Unique dining experiences in Auckland

Ever tried a dish that combines Peruvian and Japanese flavours? Welcome to Inca Ponsonby, where Latin America meets Asia. INCA is inspired by critically acclaimed chef Nic Watt’s travels to Peru where he studied the art of Nikkei cuisine (Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine). With the cold snap of weather arriving - we think it’s a perfect time to enjoy their woodfired grill, watching meals being prepared and finished right in front of your eyes. 

Looking for a whole new Japanese food experience? We highly recommend you book a table at Azabu and order their volcano sushi (one of 100 Iconic Auckland Eats). A plate of rolled sushi will arrive at your table and be instantly flamed by the waiter using a mini gas gun, causing the tobiko to loudly snap, crackle and pop. It’s pure entertainment.  So, sit back and enjoy the magic!!  

Located in Westfield Newmarket, Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq is a cocktail bar that gives arcades and ticket games a new life. From video games to bowling lanes and dodgem cars, the range of games at Archie Brothers is truly impressive. Feeling thirsty? Make sure you try one of their crazy shakes. Our favourite being the Candy Stand - a boozy strawberry shake with a splash of white rum and Frangelico, with a vanilla-frosted decorative rim, a giant lollipop, a candy kebab, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles. They also have a range of delicious things to eat. 

This is a ‘Red Alert’ for the foodies out there looking for a unique experience! This is fine dining at its very best. Pasture is a small independent restaurant with only six seats. It is all about delicious, innovative food and drink. The six people dining will sit around a u-shaped table and admire the work of the chefs preparing their food and drink in front of them. The entire evening does take about 3 to 3.5 hours and you will be served between 17-23 courses. A truly intimate experience that will blow both your mind and tastebuds away! 

Looking for a fun night out with your friends? You can’t go past Caluzzi for the ultimate dinner entertainment experience. Located on Karangahape Rd, Caluzzi is Auckland’s original Drag Queen cabaret show! Be ready for award winning Drag Queen waitresses that will have you laughing from the moment you step through the door. Hilarious shows, dazzling costumes and a delicious and carefully selected menu – a night to remember. 

Situated at the top of the Sky Tower, Orbit offers sensational views. The dining room rotates once every hour, providing a truly unique experience with amazing 360-degree panoramic views of Auckland, the Hauraki Golf and beyond. On top of the incredible views, this brasserie offers a delicious kiwi-inspired à la carte menu that features the best local and seasonal produce. As New Zealand’s only rotating restaurant offering 360-degree views, it’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t forget. 

Immerse yourself in Auckland’s harbour setting with dinner on the water. Enjoy canapes and a welcome drink as you depart the dock on a 2.5-hour sailing experience on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour. Enjoy a three-course meal catered by viaduct restaurant Coops Corner Pub. Make sure to capture a shot of the Auckland city skyline, along with the iconic Harbour Bridge. Sit back and enjoy the views. 

Meat lovers are in for a treat at El Sizzling Chorizo. Located in Ponsonby Central, this Argentinian BBQ restaurant serves delicious and authentic Asado meats (short rib, flank, sausages) and uses a traditional cooking method over the embers. Watch those delicious meats sizzling on the fire in front of you. Add a little bit of Chimichurri sauce to your meat, while sipping on an Argentinean red wine, you can’t get more authentic than that - a cosy atmosphere guaranteed.  

Cake n Ladders is a great spot to chill, offering coffee, smoothies, cupcakes and toasted sandwiches, plus a variety of board games to use for $3 an hour. The gaming library includes traditional family games, Euro games, games featured on TableTop and more. The perfect place to catch up with a group of friends or for couples on a date. It is a space to spend time together while having a lot of fun! 

Located right in the heart of Mount Eden village, The Garden Shed is a little hidden gem. We guarantee you will want to visit more than once. With garden tools hanging from the walls, pots and plants everywhere and a beautiful, lush courtyard, this is truly a nature lovers dream. A great escape from the hustle and bustle and a perfect place to snap a shot for your Instagram.