I’ve always had this theory that I could spend a year eating out everyday (in a different place for each meal even!) and it still wouldn’t be enough time to sample all Auckland has to offer. The choices for food places in central Auckland alone were a mission and a half to pick… it’s a tough job but someone has to do it, right?
So without further ado, here it is – my top 5 spots in Auckland central – not in any particular order.
Ortolana, Britomart
Conveniently located right in the middle of Britomart, I love that Ortolana is open for breakfast until after dinner so I can start my day with a coffee (best mocha I’ve ever had!) and end it with a cheeky drink and sweet treat (they serve sweets from Milse) when I’m commuting because it’s just a stone’s throw away from the bus and train station! Talk about good morning and good night.
Melba, Vulcan Lane
The last time I was in Melba, I sat at the table outside right in front of the menu and when a group of ladies walked passed and was deciding whether to eat there or not, I just couldn’t help but chime in and say that the food was really good. Thankfully they took my word for it and in they went. After their meals, one of them came up to me to say thanks and said it was one of the best meals they’ve ever had. The smashed avocado is the ultimate brunch feed!
Federal Delicatessen, Federal Street CBD
Fed Deli is an Auckland institution – the kind of place you travel far and wide to because the food is always good, the coffee is bottomless, and the little booths are so cute. When you walk in, it feels like you’re in a New York deli, where they serve your greasy faves like poutine and American hotdogs as well as a NY cheesecake and pumpkin pie. If you’re lucky enough to catch the breakfast menu, I highly recommend the pastrami with the crispy potatoes and the hot chocolate. Worth waking up early for!
Baduzzi, North Wharf
There’s a reason why Baduzzi’s meatballs are iconic. The first time I tried them, I immediately wanted to order another plate before even finishing them. They were that good! Baduzzi is located in Jellicoe St on the other end of Wynyard Crossing Bridge at the Viaduct and serves delicious Italian meals. Hearty and comforting. Just the way I like it!
Oyster & Chop, Viaduct
Oyster & Chop do the best, well, oysters and chops. No matter the time of year, they always have the freshest selection of oysters – the natural oysters with a lemon and champagne mingnonette is simply divine. Then there’s the ‘chop’ part. They do a great selection of meats grilled to the way you like it, and yummy sides to go with it (the fries with truffle parmesan mmm). Bonus points if it’s a sunny day and you get a table outside overlooking the water. It doesn’t get better than this.
