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To barbecue or not to barbecue? That is the question at Korean barbecue joint Faro. And, in our humble opinion, we vote barbecue. Choose from a selection of raw meat (the marinated soy sauce chicken is a fave of ours), seafood and veggies to cook on your very own grill. If you’re not so much into barbecuing, there’s a range of prepared dishes including a stir-fried kumara noodle dish as well as spicy pork and tofu kimchi soup. It’s a dining experience unlike any other and it’s not to be missed.

The Food Truck Garage is all about fast food with a healthy twist. Starting as a reality TV series showing how delicious and nutritious fast food really can be, this buzzing concept has now opened its second restaurant location in Wynyard Quarter. Their specialities lay in a large array of healthy goodness, from classic burgers and tacos to superfood salads. It's perfect for popping in for a quick and guilt-free lunch and their fresh cold pressed juices are something you'll end up raving about. 

The colour white symbolises new beginnings and that’s what White Spa + Float Lounge in Herne Bay strives for. With a focus of facials, waxing, massage, organic tans, tints and nails, this spa believes in mindful, holistic therapy solutions including their insanely relaxing flotation pods—you’ll get hooked on them! There’s tailored treatments for fellas, combination therapies and of course, the opportunity to float away your woes. White Spa + Float Lounge even do late nights (9.30pm from Tuesday to Thursday, and Saturday and Sunday) so you can get your fix after work hours.

First it was Fort Greene then it was Bestie and now, Lebanese eatery, Gemmayze St (named after the bustling restaurant-heavy street in Beirut) has joined St Kevins Arcade tribe of unique, slightly hidden eateries. Gemmayze St is lead by Samir Allen, a taleneted Kiwi chef with Lebanese roots. The fit out transports you straight to Lebanon with Arabic script lining and monochrome photos. The walls have accents of copper dotted throughout the restaurant. Food wise, expect a trip for the taste buds with beautifully presented mezze dishes. 

One of Parnell’s heritage buildings is now home to ASC, an innovative hair salon specialising in expert colouring (taking place upstairs in the airy, tranquil loft) and sleek cutting and styling. ASC is run by husband and wife duo Stephen and Andrew Cockle who have over 40 years of local and international experience. Sip on craft beer or boutique tea and coffee as you let them work their hairdressing magic on your locks. 

Cocktails are best enjoyed with a view and no one knows this better than waterfront bar Sardine. The funky little bar sees patrons packing in like sardines—hence the name. Here you’ll find wine, beer and a whooole lot of cocktails. You can have your fave cocktail custom-made or opt for one of their delicious creations—we’re all about ‘the prior’ with kiwifruit, vodka, honey, Tail basil, egg white and house-made aloe vera soda. Curb your hunger with a selection of dishes from White + Wong’s and Burger Boy menus.

If your beauty bag is looking a little empty, it’s time to pay the team at Mecca Cosmetica in Ponsonby a visit. Here you’ll find more than 40 of the world’s best beauty brands such as Nars, Stila, bareMinerals and Chantecaille (swoon!). Aside from make-up, they’ve also got skin and hair care as well as fragrances. If you need some expert advice, their resident make-up artists and skincare specialists will point you in the right direction. Warning: there’s a high chance you’re gonna want to buy ALL the things!

Once-upon-a-time a horse stable, The Oakroom has been transformed into an airy and beautiful restaurant and bar in Victoria Park Market.  The outdoor space has stunning views and the menu is perfect for sharing with friends – small plates and all the cheesy goodness of pizza. The Oakroom staff are oh-so friendly, and make a mean cocktail to boot. 

In the world of interior and homeware, some stores have well and truly got it going on. Crave Home in Birkenhead is one of these stores. You’ll find gorgeous bits and bobs from prints, cushions and textiles to ceramics, planters and lighting—basically everything you could need and want for your home. Crave Home also stock toys, décor and adorable rompers, booties and sweaters for bubbas. 

