We are spoilt for choice in the greater Ponsonby area with some of the best bars, cafés and restaurants in New Zealand. Here is our latest guide to where the locals love to eat, drink and be merry. Please let us know if any of this information has changed. email info@ponsonbynews.co.nz
A place to gather and socialise with great drinks and food. Ingredients are sourced from the immense variety of provisions from the land and sea. Using their off-set smoker, they bring a new dimension to their dishes. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 12 noon-late.
This establishment has three very distinct bars under the same roof. Make one of these bars your personal venue for your next special night. Open Tuesday-Thursday, 4.30pm-1am, Friday-Sunday, 12 noon-1am.
Est. 1901 delivers a dose of historic charm to the suburb’s main strip. Assuming a prominent spot at 224 Ponsonby Road (right next to Prego) which was formerly tenanted by a butchery for over 70 years, this heritage site has now been transformed into a version of its original self. The result is an embellished time capsule where turn-of-the-century furniture and art create an historic atmosphere in which to enjoy cocktails and drinks. The drinks menu is a history lesson unto itself, with concoctions like the ‘Miss Irvine’ paying homage to the building’s very first owner and the ‘Captain Dedwood’ serving as a nod to Ponsonby’s onetime name (‘Dedwood’). Open Tuesday-Sunday, 3pm-late.
A boutique coffee roaster, serving only a handful of cafes. Each batch is hand picked by owner Jonny McKessar, roasted to order and delivered fresh. This busy coffee roaster is a great place to get that quick fix on the run or sit in at the communal table for a meeting with colleagues or a catch up with friends.
A stylish bar and eatery specialising in Indian fusion cuisine.
Ada is cosy restaurant located in the The Convent Hotel serving great Italian fare. Relax in the house bar with a drink before being taken to your table. Open for dinner, Tuesday-Saturday, 5pm-late, and Thursday-Friday,12 noon-3pm for lunch.
Passionate about coffee? This is a must-visit store to experience exceptional-tasting coffee. Enjoy a perfect cup of espresso or discover single origin coffees and blends as a filter brew. A selection of fresh-roasted beans is available for brewing at home. Biscotti and handcrafted European-style biscuits are baked on site.
Situated on it’s original corner site of Jervois Road and Wanganui Ave, the new Andiamo - ‘let’s go’ in Italian - is the quintessential local eatery and watering hole. Boasting a fresh and modern Italian-inspired menu, by day it serves classic brunch dishes and by evening, a trattoria menu by executive chef Gareth Stewart. Open Monday 5pm-late, Tuesday-Friday,12 noon-late, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-late.
This wine bar offers a selection of well-priced, international and local wines by the glass, and Estrella on tap. From the cocktail list, three drinks: an Aperol Spritz, a Negroni, or a Spritz Blanco. Choose from a selection of tapas, cheese boards and jamón Ibérico. Open seven days, 3pm-11pm.
A new restaurant to Freemans Bay.
More details to come.
This café is from the same team behind Mr Toms and is located inside Good Company, home also to Barkers and Groom Room. It offers toast and bagels, smoothies, coffee and an array of savoury and sweet cabinet food. Open Monday-Friday, 6.30am-4pm, Saturday-Sunday, 8am-4pm.
A modern Japanese restaurant where co-owner and executive chef, Yukio Ozeki delivers a menu that combines Peruvian-Japanese Nikkei flavours with more Tokyo-style dishes. They offer large and small plates designed to be shared or choose from the raw bar section that offers a variety of fresh fish creations. Hidden out the back, off Maidstone Lane, is Roji, Azabu’s sake and cocktail bar. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 5pm-late, Thursday-Friday, 12 noon-late.
A vintage furniture store and cafe
Friendly little local cafe with fresh tasty food - good hot coffee, nice looking range of cakes and slices.
Baked fresh daily, choose from a range of filled bagel. Try one of their quirky creations such as Lover: spicy of classic olive tapenade, hummus, tomato, avocado, red onion, fresh basil and cos lettuce. Enjoy with Kōkako's Fairtrade Organic Specialty coffee. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, Saturday, 8.30am-2pm, Sunday 9am-2pm.
Slider bakes using fresh quality local ingredients delivered to your door. Simply heat and eat in the comfort of your home and enjoy the convenience. Delivery hours, Wednesday-Saturday, 9am-5pm. Pickup, Saturday, 10.30am-1pm.
This new eatery is from the team behind It's Java, bringing a Balinese street food adventure to Ponsonby. More details to come.
Bambina is a casual, relaxed breakfast and lunch cafe where simple food using only the freshest ingredients has been served for more than 21 years. Licensed for beer and wine, Bambina is an all-time favourite that consistently delivers and is a fabulous place to meet friends for coffee, breakfast or lunch. Monday-Friday, 6.30am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday, 7am-4pm.
A busy, popular local wine bar with a great menu.
Bedford Soda & Liquor is a New York-inspired neighbourhood bar named after Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It serves handmade sodas, cocktails, floats, shakes, meatballs and sundaes. Open 12 noon until late, seven days, with an eclectic mix of DJs playing from 6pm Thursday-Saturday.
Enjoy Ben & Jerry’s the way it was originally intended! Dig into any of their euphoria inducing ice cream flavours. Hand scooped with custom-built cones and sundaes, it’s ice cream the way it was originally served by Ben and Jerry themselves. The perfect way to finish a meal is with a walk along the Ponsonby strip to this dessert destination.
Montreal-style bagels prepared daily. Every one is hand-rolled and baked in a wood-fired stone oven right before your eyes. Fresh bagels are available to take home or you can enjoy bagel sandwiches made to order. They offer breakfast spreads such as marmite or jam ‘with a lick of butter’. Try the ‘Yodi’ house pastrami, habanero mustard, grilled cheese topped with a pickle or the classic ‘King Salmon’ smoked salmon, cream cheese, red onion, capers, dill and lemon juice. Open seven days, 7am-3pm.
They use fresh, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients to make deliciously simple burgers all wrapped up in 100% compostable packaging for a better fast food experience.
A concise menu of four burgers, then add to make it better and three sides options.
Open seven days, 11am-10pm.
This vegetarian cafe is situated in the middle of the West Lynn shops, right next to Dear Reader. Their menu has nine different options. Try the fried upma, which are Indian spiced yellow split pea fritters with coriander and mint raita, tomato kasundi, watercress and a free-range poached egg! Yummy and spicy!
Bird On A Wire is a fresh and simple free-range rotisserie chicken store. They offer chicken sandwiches and quarter, half or whole free-range rotisserie roasted chickens with a choice of bastes from Jamaican jerk, Korean barbecue, salsa verde and truffle butter (the ‘Ponsy Coq’). Vegetarians are catered for with a grilled cheese sandwich, beer battered chips, roast vegetables and salads. Open seven days, 10.30am-10.30pm.
