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Nothing beats a good, honest fry. Fries transform the humble potato into a mouth-watering work of art that comforts the soul and makes the world a better place. If you’re a bit like us and can’t say no to the crispy-yet-fluffy deliciousness, make a beeline for Double Dutch Fries—they serve the best fries in Auckland!

If you're in West Auckland and wanting a top-notch spot to dine, look no further than Chikos Restaurant & Cafe. Situated in Henderson, it dishes up a combination of food from the Philippines and Japan. While there are plenty of options on the menu, we recommend going straight for their signature range for all the delights. Choose from the likes of the hot ladle chowder: aromatic sabzi, green lip mussel, coco-curry fish goujon, togarashi aioli and garlic croute or opt for the next-level Beef Cheek Massaman: slow-cooked Angus beef cheek in creamy massaman curry sauce. You don’t have to ask us twice!

Let’s be honest, the North Shore has got it going on. There are beaches, walks and beauty galore, but as suckers for great food, quality coffee and friendly vibes, Mairangi Bay gem, Paper Moon is one of the highlights.

Kickstart your day with a healthy (and delish!) breakfast from The Smoothie Bowl in Takapuna. Specialising in smoothie bowls and smoothies, you'll find options such as blueberry peanut butter (yum!), mango passion and chocalicious. Jam-packed with ingredients such as coconut cream, banana, beetroot, Greek yoghurt and chia seeds, most offerings are gluten-free with a plenty of vegan-friendly options. Our advice? Get yours to takeaway and enjoy on the nearby Takapuna Beach. 

Calling all lovers of Texas barbecue, Asian food and Mexican comida, the Pork ‘N’ Beans food truck has combined all three of these grub heavyweights and your mouth is about to water. How would you like your pork? Pohutakawa-smoked and slow-cooked, as Mexican carnitas, or perhaps in a jalapeno and cheddar meatloaf sandwich? However you have it, this food truck will dish it up damn good. Keep an eye on the Pork 'N' Beans Facebook page to find where they'll be next!

Benebabes of Auckland, Ponsonby Road is where you'll find your sanctuary. Benefit, the iconic San Francisco cosmetics brand, smiled upon our little nation of beauty fanatics and gave us New Zealand’s very first Benefit Boutique! Treat your brows to some shaping, your legs to some waxing, your skin to some spray-tanning and, to sum up their array of services—your body to some beautifying. Benefit Boutique’s beauty experts will make you feel like the gorgeous, glowing babe you are. 

Bringing the bright lights of Vegas to Ponsonby is Win-Win. With a retro cocktail bar vibe, this quirky joint serves innovative cocktails alongside buttery popcorn and jelly bites made by The Jellyologist. The ever-changing cocktail menu isn't afraid to shake things up (pun intended) with concoctions involving cocoa leaf liqueur, white chilli truffle tea and orange blossom water.

Get transported to the balmy nights of Spain and South America with this new sizzling hot (permanent) pop-up. Housed in the Woodworks cafe, this daytime eatery is transformed into a slick restaurant come dusk. In charge is former Beirut, Mexico and Oaken executive chef Javier Carmono, whose vibrant and weekly changing menu is a reflection of his Spanish and Mexican roots. These are complex dishes that discover new ingredients, and you can taste the passion for food and culture in every bite. Start with an ice-cold Spanish beer and the crispy sago and cricket flour chips, then move on to delicate ceviches, tender pork belly and braised goat served with punchy lime juice, coriander and sesame. If you’re game, try the goat’s milk ice cream with candied sweet potato for dessert. 

Tart Bakery, an Auckland classic, offers delectable freshly baked goods with a cup full of mummy love—and yes, it’s all vegan! Their pastries will definitely bring back childhood memories with their wide variety of choices that continues to grow with new creations almost daily. Make sure you go for a run… a run to Tart Bakery, that is!