It’s no secret the ladies in this city are spoilt for choice with places to be preened and polished. However the guys aren’t quite so lucky—enter The Grooming Lounge. Tucked away in the CBD, The Grooming Lounge is an exclusive men’s grooming lounge with a wide range of services more luxurious than most. With massages and premium styling products only being part of the line up, this is the place to go for guys who want the best grooming experience in town.

Situated in Britomart, Ryder Salon is one of the best hair salons in Auckland. The beautiful designer interior, which includes art from sculptor Michael Parekowhai, sets the perfect scene for when you want to get your locks chopped, curled or coloured. The staff are super-friendly and extremely talented, so you can be assured that you’ll leave looking and feeling like a million dollars. It’s is also committed to sustainability and every product they sell in their retail zone is Paraben and Sulphate free. Ryder Salon is a true luxury hair salon experience.

When you're looking for a place to dance the night away, then head to twentyone, for a night to remember. Situated in the SKYCITY building, there's always an epic DJ on hand to keep you grooving as you enjoy some of their epic cocktails—the Bad Shirley goes down a treat. When the munchies strike, twentyone serves up some seriously good burgers, amongst other bites. The interior is luxurious, the staff fantastic and the experience epic. Get amongst. 

Sitting on a corner in the CBD, Mo’s Bar is a friendly joint where people pop by for after work drinks and catch-ups. It only has room for around 20 people but once you’re in, there’s great cocktails, beer, wine and cigars to fill your night with. Mo’s even gives you corn chips and salsa to nibble on—how’s that for hospitality?! 

Pocket Bar & Kitchen is an awesome neighbourhood bar in Grey Lynn that keeps locals happy with an excellent range of food and bevvies. The bar has a glass roof that lets in the sun and locks in the heat—a cosy pozzy for evening drinks and a bite to eat. We’re fans of their Northern African spiced lamb chops, warm kumara and caramelised leek salad, and teriyaki chicken salad. Make sure you try a cocktail or two—they’re crafted from seasonal produced and matched with spirits. 

With the biggest rooftop bar in Mission Bay, Rickshaw Eddy's is one of Auckland's best spots for enjoying a beer in the sun. Relax in one of their arm chairs, or grab a pozzy on a stool and enjoy the nostalgic, family feel (kids are welcome here).  The menu is all the faves you'd expect from a pub, such as classic nachos and beef sliders as well as a variety of pizzas and burgers. If sweet is more your thing, they have toasted waffles, and pineapple trifle pina colada (with FLOSS) on offer too. Yum. 

Located on Nuffield Street, Tasca is the perfect place for a pit stop when the shopping bags are weighing you down. Having taken inspiration from the backstreet tapas bars of Spain, the eatery’s ambiance is awesome and the widespread menu is nothing short of tasty. If you’re wanting to expand your palette’s horizons, have a look at the tapas list or if you’re feeling a bit shy, the main menu have some old favourites with a European twist. Whatever you decide upon, Tasca is always a good idea.

If you’re in need of somewhere to shake your tail feather this weekend, Cassette Nine is the place to do it. The legendary Auckland bar is always pumping with local and international bands and DJs. You’ll also find their equally legendary teapot cocktails—served in a teapot, of course. The bar prides itself on attracting people of all walks of life and, no matter how terrible your dancing may be, Cassette Nine will welcome you with open arms. Be sure to check out their Bitchin Bingo nights and their food menu—especially their chilli dog and New York-style cheesecake.

Nothing feels as good as a sweet yoga sesh. Lucky for us, Yoga West has set up shop in Titirangi and is spreading peace and good vibes all around town. Let’s start by talking about their impressive selection of yoga classes: they’ve got Vinyasa for an energising kick, Yin for a chill stretch and Slow Flow for something calming. Not to mention pregnancy yoga for those mumma-to-bes out there! Staying in theme with helping people keep healthy, zen and happy, Yoga West also offers meditation sessions, health and wellness consultations as well as massage therapy. Yoga West is the ultimate destination if you’re wanting to bring bliss and balance into your life.