Relax, unwind and enjoy the ambience, wine and delicious food. The menu includes the all day breakfast, brunch and lunch. Try the home-made burger with chunky fries, garlic aioli, pickles and salad. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 8am-4pm.
With 19 years', experience, owner Pedro Komai offers a taste of fine Italian pizza and pasta. Bona Pizza is fully licensed and BYO with a happy hour from 4.30pm every day - $5 beer or glass of wine. You can eat in or take advantage of their delivery service and they cater for private functions. Open seven days.
A Japanese fusion eatery. From the Boss salad menu, try the Crispy Teriyaki Chicken Salad: Katsu chicken, broccoli, sprouts, edamame, radish, crispy shallot, roasted sesame dressing, and house teriyaki, come with Sticky Rice. Open Tuesday-Friday, 11.30am-9.15pm, Saturday 11.30am-12am, Sunday, 12 noon-9:15pm.
A fresh, vibrant eatery specialising in tasty and succulent free-range birds, along with extensive options for non-bird eaters! Dine in and enjoy something from the boutique drinks menu or choose to take home a delicious meal cooked from scratch.
Brewport is landing soon in Ponsonby... watch this space!
Brewery, retail store and tasting lounge with more than 200 beers, 18 of these on tap, Brothers is Auckland’s home for lovers of beer. It offers a range of beers brewed on site and an ever-changing selection of the world’s best craft beers from New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Europe and the US. Enjoy a tasting paddle of five beers and try the thin-crust pizza. Brothers hosts regular events such as live music, tap takeovers and special releases. Open seven days.
This eatery serves traditional no-fuss American southern style barbeque cuisine, made to be shared with friends and family. The menu features authentic meats served naked, or with slaw and pickle in a sandwich. Open Monday-Sunday, Midday-10pm.
A cafe with a bakery on site. Choose from their range of specialty German baked goods such as breads and rolls that are filled will natural goodness, and free of any preservatives. Or dine in for breakfast or lunch and enjoy the fabulous view the cafe offers. Open Monday-Saturday, 6.30am-6pm, Sunday, 7.30am-3pm.
Beautiful waterfront dog-friendly cafe, fully licensed, sun-soaked deck, and great food. Serving Underground coffee. Available for evening functions. Many locals will know the owner - it is Ginette Auld who previously owned Salta in Three Lamps.
Where they make simple, honest burgers, serve old-fashioned shakes and really cold beers and bubbles. Open Sunday-Thursday, 11.30am-9pm, Friday and Saturday, 11.30am-10pm.
Burger Wisconsin has been on Ponsonby Road for 29 years. The menu is regularly updated on their website and you can phone in your order for pick-up from 11.30am-late, seven days a week. They offer delivery on online orders within five kilometres.
The flagship store in Ponsonby was the first BurgerFuel to be open and for over a decade has been engineering the ultimate burger, built with the freshest ingredients. This includes gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Open Sunday-Thursday, 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-3am.
Try the Café 28 Big Breakfast: bacon, mushrooms, grilled tomato, hash brown, spicy sausage and eggs or the Israeli couscous and roasted vegetables. From the cabinet, choose from wraps, sandwiches, muffins and slices. Open Monday-Friday, 6am-5pm, Saturday-Sunday, 8am-4pm.
For 39 years, Cafe Cezanne has been world-famous in Ponsonby for its wall murals and yummy food and coffee at reasonable prices. Renowned for healthy salads, they also offer a vegetarian menu, gluten-free options and a children’s menu, and everything is available to takeaway. Fully licensed and BYO wine. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-late, Saturday-Sunday, 8am-late.
This café has a selection of pies, cold sandwiches and slices. It serves hot food such as toasted sandwiches and burgers, and offers an all day breakfast.
Offering authentic Vietnamese food with small plates and main plates to choose from. Try the bang bang prawns or the fragrant and herbaceous pho - Vietnam’s national beef noodle soup. Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-late.
Located within the roastery, Caffetteria is a neighbourhood hub where you can enjoy expertly prepared Allpress hot air-roasted coffee, their iconic Italian-style sandwiches and healthy smoothies. A selection of blends and single origin coffee is available for brewing fresh at home. The knowledgeable team is happy to help.
Cake & Co makes beautiful celebration cakes using fresh, quality ingredients. They offer a good selection of gluten, dairy and egg-free cakes, with low sugar where possible. Popular flavours are dark chocolate and raspberry, ginger and white chocolate, lemon curd and coconut, fig, ricotta and hazelnut, salty peanut caramel, hummingbird and lavender. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm, Saturday, 10am-4pm, Sunday, 11am-4pm.
Legendary Caluzzi Cabaret offers an unforgettable dining experience with entertainment by New Zealand’s most awarded drag artistes. Be dazzled by an interactive cabaret show with fabulous food, glittering costumes, cocktails and a whole lot of laughter. The perfect night out for a fun social occasion. Bookings are essential.
Serving Flight coffee, snacks and lamingtons. Try a one of their pies made from scratch in Cambridge. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, Saturday 9am-4pm.
A bohemian restaurant/bar with an interior straight out of Havana, which has one foot in the old world and one in the new. A philosophy of bringing cultures together through food and hospitality means a menu with so many good things it’s a given you’ll be visiting more than once. Feel like you make a difference when the profits of your 'Hummus for Syria' actually go to Syria via Unicef! Open Tuesday-Sunday 4pm-late, happy hour 4pm-7pm, brunch available Friday-Sunday from 10am.
Catroux offers a delicious seasonal brunch menu plus a cabinet full of tantalising salads and savouries.
For the sweet tooth there is plenty of baking (they also have an amazing online cake ordering system). They make fresh juices, green smoothies and serve Eighthirty coffee. They also offer a catering menu.
Open Monday-Friday, 6.45am-3.30pm, Saturday and Sunday, 7.30am-3.30pm. No reservations.
A Ponsonby institution, Chapel embodies the spirit of Auckland’s most iconic and sociable boulevard. It is the perfect place for drinks with friends after work, for dinner, a snack or a night out. Well worth the visit to sample delicious and very affordable fare such as the crispy Italian-style pizzas. Open Monday-Wednesday, 3pm-late and Thursday-Sunday, 12 noon-late.
Delicious homemade cabinet food and baking all made on site. Available for functions. Open Monday-Thursday, 7am-3.30pm and Friday 7am-3pm.
167 Great North Road
09 376 4585 View websitewww.facebook.com/pages/Charlie-Boys/193633627343860?fref=tsCherry and Whites is a favourite among locals for its amazing coffee and relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Offers a great range of baked goodies supplied daily by Scratch Bakers and the cabinet is stocked with delicious sandwiches and salads. It uses award-winning Altura coffee and the smoothies are popular and proudly made from real ingredients. Open weekdays 6.30am-3pm and weekends 8am-2pm.