Food that comes with a view always makes for a promising dining experience! Overlooking views of lush greenery and Rangitoto in the distance, The Junction Eatery serves up everything from Brazilian acai bowls to fajitas to waffles (four different flavours of waffles!). The Junction Eatery also prides itself in using free-range products and ingredients and going organic where possible. So if you’re keen for a guilt-free meal, The Junction Eatery is a solid option and one of Birkenhead’s newest local treasures.

Parnell, aren't you spoiled! Winona Forever is brimming with tasty treats, jam and mascarpone doughnuts, oh-so classic caramel slices, and need we mention their speciality French Toast Eton Mess with Gin Raspberry Compote? Browse their cabinet for a Ciabatta sammie and most definitely a sweet treat. Serving up Supreme coffee and bubbles (yes, they have an alcohol license), Winona Forever is one of the best cafes in Parnell.

Hidden in Auckland CBD is The Kimchi Project, a Korean-inspired restaurant and cafe with innovative food and one heck of a courtyard. Perch yourself at a sun-drenched table and tuck into The Kimchi's Project delicious menu. For brekkie and brunch there's chicken and prawn dumpling with house made soy cream and seasonal mushies, kimchi waffle fries, and Asian-style bruschetta. The bao buns are fluffy pillows of happiness (think pulled pork, tempura chicken and soft shell crab) and come dinner time, you can feast on sweet and soy short ribs, beef tartare and kimchi fried rice. Just be sure to leave room for the matcha tiramisu!

Looking for a new healthy café to call home? Street Organics in Takapuna is the answer. With a successful café in Melbourne, Street Organics has now made the jump over the ditch and opened another venue in Auckland. Everything is made with love and from scratch—from vegan chia puddings to the classic avo on toast. Better yet, Street Organics offer a range of colourful lattes—tumeric, matcha or beetroot.

Scout is the latest cafe to hit Torbay with modern design, soft furnishings and oh-so delicious food. Scout brings old favourites like Blueberry Pikelets as well as new favourites like Ginger and Soy Smashed Tofu. Perhaps you've got a sweet tooth? They've got Brulee French Toast, served with Passionfruit, Fermented Strawberries, Vanilla and Green Tea Mascarpone and Matcha Crumble, and Kokako coffee and Golden Tumeric lattes all day long, this new opening is worth the drive. Post a pic on Insta, and your followers will most definitely be impressed (and drooling). 

Another suburb, another brilliant café. The Pt Chev Beach Cafe offers freshly roasted coffee, Kapiti ice cream and delicious café fare—we're talking fancy French toast, 'shakti' smoothie bowls, eggs bene on a crispy potato rosti and a badass buttermilk chicken burger. Wash it all down with a smoothie, juice or iced coffee and make your way to the best to soak up the rays. 

Situated in the beautiful 'burb of St Heliers, Porch Bar & Eatery is the place you should go when you want tasty food and breath-taking views. Sit on the balcony and soak in the magnifcance of Rangitoto while feasting on fish sliders, stunning salads, pasta and other fresh, modern cuisine. The deconstructed Eton Mess (served on a long wooden board) is the perfect finale and the drinks list while keep you wine, beer and cocktail afficiandos happy. Porch Bar & Eatery is one of the best restaurants in St Heliers. 

Conveniently located a hop, step and a jump from Point Chev beach, Mars Salt and Sweet is your one-stop shop for picnic supplies and ice-cream! The boutique grocer stocks everything from cheese and pâté to cured meats and divine pastries—including Heaven Scent pies. You’ll also find freshly squeezed juices, smoothies and Eighthirty coffee. The real drawcard is their scoops of Charlie’s gelato and sorbetti, supplied by the much-loved creamery in Matakana. Choose between flavours such as coconut, Bounty Bar, lemon meringue and dark chocolate—mmm!

Love nature but also love food? Titirangi's treehouse restaurant, iTi is the answer. This gorgeous eatery serves lunch and dinner (and brunch on weekends!), as well as tasty sharing plates. Tuck into confit pork belly with carrot-ginger purée, chicory and pickled edamame, or put a stop to the stomach rumbles with a perfectly cooked Savannah eye fillet with smoked potato, beets, black garlic and port jus. Save some room, though! ITi's gingerbread crème brûlée with mulled wine ice cream (!) and fruit biscotti is a must-try. 