Epic Training Studios is, err, truly epic and unlike any gym you’ve experienced before. There’s no such thing as one size fits all here. Instead, the friendly folk will assess your movement to identify any imbalances, weakness and strengths to create safe and effective training programmes suited to your needs and ability. They’ve got a range of options for you to try from strength and cardio training to heart rate training and recovery routines. Their signature workout is 30 minutes of high intensity interval training so brace yourself for some serious sweating. They also offer nutrition and lifestyle advice to help you achieve your #gymgoals. 

Northern Arena offers all kinds of exercise options in one complete membership to get your heart pumpin’ and your bod sweating. This Auckland gym has swimming pools and swim classes for anyone looking to make a splash while they get active. There’s a full gym of equipment to use as well as more than 115 of group fitness classes per week. The group sessions range from yoga and circuit training to aqua fitness and boxing—there’s something for everyone. For you active parents, there’s even a supervised play area where you can leave your sprogs while you get busy breaking that sweat!

Located in Rosedale, CrossFit Auckland was established in 2008 with a second gym opening more recently in Ponsonby. As the name might just give away, CrossFit Auckland specialise in 60-minute CrossFit sessions designed to strength and condition your bod. If you're short on time, they offer a 30-minute QuickFit high intensity workout—the perfect lunchtime workout. With other workout options such as Barbell Club and XLR8 outdoor training, CrossFit Auckland is the perfect place for a killer workout.

Xtend Barre has made its way to Auckland and found a home in Ponsonby. The fitness craze merges pilates and dance together to create an adrenaline-filled workout that strengthens, lengthens and chisels the body. With each class featuring an elegant yet energetic array of movements that enhance flexibility, improve balance and challenge the core, Xtend Barre will have you dancing in no time—if you can move the next morning that is. 

Located in Parnell and Auckland Domain, Shape In The City have bootcamps for all fitness levels. With a simple mission to help you achieve your fitness goals, these guys will whip you into shape. The three bootcamp offerings include HIIT IT, Bikini Body and Express 30 HIT and all promise to be energising, fast-paced and motivating, all to help you achieve those fitness goals.

Located in the heart of Ponsonby Central, you’ll stumble upon Ceres Fresh Market. The market store stocks fresh local produce and has an on-site juice and smoothie bar. Here you’ll find seasonal fruit and veggies of every colour of the rainbow. The best part? Everything is organic so you can rest easy knowing no chemical nasties are on them apples. There is also a grocery section stocking organic and environmentally conscious brands.

Vietnamese on-the-go? Look no further than Hello Mister on Hardinge Street in the CBD. Hello Mister is the brainchild of Mike Lee and Jason Kit who have combined traditional Vietnamese flavours with the growing need for lunch to be quick and easy. Pop in a pick up a couple of Mister Rolls filled with your choice of lemongrass chicken, crispy pork, peking duck, crumbed fish or prawns, or get your sammie fix with a banh mi. The pho is guaranteed to warm your cockles and the Vietnamese iced coffee will be a refreshing caffeine hit come summer. 

It’s true, Bluebells makes Auckland a better place. The Hillsborough café is the brand's first, and has since grown to include those in both Kingsland and Commercial Bay. Step inside this bright and light space and you’ll stumble upon the prettiest treats you ever did see. Bluebells is a sweet-tooth paradise, specialising in cupcakes, slices, doughnuts, macarons and—of course—cakes! Pop in for a treat and a cuppa or check out their website and get a cake delivered to your loved one.