It serves an all-day menu, with some interesting dishes on offer. Try the Cube French Toast: peanut butter stuffed brioche, maple grilled banana, cured orange, vanilla mascarpone, lemon curd, cookie crumbs, freeze dried raspberry and fruits. Open Monday-Friday, 7am–3:30pm, Saturday-Sunday, 8am–4pm.
A punk ramen bar with The Eagles on the radio, lip-smacking pork buns, fried chicken - and a damn fine selection of whisky. Expect handsome descriptions, like their peaty 10-year Ardberg, hailed as "a long and glorious mix of sea-salted caramel and beach bonfire smoke." They’ll even spike your choice of milkshake with a slug of bourbon. Chop Chop’s where tasty Asian street food gets hooked up with great whisky and killer cocktails. Open seven days, lunch and dinner, 12 noon-late.
It serves Thai food with a modern twist on popular dishes. Try the red curry or the pork belly bao. They also offer an extensive vegan and vegetarian menu. Open Wednesday-Monday, 11.30am-10pm, closed Tuesday.
Located at the bottom of College Hill, directly opposite New World, Cima Sushi is offering Donburi and sushi to takeaway. They offer several vegetarian sushi roll fillings including steamed green beans with sesame seeds, tempura pumpkin, seaweed salad, avocado and cucumber. Open Monday-Friday, 9.30am-3pm.
Clipper is a vibrant destination bar in the heart of Ponsonby combining local & exotic flavours in our first class cocktails. Operated by one of New Zealand's most experienced bartenders, their carefully crafted menu has something for everyone.
This is a lively, busy, noisy bistro and bar bustling with energy. The food is best described as rustic Italian with influences from the Mediterranean and service is slick and skilful. No reservations required, but you can sit at the bar and enjoy a great wine or cocktail while you wait. Check out the new communal dining room. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 5pm-late.
Cocoro means ‘the heart and soul’ in Japanese and the food and service they provide come with all their heart and soul. They serve Jun Mai pure rice sake and there is an emphasis on organic and biodynamic wines. They now offer a sushi and sashimi course. Reservations are taken for the degustation menu only, casual walk-ins are welcome. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 12 noon-2pm and 5.30pm-10pm.
Coffee House Organic is a place where design, art, music, food, organic coffee and impeccable Japanese hospitality blend for an enriching sensory experience in a chilled creative environment. Their organic coffees come from certified organic sources. All of their products are free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. The coffee beans are screened by hand and are roasted carefully to achieve the best possible coffee experience for their customers.
Open for breakfast and lunch, College Hill Cafe offers a wide variety of cabinet and made-to-order food. Their chicken laksa is really popular and they serve Burton coffee. Catering is also available. Open Monday-Friday, 6am-4pm.
The Conch Kitchen & Bar is part of the entertainment scene day and night, serving South American-inspired food, New Zealand organic wines, fresh sugar cane cocktails and local craft beers. Open Monday-Friday 4pm-late, Saturday and Sunday 8am-late.
Small, intimate and classy, unlike its big brother Grand Central. Specialising in gin and whiskey, with one of Auckland’s largest selection of Irish whiskeys (and from around the world) and also over 65 different gins. Open Wednesday-Thursday 3pm till late and Friday-Saturday till 4am with its legendary happy hour Wednesday-Friday 3-7pm.
It serves breakfast and lunch and offers cabinet food options, such as frittatas, salads, filled rolls and sandwiches and a range of slices and pastries. Open Tuesday-Friday, 6.30am- 3.30pm, Saturday, 7.30am-3pm.
80 Beaumont Street
027 645 5890 View websitewww.facebook.com/pg/craftcafenz/about/?ref=page_internalServing up a variety of wholesome hand-made goodies daily that you can have cooked to order. Choose from the cabinet or from their range of paleo dishes and treats such as paleo hazelnut chocolate cookies. Open seven days, Monday-Friday 7am-3pm, Saturday and Sunday, 8am-3pm.
Authentic French sweet crepes and savoury galettes made from the best ingredients New Zealand has to offer: real chocolate, homemade caramel, freshly squeezed lemon juice, free-farmed ham, free-range eggs, organic buckwheat, sugar and dairy-free options. Takeaway or dine in, check the website for opening hours.
Crumb is a relaxed and friendly corner store, doing the basics and doing them well. It's suited for a bite and a drink on the run or perfect for settling in and having a yarn. They're here to bring the community and locals together on a beautiful corner in Grey Lynn. Open Monday-Friday, 6.30am-3pm.
Get your 5+ a day at this juice bar. Enjoy a freshly squeezed juice or an organic smoothie. Try the Tropical Paradise: mango, coconut, kale, cashews, dates and orange, or the Dragon Berry: pitaya, strawberry, banana and cashews. Open Monday-Sunday, 7.30am-4.30pm.
4 Brown Street
It serves coffee, patisserie desserts, milkshakes, waffles, ice cream and more.
They offer gluten-free and vegan options. Open Monday- Thursday, 4pm-12am, Friday-Saturday, 2pm-12am, Sunday 2pm-10pm.
A bakery and a deli. For their baked goods, they use the best organic and spray free New Zealand ingredients where possible. From their bakery, baguette, ciabatta, sourdough and more. Try a hot sandwich of ciabatta filled with porchetta, salsa verde, mesclun, gherkin, cream cheese, sage, fennel and rosemary. Open Monday-Sunday, 7am-3pm.
A cute little café serving quality coffee, kombucha and tea. The perfect place to take a break whilst out shopping or just needing that coffee fix for the day. Open Monday-Friday, 7.30am-1.30pm, Saturday, 8am-2pm, Sunday, 9am-2pm.
It serves organic Fairtrade Velvet coffee. Choose from a selection of muffins, pastries, homemade sausage rolls and more. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 6.30am-4pm.
Owner Kevin Morris and his team blend fresh ingredients imported straight from Italy to create award-winning pizzas and fresh pasta. The pizzas' sourdough takes four days to prepare, is hand stretched and made to order. The dough is friendly to those with gluten intolerance. The buffalo cheese is airfreighted from Italy.
Daphnes is a Modern Greek Bar Taverna in the heart of Ponsonby Road. The dining room feels cosy with seating nooks throughout the restaurant. The energy is informal, fun and upbeat. The space is designed to feel like a family dinner party at home, serving up Greek classics, all with a Daphnes twist from head chef, Anna Weir & team. Expect the music to turn up later on in the night with Greek Music. Open Tuesday, 5pm-late, Wednesday-Saturday, 11.30am-late, Sunday, 11.30am-3pm.
Thai is one of the most popular cuisines in New Zealand. The newly opened De Grand has recently opened offering consistently healthy Thai cuisine and well-balanced diets. Its various techniques and components are a fusion of contributions made by the Thai cultures.
