Overview
It's January in Auckland, which means the city has emptied out, nobody knows what day it is and summer is in full swing — don't be the fool who wastes these glorious days indoors watching Netflix. Start 2022 the way you mean to go on, and fill these holiday hours with seasides and sunsets, cocktails and cool breezes.
The best spot to enjoy the city's glorious weather is, of course, down on the city's waterfront. Whether you want to eat crayfish mac and cheese next to the harbour or sip a bottle of something crisp right over the water, these are the best restaurants along Auckland waterfront to settle in for a splendid long lunch or a few pre-dinner margaritas.
WHITE & WONG'S
The old Crew Club, this restaurant has retained the cool and relaxed vibe of its previous owner, but has completely transformed to an Asian fusion restaurant with dumplings, buns and curry. On its vast menu, you'll find delicious sharing plates like Peking Duck, crispy fried chicken and wagyu beef dumplings. If you feel a bit overwhelmed with choices, then why not give the $75 banquet menu a go. We'd recommend sitting on the veranda, enjoying your feast with a couple of cocktails in hand, looking out over the amazing water views.
SOUL BAR & BISTRO
An Auckland staple, Soul Bar & Bistro has remained a classic all these years for a good reason: it offers a dining experience not to be missed. If you're looking for an excuse to wear a new outfit, Soul Bar is the ideal place to dress to impress. Hands down one of the classiest venues on the Viaduct, the celebrated location draws crowds from all over Auckland. Sit back and watch the yachts while eating a feast of the freshest ceviche and blackened hapuka.
Anna Kidman
GIRAFFE
If you're looking to splash out, Simon Gault's waterfront eatery is elegant, poised and filled with both character and charisma. Whether it be breakfast, brunch, drinks, a date night or a work-day refuel, this is an all-day eatery that will see you right. The menu is split into sections, starring snacks, cool, hot, social feasts, limited and sharing dishes. Whatever your choice, you can trust it's been created using the best organic and locally sourced produce. You know you're eating fresh when the menu notes that availability is subject to fishing weather.
Mrs Jones
HELLO BEASTY
This trendy spot in the Viaduct caused a stir when it first opened in 2019, and has remained one of the city's favourite dining spots since then. While Hello Beasty is tipped as "contemporary New Zealand fusion cuisine," the restaurant takes inspiration from the cuisines of Japan, Korea and China. Together with head chef Giann Ordonio, owners Stuart and Emma Rogan have created a menu including spicy sticky beef buns, tteokbokki rice cakes, slow-cooked lamb shoulder in spicy Sichuan curry, as well as options from the Hibachi grill — the char siu double pork cutlet is a must try.
OSTRO
Known for its million dollar view, you cannot look past Ostro for the ultimate waterfront dining experience. Perfect for any occasion, we suggest sampling the dinner menu and watching dusk fall over the harbour. Favourites include the Beef Wellington, pork belly and lamb, as well as the afternoon high tea menu. Booking is highly recommended, but if you get there a little early we can recommend popping into the recently opened Bar Non Solo next door for a few pre-dinner cocktails.
FISH
Perched on the end of Princes Wharf, Fish is a must-dine destination for uninterrupted views of the Waitemata Harbour and a fresh seafood experience. In line with the overarching seafood theme, sustainable kai moana is the core theme of the menu, showcasing some of the freshest produce available. Standout dishes include a rich bouillabaisse fish stew and crayfish mac and cheese.
BADUZZI
Enjoy sophisticated Italian fare with excellent ocean views at this Auckland favourite. Start with the hand-rolled meatballs — both the beef and crayfish varieties are recommended. The kitchen's handmade pasta is absolutely divine — personal favourites include the duck and beetroot. Several proteins can be ordered individually, making it easy to try many things. And make sure to give the signature tiramisu a try too, you won't regret it.
THE CRAB SHACK
Seafood lovers rejoice. Not only does The Crab Shack satisfy all your crab cravings (it even has the King Alaska Crab — expensive but worth every penny), but it also makes it hard to say no for either lunch or dinner with its daily special deals. Perfect for a snack or meal after work on a hot day.