Is it a pancake? Is it a taco? It’s neither—it’s a paco! Project Paco is a food truck specialising in what can only be described as taco-shaped pancakes. Whether you’re into sweet or savoury, the friendly folk have your back. The menu features the likes of ‘chef’s favourite’ (chorizo, scrambled egg, red onions and sweet chilli sauce) and ‘berry chiacake’ (berry chia compote, whipped cream and smashed biscuit). You’ll be pleased to know Project Paco are all about fresh, ethically conscious food and source all their ingredients locally.

On the corner of the Clevedon roundabout is the aptly named The Corner Kitchen & Bar. It’s a laidback, welcoming spot perfect for a lengthy feast, well-deserved drink or just a quick pitstop. The chefs pull inspiration from what’s available at their doorstep and are dedicated to showcasing local ingredients in everything that comes out of the kitchen. The bar also keeps to the local theme with a selection of New Zealand beer and wine on the drinks list.

You’ll find Plume Restaurant located within a spectacular Matakana vineyard. The rustic restaurant is all about local New Zealand wine and produce and boasts a menu starring a diverse range of dishes. While the menu changes on the regular, you can expect to find a range of flavoursome salads, pasta and curry. They serve almost every meat available with pork, chicken, beef, duck, lamb all making appearances. For the ultimate dining experience, opt to do a six-course degustation with matching wines. Or, if you’re visiting with your bestie/mum/significant other, go for the vineyard platter for two with all the trimmings. Make sure you’ve got time on your side because you won’t want to leave this picturesque spot.

The vegetarians amongst us will absolutely love Vulcan Lane’s Raw Power Café. Specialising in vege cuisine, you’ll find fresh juices, smoothies, salads and more. Visit for breakfast and you’ll discover free-range omelettes, scrambled tofu and lemon pancakes. Lunch is all about falafel pita pockets, tofu mushroom hash and a range of massive open sandwiches. We’re all about their self-service salad bar where you can stack your plate as if you’re playing a game of Jenga! Vegetarian or not, you’ll be sure to find something delicious for your breakfast or lunch.

Sweet tooths, you’re in for a total treat at Sweetiepie Cupcakes in St Heliers. 100 per cent living up to its namesake, Sweetiepie Cupcakes create spectacular looking and tasting cupcakes with daily specials including coconut lime, peanut butter, Jaffe, sticky date, salted caramel, chocolate passion…the list goes on and on! They also whip up customised themed cakes for any occasion. 

We can always always count on Atomic Coffee Roasters for a strong coffee game, and the brews from their Wynyard Quarter café are no different. Sitting pretty next to Fonterra on Halsey Street, the café is the perfect spot to get your caffeine fix on your way to the office. Here you’ll find freshly baked delights, sammies and—of course—damn good coffee. On ya, Atomic!

Situated in the heart of Epsom, Corner Burger has the aim to serve Auckland’s tastiest burgers—and that they do. Here you’ll find a mouth-watering selection of burgers including Mexican beef with guacamole and corn salsa and sticky pulled pork with apple slaw. If you like your fries chunky, their agria fries with house-made aioli are not to be missed. Finish things off with a Kohu Road ice cream shake—we can’t go past the salted caramel offering. Corner Burger cater to all dietary requirements with gluten-free buns, vege-friendly offerings and a dairy-free coconut and mango shake. 

Ponsonby is home to brand new eatery, AdamArnold, focused on sharing plates, great wine, and good vibes. AdamArnold is run by partners Tobias and Brad who, after years of working is hospo, were keen to open a space of their own. The menu ranges from breakfast to dins, with winners like French toast, bruschetta and muesli to start your day off, and affordable share plates—perfect for after-work nibbles and vinos.

If there’s one thing Auckland has lacked over the past few years, it’s a decent nightclub. Other major cities have nailed this concept but unfortunately for the City of Sails, it just hasn’t happened. Luckily for us, a rad new concept has hit Shortland Street and is the answer to all our nightclub prayers. Impala is the brainchild of three mates, Thommy, Dan and Reuben who have joined forces to create a free house bar with the latest innovations in production and DJ gear, a top-notch selection of wine, craft beer and cocktails and a wicked line-up of artists. The space was formed in collab with renowned NZ visual artist, Ken Griffen and will help Impala change the face of Auckland’s nightclub scene once and for all. Bring. It. On. 