Deadshot is a neigbourhood bar for grown up drinking, moody blues and dark corners. It specialises in classic cocktails and champions the idea that cocktails should be for all occasions, not just special occasions. Because life is short, enjoy it while you can. The bar accommodates for small groups of six or less. Open seven days, 5pm-2am.
A popular and very busy local cafe with wheat-free, gluten-free and vegan offerings. The menu boasts a range of options for all. Try the acai bowl, the eggs benedict, or the smashed avocado on house-made Swedish rye, and waffles which are gluten free. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm and Saturday and Sunday, 8am-4pm, closed Tuesday.
They offer their specialty homemade sandwiches such as a New York Reuben or a blue vein stuffed portobello. Moreover, their gelato - with three dairy-free choices - our standout favourite is the Burnt chocolate coconut and charcoal - all their food is made fresh in-house.
This café offers a selection of breakfast and lunch dishes, along with cabinet food that includes sandwiches, cakes and muffins. They serve Toasted Espresso coffee. Open Monday-Friday, 6.30am-3.30pm, Saturday 8am-3pm.
A new restaurant located in the Victoria Park Village.
More details to come.
Head to Dida’s Wine Lounge to experience a comprehensive wine list and the ever changing, always-innovative tapas menu. The talented kitchen team works hard to pair traditional tapas with multiple by-the-glass options of local, imported and hard-to-find wines, craft beers and an impressive range of single malts. It’s a perfect spot in which to lose a few hours while broadening your hedonistic horizons. Open seven days, 12 noon-late.
People will make a special trip from near and far to get their morning coffee at Dizengoff. They serve a Jewish-inspired menu for breakfast and lunch and it is the place to go for a tasty meal with a difference. Open seven days, 6.30am-5pm.
They create delicious donuts that combine nostalgic Kiwiana and Pasifika flavours. Try the Fineapple Pie: Pacific Island pineapple custard filled, covered in a vanilla glaze and topped with a dollop of fresh cream and freeze-dried pineapple pieces. Or enjoy the Lamington: vanilla cream and raspberry jam filled, dunked in a chocolate glaze and rolled in coconut flakes. Open Wednesday-Friday, 7:30am-2pm, Saturday 8am-12pm.
Order online or through the Domino's Apps for the best deals. Choose from the range of pizzas, sides, drinks and desserts available for pick up or delivery. Track your order online with the Domino's Live Pizza Tracker.
This recently opened scoop shop, offers an extensive range of 24 flavours, including dairy free options, available every day of the week. It also serves ice cream sandwiches, ice cream tacos and pints to take home and enjoy. Open Sunday-Wednesday, 11am-9pm, Thursday-Saturday, 11am-11pm.
Eat Drink Laugh is a great place to do just that... from breakfast with Allpress coffee, to burgers and beers at lunch, to wine, cocktails and sharing plates in the evening, you can find it all at this eatery. Open Monday-Wednesday 6.30am-4pm, Thursday-Friday 6.30am-late, Saturday 8.30am-late, Sunday 8.30am-2.30pm.
This eatery serves Vietnamese street food and coffee. The menu offers a selection of Banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) vermicelli noodle dishes and rice bowls.
It serves scrumptiously superb eggs in the freshest brioche buns.Try the Sweet Scram: scrambled eggs, American cheese, sriracha mayo, baby spinach, caramelised onions in a brioche bun. Open Monday-Friday, 7.30am-3pm, Saturday-Sunday, 8.30am-3pm.
A little coffee roaster specialising in ethically sourced coffee, be it Fairtrade, organic or Rain Forest Alliance. You can pop in for a takeaway coffee at either location. The Ponsonby store is open Monday-Friday, 7.30am-4.30pm, Saturday and Sunday, 8.30am-4.30pm; The K’ Road store is open Monday-Friday, 7am-3.30pm.
Ponsonby Central, 4 Brown Street and 553 Karangahape Road
09 551 3236 View websitewww.eighthirty.comTry the real flavour of the Argentinian Pampas right here in the heart of Ponsonby. Offering Argentinian barbecue asado, homemade chorizo and empanadas. Licensed and open seven days from 11.30am-9.30pm, Friday-Saturday open till 10.30pm.
The Elbow Room is a favourite neighbourhood bar with a discerning wine list, a wide range of beers including Peroni, Sapporo and Lagunitas IPA on tap, as well as an extensive cocktail selection. The bar can be booked for private functions, either exclusively or for shared use. Open seven nights, Monday 3.30pm-1am and Tuesday-Sunday 3pm-1am.
Their focus is on handcrafted woodfired pizza. The menu combines old Italian classics with modern twists from Europe. Everything they do is homemade from their 24 hour slow cooked meats to their house-cured whiskey salmon. Open Tuesday-Wednesday, 12pm-11:30pm, Thursday-Sunday 12pm-1am.
Renowned for their Peking duck, which must be pre-ordered, Empress Garden is on the corner of Herne Bay Road and Jervois Road and has been serving delicious Chinese food for over 36 years. Open seven days, 12 noon-2.30pm and 5.30pm-10pm.
This Indian restaurant is located on the corner of Surrey Crescent. It has a large, well-presented dining room, and the staff is welcoming. Try something a little bit different, like the Empress Special Curry (chicken/lamb/beef) cooked with onions, fenugreek and Indian mild spices. Open seven days, lunch 11am-2.30pm, dinner 5pm-till late.
Epolito’s Pizzeria makes traditional New York-style pizza, from classics to something new! Open Tuesday-Saturday from 5pm.
Situated in a bright airy space at the top of Summer Street, Farina (meaning ‘flour’ in Italian) has fast become a popular eatery. Sergio Maglione and Mike Ross offer the legendary metre-long pizzas, perfect for sharing with a group of friends at one of their communal tables. Also on offer are fresh pasta dishes, a range of Neapolitan antipasti and more. Open seven days, 12 noon-10pm.
Farro Fresh is a unique fresh food market. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick coffee or looking for the ingredients for a recipe, they have it all under one roof. Farro stocks the very best local and international ingredients and prides itself on being a one-stop shop for fresh, wholesome and delicious food.
Serving Middle Eastern takeout with a unique twist. Fatima’s is all about flavour and fresh produce. Zingy lemon, fresh herbs and the warm aromatic spices from the East. Taste their harissa chicken, spiced lamb or fresh falafel wrapped up in a toasted pita with their handmade salads and sauces. They also offer potato koftas with sweet chilli aioli. Open seven days, 11.30am-10pm.
Take a trip back in time in this 90s-inspired bar. On Friday and Saturday nights they combine today’s hits with the best tunes from the 90s. On weeknights you can enjoy karaoke, or join for one of their 90s movie nights. The upstairs area is available for private functions with a separate bar. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 4pm-late.