The newest brain child of Ben Bayley, The Gounds is a family-friendly restaurant, with an awesome playground and studio which is sure to keep the sprogs entertained. With plates designed to share and a tonne of healthy-ish dishes you and your kids will be well fed and entertained. And, the Tuck Shop is just as delicious with ice cream, ice blocks, coffee and juices. The Grounds is one of the best restaurants in West Auckland. 

Garden Wholefoods Eatery is the new kid on the block in Newmarket. This vibrant cafe whips up delicious vegeterian and vegan dishes, house-made sodas and organic coffee. Oh, and we can't go past their juices which are jam-packed full of healthy goodness. You'll feel so cozy in their open space with floral interior and funky furniture. Garden Wholefoods Eatery is one of the best cafes in Newmarket. 

When we say a trip to Ponsonby isn’t complete without hitting up Ponsonby Social Club, we ain’t joking. Sitting along Pons Road, this iconic bar has been doing its thing for nearly nine years, serving up delicious cocktails and hosting some of the best local and international musos around.

Ponsonby Central is now home to Miss Istanbul, a Turkish restaurant catering to all your kebab cravings! There's an open  kitchen where the Miss Istanbul crew churn out crispy borek (potato and cheese filo—yum!), wraps and irresistable desserts. The eatery is decorated in brightly coloured tiles and benches, so you'll feel like you're truly eating street-side in Istanbul! Miss Istanbul is one of the best Turkish restaurants in Auckland. 

You now have another excuse to go and enjoy the Auckland Domain—Billy. This light and airy cafe is Newmarket's answer to a tasty lunch spot or afternoon snack spot. Expect the likes of fresh doughnuts, Asian-inspired mains (we're talkin' Korean beef burgs and Kimchi tacos) and all your breakfast classics. On the coffee front, there's Supreme—made into smooth, silky perfection. 

The newest eatery to hit Herne Bay, Osteria Del Pane, brings a slice of Italy to Auckland. Everything is authentic about this place, with the finest Italian produce and traditional techniques, brought to life by the best import, Tuscan- trained chef, Robert Aylwin. Featuring your favourite wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas, what's not to love? Buon apetito!

Seabreeze has taken the Auckland cafe scene by storm, sitting on a perfect little corner on Westmere near the ocean. The slick blue teal colours and fun beachwood furniture will have you and your friends hooked. And then there's the food! Inspired from classic dishes in the '90s, Seabreeze has you covered from delicious platter spreads, salmon bagels and crazy-good corn fritters. Do we need to say more?

Doughnuts and coffee—a standard combination, Olly takes things up a notch as an art gallery, too.  The Mt Eden venue serves up all the doughnut flavours under the sun, including matcha green tea, strawberry and cookies and cream, not to mention the old school fave of sugar and cinnamon. Wash it all down with an Allpress brew as you soak in the art.

Whenever you have a hankering for flaky roti canai, slurpable noodles or a warming laksa, PappaRich is exactly where you need to go. It’s been a year since PappaRich landed in Auckland and it continues to serve up some of the best authentic Malaysian eats around.

Another café has landed in Newmarket and it goes by the name of Champ Canteen. Located at the bottom of Remuera Road, this cool café specialises in toasties, coffee and funky spins on breakfast classics. Think prawn eggs bene on a toasted croissant and French toast with hazelnut cumbed brioche with coffee, custard, caramelised banana, bacon and ice cream. The standouts, however, are the toasties—our pick is the spaghetti and sausage. 

Ever thought you couldn't dabble in a home brew overlooking Auckland harbour while eating four kinds of ribs while bowling? Until recently you couldn't, but now Dr Rudi's Rooftop Brewing Co. is here to fulfil that dream. Located on the corner of Quay and Hobson Streets on Auckland Viaduct, Dr Rudi's is complete with a coffee spot, brewing vats, waterfront seating, an array of sharable platters and pizzas, and two bowling lanes!