Located on Ponsonby Road, The Whiskey specialises in—you guessed—whisky. In fact, this bar has one of the biggest whisky selections in town. The staff here know their stuff and are more than happy to point you in the right direction when it comes to choosing your dram. Open from 5pm to the wee small hours, this dark and cosy spot busts rock music until close time. Whisky with a side of rock and roll...what’s not to love?

Located on Richmond Road, you’ll find the lovely ladies at H & Co. This is one-stop shop does it all, offering both hair AND beauty services. Get a facial in the beauty room and then head downstairs to finish off with a blow wave—talk about pampering! You can get brow feathering done here—a semi-permanent brow tattooing technique that replicates the look of the hair. Hellooo perfect brows!

Jordan Rondel of The Caker has made a name for herself for creating beautiful cafes in Auckland and now, she’s opened he cake salon, Salon de Cake on K Road. Perhaps an unlikely spot for a baby pink and white-hued cake store, but Salon de Cake is a welcome addition to the neighbourhood. The space functions as a spot for cake pick-ups, wedding consultations, events, venue hire and in its simplest form, a place to pop in for mini cakes and a cuppa tea. The Caker’s books and cake mixes are also available. 

Nestled in Faraday Street, Parnell, The Beauty Bar is a one-stop shop for all things beauty. Headed up by Charlotte Harrison, a qualified skin specialist, they've got the skills to fix all your beauty faux pas. Check out their holistic offers like organic plant-based spray tans or dream honey facials. Beauty maintenance, skincare, holistic lash and brow treatments, facials, IPL hair reduction, permanent make up, spray tan, shellac—you name it, The Beauty Bar does it. Open by appointment only. 

Mt Eden’s very own slice of Italy, Mt Eden's Pasta & Cuore, provides authentic Italian dishes and—trust us—you won’t be disappointed. The chef is from Italy so expect to be wowed with pasta made from scratch, beautiful antipasti boards and sensational desserts. The tagliatelle with classic bolognese ragout will make your tastebuds sing, as will be spaghetti alla chitarra with real carbonara sauce—a winner for those who prefer creamy pasta dishes. They also do pasta-making classes. Learn how to make the likes of tagliatelle and spaghetti in their beginner’s class before advancing to their filled pasta class.

If you ever find yourself craving a foodie escape from the city, look no further than the stunning Casita Miro on Waiheke Island. Specialising in Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant overlooks a vineyard and is all about shared dining, tapas and raciones (larger plates), which make for a fun, relaxing dining experience. Casita Miro is available for weddings, hen’s parties and other fabulous events and the Chef’s Feista menu for groups of 10 diners or more will see you tucking into seasonal takes on paella, braised ox cheek and goats cheese croquetas. 

While Petra Shawarma isn’t much to look at from the outside, the Middle Eastern restaurant makes up for its lack of interior design with its flavoursome eats and friendly service. The small eatery dishes up all the classics such as homemade hummus, tabbouleh, fafa beans and baba ganoush. For your main, choose between dishes starring the likes of grilled beef, minced lamb and spiced chicken. If you’re all about dat vege lyf, there are more falafel dishes than you can poke a stick at. Don’t leave without having dessert—their baklava is the best in the bizz.

Oh, how we love visiting Devonport Chocolates. The boutique chocolate store specialises in quality handmade chocolates and truffles that are not only delicious but also oh-so pretty—half the fun of visiting the store is simply gazing at all the intricately crafted treats. The chocolates and truffles come in a vast selection of flavours. Think strawberry rose wine, flat white, passionfruit honey and limoncello—you name it and chances are they have it! We’re particularly fond of their chocolate figurines in shapes such as a penguin, cat, purse and a high heel shoe. Grab a chocolatey treat for your loved one or simply spoil yourself—go on, you deserve it!