Order fish and chips or make it a fish meal which includes chips, slaw and sauce. They offer some interesting sides such as coconut crumbed prawn, battered saveloy or try the battered haloumi. Open Sunday-Thursday, 12 noon-8.30pm, Friday and Saturday 12noon-9pm.
A swanky spot, Fitzroy Lounge Bar is eclectic, relaxed and has a little something for everyone. Inspired by Melbourne’s super-cool suburb Fitzroy, the bold and brilliant space features murals, bold prints and greenery. With inviting cosy furnishings, a sprawling bar, and a small but perfectly formed tapa style bites menu, you won’t want to leave. Available for function hire.
They have an interesting brunch menu and a variety of cabinet food to eat in or take out. A wide range of healthy heat-and-eat convenience meals such as lasagne, smoked fish pies and chicken cacciatore are available. Open seven days.
Food Truck Garage is the bustling home of The Food Truck, where chefs proudly serve up healthier versions of classic fast food including burgers, tacos and sodas. With a huge garage door that opens up to the sunshine, plenty of parking and Hallertau beer on tap, it’s the perfect place to grab a quick, healthy and affordable feed on the run. Open Monday, 11.30am-3pm, Tuesday-Wednesday, 11.30am-8pm, Thursday-Friday, 11.30am-late, Saturday, 11.30am-3pm. Dine in and takeaway.
It’s no surprise that Foxtrot Parlour is owned by Tara Brogan. Her attention to detail is always exceptional, and from the food to the coffee to the staff Foxtrot is pretty damn flawless. No longer a secret are its famous injectable doughnuts and, of course, the bulging cabinet of home-baked delights. It offers Supreme coffee, or try the now much copied green smoothie - kiwifruit, mint and spinach.
Freeman & Grey is a great sunny spot with a laid-back atmosphere, great sharing plates menu and a heap of fun to be had. It’s the perfect location for that special event, birthday, corporate event or Christmas. They’ll take the stress out of your next function, offering a wide range of food and beverage options, and can sort audio visual details for you. Open from 12 noon, Monday-Sunday.
You’ll find Freida Margolis on the corner of Richmond Road and Hakanoa Street tucked away in 118 years of Grey Lynn history. Ask for a Garage Project Craft Brew a Gin Sour or a Blue Cheese and Pear Pizza - and check their Facebook page for their live gigs schedule - from jazz to alt-country.
Fusion has a wonderful outdoor garden which features a sandpit, making it ideal for relaxing with Allpress coffee. Fully licensed and with a seasonal menu, its a great spot for enjoying breakfast or lunch with the family. Fusion is also available for functions. Open Monday-Friday 7am-4pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am-4pm.
Garnet Station Licensed Cafe serves cooked breakfasts, seven days a week and thin, crispy wood-fired pizzas on Wednesday-Sunday nights. They use Chiasso organic coffee, Green Valley organic milk, free-range eggs and only organic meat. Great vegetarian salads, GF options, sweet treats. Lots of cosy seating in the house or outside down the sunny lane. Free venue hire. Open Wednesday-Saturday 7am-10pm, Sunday 8am-8pm, Monday-Tuesday 7am-4pm.
This menu is their take on rustic Thai street food, inspired by their travels. And just like in Thailand - their food’s ready in a heartbeat - Go Go Daddy Thai Canteen. Little kitchen. Big delicious.
A cosy cafe on the Jervois strip, serving great coffee, smoothies, breakfast and lunch. Enjoy a slice or two of one of their delicious tarts, or a piece of cake. (vegans options too). Open Tuesday-Sunday, 6:30am-3:30pm.
The oldest and best-loved bar on the strip and still going strong after 19 years. Famous for its live music and late nights of dancing and good times. Huge range of craft beers (six on tap). Live music seven nights, great outdoor areas, two function spaces available. Open seven nights until 3 or 4am. Ponsonby’s longest-running happy hour, 4pm to 7pm.
The Grey Lynn RSC is a city fringe club with bar, bistro and restaurant. Located in Francis Street, Grey Lynn in the West Lynn Shopping Centre. The RSC has Jimmy the Cook creating delicious fresh seafood meals and more in their downstairs bistro. The bistro is open Wednesday-Saturday from 6pm. The RSC is open 365 days of the year, a unique gem in the middle of Grey Lynn. The upstairs function rooms are available for private events. Visitors and new members are most welcome. Quality live music on Fridays.
The Grey Lynn Tavern is a friendly neighbourhood place to have a drink, dance, sing or watch the game on the big screen. TAB facilities and pokie machines are also available and the bar can be hired for private functions. Open seven days, 11am-late.
Feeling peckish? Try one of their delicious brunch options from their all day menu with a perfectly brewed Ozone coffee. Or for lunch, order the pizza or the B.L.T; Westmere Butchers bacon, fresh lettuce and crisp vine ripened tomatoes on wholegrain. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-3pm.
At Gusto they keep things traditional; you will find the very best pizza, gnocchi, tortellini, fettuccine, ravioli and spaghetti. A private room is available for functions. Open Monday-Wednesday, 5.30pm-late, Thursday-Saturday, 12 noon-late. Sunday open from 5pm.
Coming soon, a new restaurant to Ponsonby.
More details to come.
110 Ponsonby Road
Gypsy Tea Room has been attracting people from far and wide for the past 16 years. There is a smaller private room for up to 30 people, a tasty bar snack menu, thoughtful wine list, beer including Peroni, Sapporo and Lagunitas IPA on tap and cocktails for the discerning. This is a great place to meet friends old and new. Open seven days Monday-Thursday 4pm-11.30pm, Friday-Saturday 3pm-2am and Sunday 3pm-11.30pm.
Made fresh every day, the sushi is laid out in immaculate formation in a very long cabinet. Sushi sells out quickly here - it’s a popular go to in Grey Lynn for lunch whether dining in or takeaway. Open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm.
Hansik is a Korean bar and restaurant located right next to Victoria Park Market and is great for after-work drinks. The outdoor deck is a ideal for sunny afternoon cocktails to go with its mouth-watering menu of authentic Korean barbecue.
The Harvest by Huckleberry location brings you a wide selection of organic seasonal produce, local grocery New Zealand brands, and supplements. They have a Naturopath on site seven days a week for short, in-store consults. You’ll also find a fully stocked bulk refill hub and ecostore liquid refill station. Open Monday-Friday, 8.30am-7pm, Saturday, 8.30am-5pm, Sunday, 9am-5pm.
Order online or phone for one of their delicious pizza’s and choose from a great selection of sides and desserts! There’s something for everyone, from meat toppings to vegetarian toppings and vegan options. From their Plant Powered menu, try the Vegan Mischief: plant-based chorizo, vegan nuggets, Cajun herbs, onions, garlic, chilli, tomatoes and capsicum. Open Sunday-Thursday, 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday, 11am-12pm.
