choice is yours!

Prepare to be blown away by this extravagant addition to Wynyard Quarter’s wonderful restaurants. Brought to us by the connoisseurs behind Deco Eatery and Devon on the Wharf, Feriza’s incorporates flavours from Turkey, Greece and the Middle East. With authentic dishes such as the gözleme—a traditional savoury flat bread—and mains such as freekeh pilaf stuffed chicken served with labneh and vegetables, the extensive menu will leave you spoilt for choice. Even if it’s just a Turkish coffee you’re after, pop in and relax in this exquisite interior that now graces our waterfront.

Let’s be honest, sometimes we just can’t go past a goode (pun intended), honest pub. We’re talking hearty, wholesome meals, refreshing bevvies and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. What’s not to love about that?!

We were all once strangers, but fate... or just pure perseverance (please be my friend?) got us our bestest of friends and soul mates. But you don’t have to be a stranger to this humble cafe in Eden Terrace and say hi to their lovable breakfast options and lunchables, their unique bao buns filled with balsamic thick pork belly or their bulgogi burger for us kimchi lovers. Don’t forget to try their peanut butter and caramel shake and, of course, Kohu Road ice cream. You’ll definitely won’t be a stranger after visiting Once Strangers Cafe!

Remuera foodies delight! Synonymous with seriously good and healthy foods, the amazing deli that is Jess' Underground Kitchen is now on Remuera turf where it's dishing out all the feel-good foods we know and love. It's the perfect place to pop by if you're in need of a healthy, hearty and homely meal or snack with their stellar range of breads, sammies, salads and frozen foods ready for you to grab on the go. There's also a kick-ass range of cheeses and sweet treats (ahem, like Lewis Road Creamery anyone?) just waiting for you to sink your teeth into. If you're a busy bee then you'll be super stoked to know that you can order their dinner of the day online and swing by to grab it on the way home!

For perfect brows and silky smooth skin, look no further than OFF & ON in Britomart. The friendly folk are pros at all things hair removal, offering both waxing and laser services. As for your brows, they’ll shape and colour them to perfection—and they can do your lashes while you’re at it. Neither a beauty spa nor salon OFF & ON puts the funk in funky with their quirky art, black-clad staff and great music. Can’t get to Britomart? Visit ‘em in Newmarket, Takapuna or get amongst microblading at their Quay Street branch. 

Mother/daughter design duo Lynda Partridge and Hannah Mirbach have opened HART by Partridge Design. Located in Birkenhead HART is full of beautiful homeware products with everything from bedding to lighting, prints to drapery with some standout pieces sourced from Denmark and Europe. With a gorgeous and cohesive collection, you'll find your interior woes sorted!

Here's one for all you herbivores! Rabbit Cafe is Aucklands newest vegetarian cafe. Located in Eden Terrace, this quaint little cafe has a mouth watering selection of cabinet treats and a fantasticly green menu to tempt even the most strong headed of meat lovers! French toast, courgette omelettes and quinoa fritters are some of the scrummy dishes that this healthy little cafe has to offer. And with its cute mismatched furniture and pops of colour all over, if it's a relaxed and welcoming vibe you're after then you've come to the right place!

Let this all-day bistro work its French charm with authentic delicacies and deliciousness. At Le Garde Manger, tables are cloaked with red checkered cloths to give that extra cosy feel, you might as well order a glass of Sauv to make your inner Frenchie feel right at home. Situated in the Auckland CBD it's perfect for a pitstop anytime of the day. Whether you have a sweet tooth for their crepes or maybe a hearty beef bourguignon, Le Garde Manger has you covered. 

There’s no need to fork out on a plane ticket to the islands—a Pacific getaway is closer than you think! We’re talkin’ exotic cocktails and mouth-watering fare (with an abundance of seafood, of course) while you sit back, relax and overlook the rolling ocean.

When we’re craving for Malaysian food, PappaRich is at the top of our list. PappaRich isn’t new to the scene, but this branch at Sylvia Park is. After a long day of... shopping, there’s no better way to reward yourself than some roti canai matched with some curry, or their classic chicken rice that never disappoints. With their massive selection of delicious asian dishes and whichever is your preference, PappRich has got you sorted.

Brunching and lunching in the CBD just got a whole lot easier with Lorne Street Larder on the scene! Smack-bang in the middle of the city, this cafe is the ideal spot for those who are on-the-go but still need to recharge and refuel with a tasty meal. Don't miss their French toast—a generous helping served with mascarpone, chocolate soil and drizzled in hazelnut butter. There is also a delicious pie menu. We recommend the chicken, with white wine, thyme and leek and top secret herbs and spices.