If there’s one thing the Vietnamese do well, it’s food—particularly bánh mì. You can get your Vietnamese sammie fix at Elliott Street’s Viet Sandwich pop-up eatery. For a quick and easy lunch on the go, swing past and pick up a bánh mì stuffed with the likes of grilled pork, beef stew, meatballs, lemongrass chicken and vegetarian ‘ham’. If you’re after something lighter, they also have fresh rice paper summer rolls and noodle salads. Whatever you opt for, rest assured all their dishes are fresh and very very flavoursome.  

Black and Gold is a bright and airy cafe on the North Shore serving up a delicious brekky and brunch menu. You can't go wrong with one of their many egg options using eggs from happy chooks, or, for something a little more substantial, try the grilled halloumi and poached egg with toasted pinenut and fennel salad. They also have options for those who want to have lunch on the fly—we love their sliders with slow-roasted lamb leg, grilled corn salsa and slaw. To satiate your thirst, opt for a smoothie or one of their coffees—Black and Gold serves up some of the best coffee in Auckland. 

Head to New Lynn and you’ll find one of the coolest cafes in Auckland. Complete with concrete floors and a high ceiling, The Tannery is a joint venture between Mt Atkinson Coffee and Kohu Road Ice Cream with a menu of bagels, freshly made slices and sweet treats, great coffee and our favourite item, affogato. On the bagel front there is New York (gruyere, pastrami, hot mustard and cornichons), S’mores and the 12-hour slow cooked BBQ brisket with chipotle sauce and apple slaw—all of which come served on wooded boards. 

In One Tree Hill, relative newcomer Weta Coffee is serving up some of the best coffee in Auckland. Sourcing 100 per cent premium Arabica beans from around the world, they roast small baches in true artisan style to bring the freshest cup to you. They also have some tasty treats on hand, if you need a little something to hit the spot. They also make a contribution to the conservation of the Giant Weta to Auckland Zoo with each cup of coffee sold—noice. 

Located on Newmarket’s Teed Street, Petal Cupcakes is your one stop shop for a real ‘sweet’ gift… or a treat for yourself! Specialising in—you guessed it—cupcakes, Petal Cupcakes have up to 20 flavours available on any given day. The have all your classics (vanilla, raspberry and double chocolate), as well as some more unique flavours (black Doris plum, tropical mango and golden syrup). Buy a single cupcake or opt for a four, six or 12 pack. Trust us when we say, one is simply not enough—they’re absolutely delish and very moreish.

Away from the busyness of Ponsonby Road sits espresso bar, too Good. Serving up some of the best coffee in Auckland, it is the perfect spot to stop for your morning caffeine fix—but if coffee isn't your thing, they have plenty of other warming sips to choose from such as Belgian hot chocolate or Kawakawa tea. If you're feeling a little bit peckish, they have some pastries, slices and handmade chocolates made by the chefs at Criollo available as well as healthy and delicious breakfast wraps.

Located in the heart of Newmarket, Camper Coffee serves up some of the best coffee in Auckland and has quickly developed a loyal fan-base. The man behind this little gem, Lee, is passionate about all things coffee and loves to chat to his customers. This hole-in-the-wall will provide your coffee fix and send you away with a smile on your face.

You’ll be forgiven for thinking you're in Italy upon arrival at this acclaimed Waiheke winery, restaurant and function venue. With the founder being Antonio Crisci, the Italian genius behind Auckland Italian institutions Toto’s and Non Solo Pizza, this place is worth catching the ferry for.

A bar, a restaurant, a venue. The Bluestone Room is one of Auckland’s best hidden gems. Situated in the small stone street of Durham Lane and in one of the oldest commercial buildings in the city, it is a dark and delightful venue that will impress. The gastro pub serves up seriously good burgers, pasta, seafood and salads. Be warned, their serving sizes are generous. If you prefer something lighter, there are plenty of options to hit the spot. For dessert, you can’t go past Aunty Betty’s Banana Split—served the way it was when you were a kid. Join the club, and you’ll be treated to a two-for-one lunch on Friday. The Bluestone Room also has a space upstairs for events.

