Auckland's Top Fine Dining Restaurants: A Must-Try

List for Foodies

Auckland has emerged as a legitimate foodie travel destination. The city's fine dining scene has exploded in recent years, with world-class restaurants serving up innovative cuisine that rivals the best in the world.

From harbour-view seafood spots to intimate urban spaces, here's your ultimate guide to Auckland's most exceptional restaurants.

Why Auckland is a Fine Dining Destination

Thanks to Auckland's coastal location and New Zealand's pristine natural environment, local chefs have access to some incredibly fresh ingredients. From seafood pulled straight from nearby waters to premium meats raised in the country's green pastures, restaurants here are spoiled for choice when it comes to seasonal produce. 

Mix in the city's fantastic cultural diversity and the creative spirit of its chefs, and you've got a dining scene that's both sophisticated and uniquely ‘New Zealand’.

The Top Fine Dining Restaurants in Auckland

The Grove

When it comes to fine dining in Auckland, The Grove sets the gold standard. This prestigious venue has mastered the art of modern New Zealand cuisine with a French twist, offering an inspired experience.

The restaurant's tasting menu is a journey through New Zealand's finest seasonal ingredients, with each dish telling a story of local flavours. The roast lamb, seaweed and comvita manuka honey is a standout – a dish that perfectly encapsulates The Grove's philosophy of elevating local ingredients through masterful preparation.

‘The tasting menu is a journey through New Zealand's finest seasonal ingredients, with each dish telling a story of local flavours.’

What really sets The Grove apart is its intimate atmosphere. The dining room, with its subtle lighting and elegant decor, creates the perfect backdrop for special occasions or romantic evenings. It's no wonder this restaurant consistently tops lists of Auckland's finest dining establishments.

Sid at The French Cafe

Under the masterful direction of chef Sid Sahrawat, this iconic Auckland restaurant has been transformed into a temple of culinary excellence.

The menu is a celebration of French culinary tradition and New Zealand's finest ingredients, with dishes like Te Mana lamb and Ora King salmon elevated through creative presentation and innovative flavour combinations.

Whether you opt for the tasting menu or choose to go à la carte, you're in for a memorable feast. The restaurant's private dining options make it particularly popular for special celebrations and corporate events, where the expert-level service adds an extra layer of luxury.

Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill

There's something magical about dining by the water, and Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill takes full advantage of its premium location. 

‘The menu reads like a love letter to the ocean, featuring sustainably sourced seafood prepared with precision and creativity.’

This picturesque venue combines stunning harbour views with some of the finest seafood in Auckland. The menu reads like a love letter to the ocean, featuring sustainably sourced seafood prepared with precision and creativity. 

The restaurant's wine list deserves special mention, featuring an impressive selection of New Zealand wines that pair perfectly with the seafood-focused menu. Time your visit for sunset, when the harbour views become truly spectacular.

Local Tip: The grilled snapper and lobster thermidor are legendary, but don't miss the oysters – they're about as fresh as they come, harvested nearby.

MASU by Nic Watt

MASU has revolutionised Japanese fine dining in Auckland, bringing robata-style cooking to new heights. Located in the SKYCITY precinct, this edgy restaurant offers a dining experience that engages all the senses.

The traditional robata grill is the heart of MASU, turning out perfectly grilled dishes like black cod miso and wagyu beef. The open-kitchen design lets diners watch the culinary team in action, adding a bit of theatre to the experience. 

The Japanese-inspired cocktail menu and extensive sake selection provide the perfect accompaniment to the robust flavours coming off the grill.

Cazador

For something truly unique in Auckland's fine dining scene, Cazador is where it’s at. This family-owned restaurant has carved out its own niche, specialising in game and wild meats prepared with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.

What makes Cazador special is its commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability. The menu features carefully sourced game meats like venison, rabbit, and wild boar, prepared with respect for both the ingredient and the diner. 

The intimate, rustic setting with its vintage decor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that's refreshingly different from typical fine dining venues.

Amano

Bringing up the rear of our list is Amano, a restaurant that proves fine dining doesn't have to mean tiny portions and formal atmosphere. This stylish waterfront venue has perfected the art of elevated Italian cuisine using New Zealand ingredients.

‘A restaurant that proves fine dining doesn't have to mean tiny portions and formal atmosphere.’

Amano’s house-made pasta is iconic, especially the chittara with scampi, nduja & pangritata. Our personal favourite is their chargrilled kahawai, radish, sumac & chilli - which really showcases the kitchen's ability to let quality ingredients shine.

The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and local sourcing is evident in every dish, and the industrial-chic design creates a space that's both sophisticated and welcoming.

Hungry? Start Planning Your Trip

Auckland's fine dining scene continues to evolve, with each restaurant offering its own interpretation of gourmet eating. With a shared commitment to pushing boundaries and celebrating New Zealand's exceptional ingredients, the city has become an essential destination for foodies from around the world.

Ready to start planning your Auckland foodie adventure? Click here to check out our accommodation options at The Hotel Grand Chancellor and get access to these restaurants and more.

Last updated: November 2024 – Please check current opening hours and booking requirements with individual restaurants.