Looking for a healthy breakfast on the go? Bowl and Arrow have opened a store in Remuera where you can pick up their smoothie bowls, smoothies and other delicious (and guilt-free!) treats. From the Six Pack (mint, pineapple avocado, spirulina, spinach, kiwifruit and banana) to the Summer Bod (beetroot, berries, acai, banana), there's something that every smoothie fiend with love. 

Rich Heart is a downtown bar with a whole lotta, you guessed it, heart. With a quality selection of New Zealand craft beer, boutique wine and a fine cocktail list (Tiki cocktails included!), it's the kind of place that welcomes you with open arms. Rich Heart can host up to 280 people, making it the perfect spot to hold your next event! 

Shaka Bowl has brought the Hawaiian raw fish trend, poke (POH-kay) to Auckland just in time for summer. At their High Street location, Shaka Bowl serves up fresh bowls filled with salad and tasty raw fish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. We can't think of anything better to feast on during the warmer months. 

Upland Road shops' beloved watering hole, The Village might be no longer but locals couldn't be more excited that The Corner has taken its place. The venue has been revamped, offering a tasty menu and expertly crafted drinks list. There's trevally ceviche, crumbed pork belly, grilled chilli prawns, chicken schnitzel and other dishes that will have you going back time and time again. Drinks wise, you can sip on cocktails, vino and beer and finish your meal with a rich chocolate brownie drizzled in dulce de leche. Yum!

Auckland newcomer REC (aka Recreation Records) is all about good tunes and good times. Located in downtown Auckland, this spot triples as a bar, record store and live music venue—rad spot, huh? Visit during the day to sift through their vinyls and grab a bite to eat. They’re all about burgers and toasted sammies served with a side of potato chips and a hearty pickle. Visit during this the night and the space transforms to a spot to let your hair down and get your groove on. 

You’ll want a hefty appetite when you roll on up to Newmarket's newcomer Tucks And Bao. The Asian fusion bar and restaurant is your one-stop pozzy for hearty, mouth-watering eats.There’s a dedicated bao menu starring seven (!) steamed bun beauties, including a succulent pork belly number with crispy crackling, hoisin sauce, coriander and roasted peanuts. With small plates, shared plates and plates for the kids, Tucks and Bao is your one-stop shop for Asian fusion. 

Hidden down a narrow alleyway off Sandringham Road you'll discover Auckland's secret chai lounge, Satya Spice And Chai Shop. The magical bar specialises in beer, cocktails, hookah (also known as shisha), Indian street food and—you guessed it—chai. The space is like something out of a fairytale—coffee sacks drape from the ceiling and walls, old wooden spools are used as tables and fairy lights glisten from above. There are more than 30 craft beers on offer as well as cocktails, sake, wine and comforting chai drinks. As for the food, you'll find typical Indian street food snacks such as dahi puri, idli fry, cut mirchi and chicken 65. Add this hidden gem to your must-visit list! 

The Lab Eatery is the newest addition to Takapuna's Hurstmere Road, but unlike the other restuarants around, this one has a bit of a science-y twist. The Lab Eatery will have you drinking out of test tubes and beakers! When it comes to the food, Eurpoean and Meditarranean fusion is where it's at, with lamb meatball, okra and falafel.

If you like washing your burger down with a refreshing beer, look no further than Black Dog Burger. The burger joint prides itself on keeping things simple but very, very delicious. Their beef patties are made fresh daily from prime cuts of New Zealand sirloin steaks and cooked to your liking before being paired with traditional accompaniments (mustard, ketchup, cheese and pickles etc). They also have a chicken and bacon burgers as well as a pulled-pork offering with house-made slaw. Enjoy with one of Wellington's finest Black Dog beers and you'll be away laughing.

