As much as we don’t like leaving our small hometown sanctuary, whenever we head into Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland all we can think about is the food. This city is bursting with flavour, from fine dining to everyday comfort, and we’ve made a habit of seeking out the very best bites. One of the hardest decisions I had to make when writing this blog was choosing which five to include, there are just too many amazing places! These are the top five that truly stand out as the best places to eat in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland, plus one bonus fish and chip shop that always hits the spot.
Ahi – New Zealand Fine Dining
Ahi, located in Commercial Bay, sets the standard for the best places to eat in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland. Chef Ben Bayly’s menu is a tribute to New Zealand’s regions, blending local produce with world-class technique. Dining here feels elegant but never stuffy with dishes that tell the story of Aotearoa’s land and people.
- Signature “Trust the Chef” menu with seasonal highlights
- Locally sourced meat, seafood, and produce from small-scale farmers
- Stylish yet relaxed dining room with harbour views
- Bookings essential — this is one of Auckland’s hottest tables
Grand Park Chinese Restaurant – Sunday Yum Cha
When it comes to Yum Cha, Grand Park at Alexandra Park Raceway is hands down one of the best places to eat in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland (actually in Aotearoa-New Zealand). Sundays here are legendary, with steaming baskets of dumplings, buzzing energy and the joy of shared plates with friends or family. Expect chaos on the weekend and their crazy system of calling you in. As soon as you get there register at the desk, they will give you a number.
- Huge variety of dumplings, buns, and fried favourites
- Authentic Yum Cha atmosphere — busy, lively, and full of flavour
- Affordable shared dining, perfect for groups and celebrations
- Best visited on Sundays for the full experience
Blossom Court – Authentic Malaysian in Panmure
I’ve been coming to this restaurant since it first opened, and every single time I order the chicken curry laksa. It’s absolutely next-level delicious and one of those dishes you never get tired of. Blossom Court has been serving authentic Malaysian flavours for over 15 years and it remains one of the best places to eat in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland if you crave spice and comfort. Tucked away in Panmure, this unassuming gem delivers dishes with consistency and heart.
Long-standing favourite for locals and regulars
- Famous chicken curry laksa, rich and deeply satisfying
- Generous portions at great value prices
- Relaxed, no-frills dining room with a loyal following
- Consistent quality that locals and regulars rave about
Hansan Vietnamese Restaurants – Everyday Comfort
I’ve been coming to Hansan since the early days when they only had the one branch in Panmure. And to be honest, I’ve ordered the same dish every single time — C13. I don’t even know its full name, just that the “C” stands for chicken, and it’s always perfect. Hansan is our go-to for Vietnamese comfort food and firmly deserves its place among the best places to eat in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland. With multiple branches across the city, it’s the ideal stop for a quick, affordable and consistently tasty meal.
- Pho, banh mi, vermicelli bowls, and stir-fries made fresh daily
- Quick service and reliable comfort food
- Multiple convenient locations across the city
- Personal favourite: we always order “C13” — no menu needed!
Nanam Eatery – Filipino Flavours in Takapuna
Our sister goes to Nanam regularly and was the one who first introduced us to their cuisine. It’s absolutely next-level — a true five-star flavour experience where every dish feels perfectly balanced. Nanam Eatery in Takapuna brings a splash of colour and boldness to the best places to eat in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland. Filipino food with a creative twist makes dining here fun, vibrant, and memorable. It’s a place to celebrate flavour in every sense.
- Playful twists on Filipino classics like longganisa and adobo
- Bright, modern presentation with Instagram-worthy dishes
- Warm, welcoming atmosphere with standout service
- Plans to expand with a new location in 2025
Bonus: Toby’s Seafood – Classic Kiwi Fish & Chips
For something casual, Toby’s Seafood in Massey deserves a spot as one of the best places to eat in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland when only fish and chips will do. It’s a local gem in West Auckland where the portions are big, the fish is fresh, and the chips are crisp. The team at Toby’s Seafood run one of the most organised and welcoming seafood shops we’ve ever been to, and they know exactly how to cook everything to perfection.
You can even choose your fish straight from the cabinet — it costs a little more but you’ll honestly thank me for it.
- Located in Massey, West Auckland
- Famous for big portions and great value
- Always fresh seafood, fried to perfection
- A must-visit for a true Kiwi takeaway experience
“Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.”
With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.