The menu is built around the freshest seasonal produce to deliver to the healthiest possible meal. At Hemi Eatery you can expect a range of immaculate salads with your choice of protein, a collection of fresh juices and smoothies and an array of exciting cabinet food treats.
It’s serves delicious Thai cuisine using fresh ingredients sourced daily from the markets.
The prawn cakes (Tod Mun Goong) with plum sauce are a must try as is the flounder dish that is served deep fried with pieces stir-fried with peppercorns, shredded rhizome, garlic, fresh chilli and veggies. Open seven days, 11am-3pm, and dinner 5pm-10pm.
This café has a modern yet homely feel with it’s interior of oak tables, steel framework and ceramic handmade tableware. Try the halloumi bowl with spinach, broccolini, quinoa, cherry tomato, almond, pistou and a poached egg. Or something a little sweeter, try the ricotta pancake, poached rhubarb, pistachio and vanilla marscapone.
Get your bakery treats and fish and chips all in the one place. They have a variety of pastries, breads, croissants and sweet treats. Or put an order in for the catch of the day! Open Tuesday-Saturday, 8.30am-9.30pm, Sunday-Monday, 8.30am-9pm.
It has eighteen craft beer on tap, fine wines, botanical gin cocktails and an array of sharing plates. Open Monday-Wednesday 4pm-11:30pm, Thursday-Saturday, 12pm-1.30am, Sunday,12 noon-11:30pm.
Situated in the old Ponsonby Post Offiice building, Hotel Ponsonby has opened as a gastropub. More details to come.
Il Buco at the Fitzroy Lounge Bar. The pizza is a traditional Roman Pizza al Taglio (Pizza by the Slice). From the menu choose from vegan, vegetarian or meat. Get a slice for $6.50 or 10 slices for $60.
61 Mackelvie Street
View websitewww.facebook.com/pg/Il-Buco-249365041823439/about/?ref=page_internalA bakery and cafe specialising in traditional Italian fare and bakery items, including fresh croissants, pastries, homemade cakes and a wide selection of breads along with an interesting selection of deli products to take home. The coffee is pretty good too. Open seven days, 7am-4pm.
Specialising in Indonesian street food, it's Java offers an authentic “warung” experience offering the best of Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical trip to Bali or just looking to expand your gastronomic horizons, they will take you on an adventure through Indonesia’s weird and wonderful array of culinary flavours.
Relive the joys of a bygone era; enjoy traditionally cooked Indian cuisine in a rustic setting. Open lunch Tuesday-Friday, 12 noon-2.30pm; dinner seven nights, 5pm till late.
Janken is a sophisticated, trendy Japanese restaurant taking its name from the popular decision-making game ‘paper, scissors, rock', offering Japanese cuisine with a fusion twist. They offer a number of options for vegans/vegetarians. A unique space with its minimalist décor and exposed grey concrete. Open five days for lunch (Tuesday-Saturday), six days for dinner (Tuesday-Sunday).
Your local place for friends, colleagues and families to gather. They offer a full menu of small plates, charcuterie & cheese platters, mains & seasonal specials. Happy hour everyday 4-7pm. Fantastic hand made cocktails. Craft beers on tap. Try the wine flight of the week. Live music every Sunday afternoon from 4-7pm follow their Facebook or visit their website. Wine tasting, beer tasting & spirits classes held regularly. Venue available for special events, birthdays & functions.
At Jervois Steak House, you can discover the difference between grass-fed and grain-fed beef with head chef Rob Forsman. There is a great range of beef, lamb, chicken and fish and pre-ordering is essential for the restaurant’s signature slow -roasted prime rib. Bookings are essential. Open, lunch Wednesday-Friday, 12 noon-3pm. Dinner Monday-Sunday, 5.30pm.
This café offers a breakfast and lunch menu, coffee, tea and smoothies. From the breakfast menu, try the Hash Cake: pork ham, crumbled eggs, salsa verde and yuzu hollandaise. For lunch try the Corn Fritter: kasundi, crumbled haloumi, avocado and salsa.
Joy Bong Thai specialises in Royal Thai as well as rustic Issan Thai cuisine with a modern twist. The food is typically delicate and spicy, always fresh daily. With friendly staff and great food, this is a great place for parties, large and small. Tell Apple, the owner, we sent you. Open for lunch weekdays, 11.30am-2.30pm; dinner seven nights, 5.30pm-10.30pm.
A Herne Bay eatery and flagship store aka Jess’ Underground Kitchen serves up home cooking at its best - ready-to-heat meals, baking, seasonal salads and cabinet food, artisan deli goods and, of course, good coffee. They also offer bespoke catering for weddings, birthdays, corporate and office events.
A new restaurant opening soon in Ponsonby.
More details to come.
It serves tasty, healthy, vegan Thai food. From the small plates, try the Kumara Spring Rolls: sweet purple kumara, glass noodle springs rolls, with sweet carrot sauce. Or from the big plates, Panang Curry: sweet and salty sauce covering crunchy lotus root, crispy tofu and topped with crunchy almonds. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 5pm-9pm.
The team at La Mexicana are committed to serving up authentic delicious Mexican food with a focus on more traditional tacos and tortillas. They make their tortillas in house, using dough, made from the freshest New Zealand corn. Open Tuesday-Thursday, 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday, 11am-10pm, Sunday, 11am-9pm.
La Noisette is an innovative eating house, specialising in homemade patisseries and chocolates. They also do catering and customise desserts for all special occasions. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-5pm, Saturday, 8am-4pm.
518 Karangahape Road
09 303 0600 View websitewww.facebook.com/lanoisette.chocolats/?ref=page_internalOne of Auckland’s favourite rooftop bars with impressive views over Victoria Park and to the Sky Tower, La Zeppa offers delicious hot and cold tapas to enjoy with friends and a glass of wine. The perfect venue for social functions with a capacity of up to 500! Open seven days, 11.30am-late.
Choose from a selection of organic gelato, cocolato, sorbet and fresh juices. Their organic sweet treats come with a twist. Try the kawakawa sorbet (vegan) or espresso and chocolate gelato (vegetarian). Open Monday-Sunday, 11.30am-9pm.
At Le Vietnamese Kitchen you can experience the dedication to quality and the balance of intense flavours. Enjoy the fresh and aromatic flavours of Vietnamese cuisine finished with French flair. Mouth-watering, authentic dishes full of local, fresh vegetables, meat and fish will feature, along with a divine menu of Vietnamese-inspired cocktails.
This eatery is the creation of brother and sister duo Saione Greer and Natasha Finau. Passionate about their Tongan heritage and looking after you, the cafe is warm and hospitable. Serving up dishes with a Pacific twist, with coffee proudly supplied by Allpress.