Britomart's very own NY-inspired cocktail bar hides in plain sight. Decked out with vintage knick-knacks and slouch-worthy brown leather couches, take a trip down the stairs and back to an era of classic cocktails and effortless cool. The duo behind Caretaker are connoisseurs of cocktails and host a bountiful bar that is full of well-researched combinations and delectable drink choices. All in all, this is the coolest new joint in town. Fact. 

Introducing Sandringham’s Lord Kitchener. Specialising in British eats, the menu stars chip butties, beer-battered fish and chips (served with mushy peas, of course) and a pot pie with a side of bubble and squeak. There’s also a dedicated pizza menu with two-for-one pizzas on Mondays. It wouldn’t be a Brit feast without a bevvy (or two) and Lord Kitchener has you covered with beerises, wine and dedicated gin and whiskey menus. 

Culprit. is the brainchild of ex-Depot and Fed Deli duo, Kyle Street and Jordan Macdonald. Hidden away up a staircase on Wyndham St, Culprit. is serving up European and American-inspired dishes in yum-cha style. Their food philosophy is to work in collaboration with local New Zealand farmers and producers, with nothing going to waste. The unique menu stars several offal dishes, including chicken liver parfait and doughnuts, grilled lamb's tongue as well as bone barrow with cheese. No visit is complete without a serve of their signature pork-stuffed peking duck. 

Chocolate lovers rejoice, Miann have opened a second store! Full of their beloved and tempting, chocolate treats, mouth watering patisserie and decadent desserts, expect to leave full and happy after visiting their Britomart Store. The perfect destination for all things chocolate, you can now experience their new hot choccy menu in all its glory! We'll take one of everything, thanks! 

Po Brothers is brought to you by the same people who also own Bangkok in Kingsland. They wanted to create a fun and inviting space where cheap (but good) eats are at the ready. The menu is a collation of the Po’ Brother’s favourite Asian dishes, so you can travel to Japan, China, Thailand, Vietnam and Korea all in one meal. Their signature dessert is a dessert bao with deep fried green tea matcha ice cream. 

Kingsland is now home to Saigon, a Vietnamese restaurant with a goal of introducing the vibrant, fresh flavours of Vietnam to Auckland. Here, the menu is full of authentic dishes such as bun cha, pho bo and other favourites you'd find on the bustling streets of Hanoi. The space itself features large wooden tables (perfect for groups) and a vibe that transports you straight to Vietnam. 

Score a seat outside this popular Mount Eden joint and grab a slice of their famous cakes, cheesecakes and sweet treats. If you can tear yourself away from the dessert cabinet, Frasers also serve delicious food from 6am—11pm including bagels, brekkies and salads. With the likes of Baileys cheesecake and individual lemon meringue morsels filling the shelves, your sweet tooth will be in its element! Dessert for breakfast is a thing, right? 

If you're an officeless creative living in Auckland, you'll understand the importance of finding a workspace with really, really good coffee. Holm is exactly that place. Sitting along K Road, Holm has perfected the art of caffienated beverages and simple—yet tasty—food. Perch at a table and type away while making your way through their coffee menu. 

K’ Road Food Workshop is now home to El Sizzling Lomito, an Argentinian restaurant with a whole lotta oomph. Here, you'll find charred steak, burgers, lamb and other meat-heavy dishes. Of course, if you're a vego, El Sizzling Lomito will have you feasting on a delicious vegetarian sammie with an ice-cold beer to match. 

The low'n'slow barbecue movement seems to be having a moment in Auckland and, with the arrival of Morepork BBQ, it's definitely here to stay. The Head Chef hails from Boston so you know you're going to get a seriously good barbecue feed. There's smoked meat plates, fresh salads, hearty sandwiches (pulled pork is our pick) and delish sides. Don't forget to finish your Moremore BBQ experience with a slice of bourbon pecan pie. 

J'aime Les Macarons, french for 'I love Macarons', bring you just that—love and passion for the perfect macaron. Made from fresh cream, eggs and butter, as well as seasonal fruit and Belgium chocolate to add a creative flair. Our favourite flavours are Sticky Date Pudding, Pistachio ans Salted Caramel Espresso. J'adore! 

