The Eight Best First Date Destinations in Auckland
Our resident wine and diner takes you on a first date tour of Auckland.
You can't buy love and no doubt many ladies and gents aren't going to be impressed by the gold card being whipped out. But when you're looking for an intimate or fun evening and the chance to court favour in the heart of your potential beloved (or belust), the choice of dining for a date does count.
It's worth knowing that effort, engagement and entertainment are the key elements to having any first date succeed - don't ever forget that - but a nice dinner never goes astray. Depending on your date and her tastes, casual tapas could be a winner, or those with the inclination for the finer things in life might appreciate gourmet dining, or some may enjoy the simple things - a cheeky bottle of wine in the park.
Either way, remember location isn't the be all and end all of a winning date – but it certainly helps.
1. French Café
One of Auckland's finest restaurants this is your guaranteed to impress option, if your date is in to such things. Comprising a highly priced French menu, dressed-to-impress top quality staff with a slightly superior attitude and a wine list that would bankrupt some Pacific Island nations, if you're well flush or just really want to set the bar high, the French Café is the place for you.
2. Sugar Club
A recent addition to the Auckland gastronomic scene, this 200m high fine dining establishment offers the astonishing views from the Southern Hemisphere's tallest structure with an amazing cocktail and dessert menu. For a breath taking and memorable first date, Sugar Club will easily give you a night that ends on a high note.
3. Orphan's Kitchen
Designed with a particular vibe in mind, Orphan's Kitchen is the ideal location if you're looking for a low-key but stylish option (as is our next suggestion). With a hard to find exterior, a neighbourhood vibe and an exquisitely exciting (but unique) menu that won't break the bank, Orphan's is the intimate yet fun destination of choice.
4. Ortolana
Embodying a garden to table rustic coolness, this eatery has all the classiness and swag of a beautiful restaurant (and indeed that's exactly what it is), but holds a relaxed atmosphere and vibe that's perfect for a stress-free drink and bite to eat. Bookings are not available, so timing is critical in securing a table to avoid disappointment – as a bonus it's next door to Milse, ensuring your guest will find her cravings for sweetness perfectly fulfilled.
5. Baduzzi
Run by the team behind The Grove (ouch, your wallet), this Wynyard Quarter destination offers a new take on Italian food, with a particular lean towards classic meatballs. Described by some as 'indulgent but not overblown', this near-seaside eatery has an upbeat and classy feel to it, while the menu is out of this world. From Wagyu to crayfish, the meatballs are truly must-try, while the more exotic main dishes give a new look at classic Italian flavours. While you unfortunately can't replicate the classic 'Lady and the Tramp' spaghetti scene, with this destination in your itinerary, your date will surely leave satisfied.
6. Jervois Steak House
Let's say your date is the true alpha-female, unimpressed by the micro-greens and lightly seared bites of tuna available elsewhere – this requires a different approach. Something powerful, rich and full of protein (not unlike yourself dear reader…) which of course leaves just one option – the Jervois Steak House. Sure to win over any ball-busters heart, the application of a robust Central Otago Pinot Noir and a 350g steak (from Angus to Wagyu depending on her needs) is a sure ticket to success.
7. Euro
She likes to lead the glamorous life, she doesn't need a man's touch… let's say you've found yourself with a femme fatale, dripping in diamonds, who needs to be seen in the scene. You've got one option to impress – so you'll be heading to Euro. Famed for its Viaduct location, sea views and known as a regular haunt for Auckland's A-List, if you're date is craving oysters, champagne and bragging rights to her confidants/Facebook check-in history then this is as good as it gets.
8. Oyster Inn
Admittedly you'd have to be ballsy for a Waiheke Island getaway on a first date, but say you've lined up a fine-wine tour of the island, or beach-trip or other activity (good on you), you've got no choice but to end it perfectly with a trip to Oyster Inn. Specialising in the freshest seafood and a menu that's almost entirely sourced locally from the island, with a particular predilection for shellfish, the Inn is bustling, fast-paced and perfect for a rustic-island boutique eatery dinner with no compromise on quality. Just be sure not to miss the last ferry or you may find yourself trapped overnight, and how unfortunate that would be.
French Cafe Image: David Straight - Eat Here Now
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