This osteria and wine bar is inspired by the wine bars of Europe. It serves authentic tasty cuisine. Try the Woodfired Bavette Steak: salsa verde, smoked beef fat tomato and horseradish. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 5pm-late.
Small but perfectly formed, Lime is a quintessential Ponsonby favourite and the perfect spot for a refreshing craft beer, celebratory Champagne or a really well made cocktail. It’s an easy vibe featuring their trademark tunes from Sinatra to Springfield and an older, more sophisticated late night crowd letting their hair down. Open Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-2am.
Along the way these simple ideals have not changed, but what has changed is that
Little & Friday is not so little anymore. The business operates four bustling stores open 7 days a week across Auckland. These stores attract many other like-minded people who share the same passion and love for food as owner Kim Evans does.
Little Algiers is a little taste of the city of Algiers. Cooked fresh and fast, but best eaten slow. Try the Little Algiers big breakfast: scrambled eggs, grilled chicken, roast tomato, spicy North African merguez sausages, garlic potatoes and toast. Open Monday-Friday, 7:30am-4.30pm, Saturday and Sunday, 8:30am-2.30pm.
Little Bird goodies are made from the best raw organic ingredients they can find, and are completely vegetarian, gluten and dairy free. There are 45 seats, full table service and an extensive menu available to view online. And with a range of delicious breakfast items, lunch dishes from 11am, along with smoothies, teas, teeccino, matcha, raw cacao drinks, Kokako coffee, cakes, tarts, slices, cheesecakes and cookies from the cabinet all day. Open seven days, 7am-4pm. Kitchen closes at 3pm.
Little Bread & Butter Bakery specialises in organic breads. There are many different types of sourdough, European speciality loaves, bread rolls and pretzels. You can choose from a wide selection of handmade pastries, cakes and savouries, sandwiches and gourmet pies. At the large communal table you can toast your own slices of freshly baked bread and enjoy them with butter and jam, while you watch the hustle and bustle of the market area.
34 Westmoreland Street, & Ponsonby Central, Richmond Road
09 376 4007
Little Easy delivers unpretentious fun and classic ‘pubdom’ with great-tasting food and vibes to match. This is much more than the average pub fare. They run weekly food specials, happy hour every day from 4-7pm and DJs jamming till late. The classic Kiwi pub menu is infused with American traits - their burgers are served on fresh brioche buns, and they offer a range of chicken wings. Both not to be missed! Open Tuesday-Thursday, 4pm-late, Friday-Sunday, 12 noon-late.
Popular with the morning commuters who call in for their first coffee of the day, then its daytime punters sitting at the large picture window overlooking “the strip” through to the late afternoon locals who call in for a tipple in the garden courtyard or to chillax in front of the fire in the main room, the cafe has all of its bases ticked.
Lo-Kahn’ta means ‘Local Eating House’ in Turkish. They offer simple, tasty food of the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean. The menu has a selection of small plates, flat breads, main meals and desserts. Try the octopus - chargrilled and served with lemon on fava bean puree. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 4pm.
With a covered courtyard and north-facing sun deck, Longroom offers a unique, alfresco environment for drinking and dining any time of day. An inspiring new menu consists of small and large shared dishes, a grazing platter, individual dishes and a few sweet treats. Let’s not forget the great range of beverages available including a substantial cocktail offering. DJs play during the evening Thursday to Saturday, live music and DJs on Sundays. Open seven days during summer and open Tuesday-Sunday during winter.
Baby sister to Longroom Bar & Restaurant, Longshot has quickly become another favourite breakfast and coffee hotspot for Ponsonby visitors and locals. Serving an array of tasty and innovative breakfast and brunch dishes. There’s also a great range of sweets and savouries to enjoy on the spot or take away. Allpress is the coffee offering which can be brewed to satisfy all preferences, and there’s a special selection of teas, juices, smoothies, crazy shakes and Bloody Marys. The cafe space opens up to the sunny ‘atrium’ style, covered courtyard for enjoyment all year round. Open 6:30am-3pm weekdays and 7am-3pm weekends.
Mad Mex offers gourmet burritos and tacos that are made to order using only the freshest produce, flavourful salsas and authentic slow roasted and grilled meats. Open Monday, 11am-9.30pm, Tuesday-Thursday, 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday, 10.30am-3.30am, Sunday, 10.30am-9.30pm.
It serves modern Peruvian cuisine offering a succinct menu of small and large plates. They also have an interesting cocktail list comprised of some eclectic concoctions such as Milky Way: gin, rice milk, honey orgeat, toasted coconut vermouth and lemon fig leaf olive oil. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 5pm-late.
Coming soon. Food store and caterer specialising in gourmet heat & eat meals, and delicatessen style food made only from locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
The team at Garnet Station has opened Majenta, a bar which opened recently. Open Wednesday to Friday from 2pm and all day in the weekends. Hungry? The serve their woodfired pizzas and meals. In addition they also have tapas to go with ice cold beer or cider.
They offer a vast array of sushi and sashimi options for dine in or takeaway. Try the Maki combo a selection of salmon, chicken or vegetable. Or try something a little different like the pork dumpling combo. Open Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm, Saturday-Sunday, 8am-5pm.
A newly opened eatery specialising in Malaysian and Asian cuisine. We recommend their seasonal vege laksa - buddhist style onion vege curry base in noodle soup with cauliflower, tofu, egg, French beans, potatoes, bean sprout, carrot and tomatoes.
Grey Lynn’s gastro pub has undergone an extensive renovation, re-emerging as the Malt Public House. The new bar and dining areas provide a relaxed and comfortable environment to catch up for drinks, lunch or dinner. The sunny courtyard is a hidden oasis, perfect for a summer afternoon! Open Monday-Friday, 11am-late, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-late.
This bakery-cafe-hangout is a Grey Lynn favourite. Whether your tummy growls for a sandwich, roll, pie, slice or muffin you’ll be able to get it here. Mamata is renowned for their made to order bagels, Ponsonby News’s favourite is the avocado and tomato toasted sesame seed bagel! Open Monday-Saturday, 7am-5.30pm.
The old fire station is home to Mary’s cafe. A tastefully refurbished interior that is light- filled and spacious. They have familiar breakfast favourites such as red flannel hash with gourmet red potatoes sautéed with red onions, tomato and chorizo and topped with fried or poached eggs. Or you may be in the mood for a healthy protein power lunch. Try the kale salad! Open Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, Saturday-Sunday, 8am-4pm.
The atmosphere at Matsu is perfect for pleasure or business and for a great price, you can enjoy the best sushi with the highest quality of service, presentation and freshness. Dedicated to providing an exceptional dining experience.
A modern southeast Asian fusion restaurant designed with unique roughened floors, crudely painted walls with simple, yet elegant, nostalgic prints of life in Vietnam covering the walls. They have seating for as many as 80 guests in the bar, 60 in the restaurant and 30 in the Mekong function room. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12 noon-late.