With a focus on fresh whole foods Sip Kitchen has you covered for all wellness eating requirements. From superfood smoothies, to slow pressed juices, to supreme coffee they really have it all covered—and thats just the drinks! Their cabinets are always chock-a-block full with delicious wholesome treats, that won't make you feel like you have blown your healthy eating plan. 

Kopio’s owners, Arthur and Mei Wong decided to close their beloved Malaysian restaurant in 2012 and now, they’re back in Parnell serving up the same delicious fare. Situated on Parnell Road, a visit to this restaurant will have you feasting on seafood curry, tender beef rendang, flaky roti and other tasty Malaysian dishes. Wash it down with hot green tea or an ice-cold beer. 

Ellerslie is now home to Marua Road Cafe, which pay homage to its industrial surroundings. Make the most of the brunch-centric menu, with favourites such as house-toasted granola, or indulge in one of their four choices of eggs benedict—including the southern fried chicken. There's also a great selection of cabinet food if you want to take away, as well as top-notch coffee and tea. 

Introducing Long Bay Surf Club, the newest and most delicious addition to the up and coming Long Bay Village development. Situated two minutes from the picturesque Long Bay beach, this eatery overlooks the regional park and boasts stunning outdoor seating and a cabana-style bar.

There are only a handful of pubs that stand the tricky test of time and, the legendary Cav just happens to be one of them. Once known as The Cavalier Tavern, this Ponsonby treasure provides a buzzing atmosphere, scrumptious food and ice-cold drinks.

As the name suggests, Burger Geek take burgers very, very seriously. Located on Symonds Street, this burger joint is owned by husband-wife duo Peter and Pene Barton who serve up lovingly handmade burgers, tasty sides and slurpable drinks. They cure their own bacon for seven days and ‘smash grill’ their Wagyu and Angus patties for maximum flavour. Sink your teeth into the Krabby (yes, like Spongebob) or get all fancy with the Mustang—buttermilk fried chicken, kimchi aioli, slaw and cheese.

What used to be Snapdragon is now home to bar and eatery, The Original. This Viaduct spot takes a modern spin on the classic Kiwi pub with innovative cocktails, interior and food menu. There's seasonal items such as Cloudy Bay clams and rabbit croquettes as well as other tasty delights that will impress even the pickiest of diners (we're talking steak). Want a cocktail? Your ice will be chizzled straight from a giant ice block and popped into your drink. 

For all your make up needs, look no further than Smashbox in Ponsonby. At this welcoming beauty store, you'll find all sorts of quality products to add to your make up bag or, book in with the talented ladies and they'll make you look fabulous in no time. Whether you've got a special occasion in the works or need to get glammed up for your wedding day, Smashbox Ponsonby has got your face covered—literally. 

Conveniently located in the heart of Auckland City, Cafe Midnight Express serves up some of the most delicious and authentic Turkish and Mediterranean food. We recommend starting with a mezze platter followed by their tender lamb shank and finishing with their oh-so popular sticky date pudding. If you're lucky, the resident belly dancer will have you off your chair grooving before your entree arrives. Pro tip: make sure you call ahead and make a reservation for weekends—this place is packed for a reason.  

If you’re looking for sun-drenched spot to enjoy a good feed and chilly beverage, then The Good Home is the ticket. This Mt Eden gastro pub has all the makings for a family-friendly outing, drinking session with mates or hearty lunch. Headed by Scottish brothers, Mark and Stevie Brogan, this Normanby Road spot has been created with ‘home’ in mind, so you’ll feel like you’ve left yours and stepped right into theirs. 

With a cult following as big as &Sushi’s, it was only a matter of time before they opened another store. With their almost-too-pretty-to-eat sushi and big, bright interior, &Sushi is the perfect lunch spot right in the centre of town. There will be plenty of sushi to tickle your taste buds, including their range of dessert sushi. That’s lunch sorted!