Auckland’s culinary landscape continues to flourish, offering a diverse array of dining experiences that cater to all tastes. From new restaurant openings to cherished food trucks, here’s a look at some of the city’s latest and most exciting gastronomic destinations.
New Restaurant Openings
Aka Rooftop Restaurant
Perched atop the Radisson Red hotel, Aka offers diners panoramic city views paired with an Asian fusion menu. Inspired by the Chow brothers’ travels to London, the restaurant features a retractable roof, allowing guests to enjoy the ambiance regardless of the weather. The menu showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary Asian flavors, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique dining experience.
Aarth
Located in Parnell, Aarth is the brainchild of Chef Vinayak “Vicky” Shah, known for his work at renowned establishments like Cassia and Sidart. Aarth presents modern Indian cuisine with a focus on layered spices and clean acidity. The vegetarian menu stands out, featuring dishes like heirloom tomato salad and buffalo milk paneer. For an immersive experience, the chef’s tasting menu, “The Aarth Experience,” offers a curated degustation paired with complementary cocktails.
Sfera
Transporting diners to an Italian summer, Sfera in Northcote Point offers a relaxed, shareable menu. Highlights include fluffy focaccia with butter and anchovies, crispy calamari with zucchini, and lamb belly skewers. The ambiance and cuisine make it an ideal spot for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Beloved Food Trucks
The Lucky Taco
Since 2013, The Lucky Taco has been serving authentic Mexican street food from their iconic food truck. Located at 230 Ponsonby Road on Saturdays, they offer a variety of tacos, including marinated skirt steak and tiger prawn options. Their commitment to quality and flavor has made them a staple in Auckland’s food truck scene.
Amaranto
Specializing in gluten-free Italian cuisine, Amaranto has been delighting Aucklanders since 2018. Their menu features handmade pasta, ricotta and spinach quiche on potato crust, and mushroom arancini with truffle mayo. Amaranto’s dedication to fresh, healthy, and quality homemade food sets them apart in the food truck community.
The Rolling Pin
For dumpling enthusiasts, The Rolling Pin offers a variety of handmade dumplings with flavors ranging from pork and chive to vegan options. Their commitment to freshness and taste has garnered a loyal following, making them a must-visit for those craving authentic dumplings on the go.
Auckland’s dynamic food scene continues to evolve, offering both residents and visitors an ever-expanding array of culinary delights. Whether you’re exploring new restaurant openings or seeking out your favorite food trucks, there’s always something delicious waiting around the corner.