A Saturday morning trip to Matakana is pretty much on every Aucklander’s agenda, but when you’re finished at the markets, head across the road to the historic Matakana Village Pub for something to eat and a drink. Built in 1903, there is plenty of outdoor seating in the garden bar. The menu is seasonal, sourced locally and freshly prepared. We can’t go past having a plate of oysters with a glass of vino, and their variety of craft beers and cider is on point. The friendly staff, fabulous venue, scrumptious food and lip-smacking drinks make The Matakana a favourite in our books.

Ellerslie is home to one of the most authentic Mexican restaurants in Auckland, Mexican Specialties. They’ve become Auckland-famous for their soft tacos filled with beef, prawn and chicken as well as their crunchy tostada. While you can dine in and take away, Mexican Specialties also has a range of Mexican products for sale. Pick up a bag of soft tacos, sauces, organic vanilla, hot sauce and even a sombrero! 

Three-thirtyitis getting you down? Treat yourself to an afternoon pick-me-up from Delish Cupcakes. First opening in Forrest Hill, the popular cupcake store has opened a second site in the heart of the CBD. Their cupcakes are perfect for your afternoon-tea shout with flavours such as jersey caramel, cookies and cream, coco lime and banoffee. There are also options available for vegan and gluten-free folk and their cupcakes can be ordered online.

Meat, meat and more meat is what you’re in for during a trip to Cazador on Dominion Road. This family owned and operated restaurant focuses on wild food, particularly game meats and fresh ingredients sourced from Kiwi hunters and producers. On Cazador’s menu you’ll find everything from chargrilled venision, rabbit leg tagine, babaghanoosh and if you’re game—crispy lamb’s brains. Their dessert menu is worth leaving room floor (the dark chocolate and brandy mousse is a standout) and there’s plenty of local craft beer and wine on offer to wash the rich food down. Not a meat fan? They also offer fish and vegetarian dishes. 

Before you ask, yes—this is the Blockhouse Bay café responsible for that fried chicken eggs benedict you’ve been dreaming about. Sitting along Blockhouse Bay Road, The Block Café has made a name for itself dishing out an array of delicious breakfast and lunch (and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday) food and a great selection of drinks—coffee, cocktails, wine, beer—take your pick. Their evening menu features the likes of kingfish ceviche, crispy prawn tacos, pizza of the week and an epic Tomahawk pork chop. There’s an expansive deck if you’d like to take in the fresh air or cosy up inside and enjoy one of the best meals you’ll have in that area of Auckland. 

Take a trip to Kumeu and visit Blossoms Café for a treat.  There’s plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy a tasty breakfast—the Big Breakfast is just that, and the French toast is a must. Their lunch menu has a variety of burgers, with salad and pasta options. Blossoms Café is licensed, so enjoy a drink with your lunch. 

If it’s cupcakes your heart desires, pay the friendly folk at Forrest Hill’s Delish Cupcakes a visit. Order online or pop in to their Forrest Hill store to enjoy a cupcake (or two) and a cuppa. Choose between flavours such as peanut butter surprise, salty caramel, peachy pash and Jafa. Or, leave the decision-making in their capable hands with a lucky dip of cupcakes. Kids will luurve their novelty creations featuring Cookie Monster, Elmo, dinosaurs, superheros and more. They also have gluten-free and vegan options available.

The only thing better than an epic meal, is an epic meal with an epic view. It’s fair to say waterfront restaurant Grangers has both bases well and truly covered. Located at an arm’s reach from Half Moon Bay’s marina, the bustling taphouse and kitchen has a menu that is earning them a reputation around town (the good kind).