A Californian-style Mexican eatery, that offers burritos, nachos, quesadillas, tacos and more. Enjoy feasting on tasty yet nutritious food in a fun Mexican-style atmosphere. Open Sunday-Thursday, 10am-11pm, Friday-Saturday, till 3am.
A lively eatery on the strip offering great Mexican dishes. Try one of their quesadillas or soft shell tacos and look out for their weekly specials. They take bookings for groups over 10.
Open Monday-Sunday, 12 noon-late.
If you find yourself in Ponsonby with a craving for a cold drink and some hot dumplings, then Midnight Gardener is just the place for you. A casual and comfortable backyard vibe, the ideal setting for those looking to while away an evening with friends.
Serving simple, tasty Turkish dishes. Try one of the mezze platters with accompanying dips and flatbread. Or a classic durum (wrap): beef, chicken, halloumi, falafel, lamb or fish with sumac red onion, cacik, hummus, tomato and greens. Open Monday-Sunday, 10am-10pm.
A new gourmet burger joint to Grey Lynn.
More details to come.
A new eatery to Ponsonby.
More details to come.
Shop 12, Ponsonby Central Market,
545 Karangahape Road
Morepork BBQ is introducing damn good barbeque to New Zealand. Chef/owner Clint Davies combines homemade rubs and sauces with hand-picked premium cuts of meat and smokes them low ‘n’ slow in a custom built smoker, co-designed and co-built by the chef himself. Options to dine in at the fully licensed restaurant or takeaway a full meal for the family to enjoy. Open Tuesday-Sunday 11.30am until sold out!
A new age Indian restaurant inspired by traditions, street food and the classics. Mr Spicer represents "changing things up", through food, space and energy, that so defines modern day India with a retro flair. Open, Tuesday-Wednesday, 11.30am-2pm and 4.30pm-9pm, Thursday-Friday, 11.30am-2pm and 4.30pm-10.30pm, Saturday, 4.30pm-10.30pm, Sunday, 4.30pm-9pm.
At Murder Burger, they serve an uncompromisingly fresh meat burger that’s worth it. A place you would come to enjoy a range of exciting burgers minus the guilt.
Mutiara is a specialist in authentic Malaysian cuisine and authenticity is the top priority for chef and owner Roy Lim. Malaysian cuisine is diverse in its influences and styles and this is reflected in the menu which offers signature dishes such as Rendang Kampung (thick curry), Ikan Bakar (Malaysian style grilled fish) and Mamak Noodles. Open for lunch Monday-Friday, 12 noon-2.30pm and dinner seven nights, 6pm-10.30pm.
This eatery serves Korean style fried chicken. What makes the chicken deliciously tasty and crispy is the lighter batter, sticky marinade and double frying process. Open seven days 11am-9pm.
Ponsonby Central, 136-146 Ponsonby Road
A sweet little spot in Grey Lynn - Neighbour.akl - a cool vibe, nice people and the aesthetic. 100% our kind of caffeine heaven.
2a Hakanoa Street
This is New Zealand’s first pure kombucha taproom. They make all their kombucha with the same four ingredients: filtered water, organic tea leaves, organic cane sugar and our organic scoby, or kombucha culture. The taproom offers “core four” kombucha on tap: Indian Assam tea kombucha, Indian Darjeeling tea kombucha, Sri Lankan black tea kombucha and Gunpowder green tea kombucha (from China). The fifth tap is a guest brew - this is experimental and changes every week. Open seven days, 10am-6pm.
Robata-yaki means having dinner and drinks in a cosy and social atmosphere watching the kitchen. Because most of the dishes are grilled and deep fried and snack sized, you can order many different kinds of food to share. Also available is a wide selection of Japanese sake, wine and beer; BYO wine. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 6pm-11pm.
A Korean eatery serving flavourful authentic dishes using local and seasonal ingredients, and also some with a twist such as Tofu Steak; house-made tofu ‘steak’, served with mixed salad, pickled cucumber and pickled chocolate tomato. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12pm-3pm and 5pm-10pm.
Odettes Eatery offers a thoughtful menu that changes a little throughout the day to suit the appetite. It is the brainchild of Clare and Joost van den Berg who ran Zus & Zo, before selling up to concentrate on their city venture. Fittingly, the menu is in total sync with this exhibition of good taste and high fashion. Chef Josh Kucharick’s food meets all the demands of the modern diner and there is something for everyone, as long as they are prepared to be a little adventurous. Open seven days.
Fantastic menu, cabinet food and Allpress coffee along with a chilled out atmosphere make ohSO the perfect place for a casual business meeting or a catch up with friends. Functions and catering also available. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-3pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am-3pm.
Incorporating a bit of New Zealand and South Africa, this restaurant serves modern fusion dishes designed to be shared. Honest, rustic, generous, bold and moreish. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 11.30am-10pm.
A new restaurant to Ponsonby.
More details to come
Ponsonby Central, 136-146 Ponsonby Road
021 0233 7695 View websitewww.facebook.com/pg/OlasArepas/about/?ref=page_internalOne 2 One cafe has just celebrated its 25th year, it uses coffee supplied by the local boutique roaster Craig Miller and has free wifi. One 2 One is fully licensed and offers a selection of organic wine with craft beers. Family friendly, with a charming Parisian style and a covered courtyard complete with a children’s sandpit and blackboard.
It’s serves coffee from Eight Thirty Coffee Roasters, kai and provides the perfect place to enjoy catching up with friends and a space to bring community together. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-2.30pm, Saturday, 8am-2pm, Sunday, 8.30am-2pm.
553 Karangahape Road
021 277 3677 View websitewww.facebook.com/pg/weareopencoffee/about/?ref=page_internalOrphan’s Kitchen is all about unadulterated food and naughty wines. Offering a laid -back atmosphere with honest food. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 5pm-late and brunch Wednesday-Sunday.
Ozone Coffee Roasters are coffee and hospitality experts with an all day Eatery and Roastery in the heart of Grey Lynn, serving brekkie, lunch and dinner to the neighbourhood. From your morning coffee and eggs benny all the way through to your final glass of wine with dessert – they’ve got you covered.
Owner Tito is passionate about the food they serve which is regional Italian style cuisine. Classic antipasti, pasta and mains, all exceptionally flavoured, using fresh ingredients plus popular Italian desserts and thin crust pizza. Dine in - delivery - take out - catering. Lunch, Monday-Friday, 12 noon-3pm and dinner seven days from 5pm.
This eatery serves soft stuffed pretzels, pretzel based burgers, decadent sides and sodas. All Pretzels & buns are made in house daily. Open Tuesday-Friday, 5pm-late, Saturday 12 noon-late.
A French-style bistro owned by Nick Honeyman, Paris Butter takes its name from 'cafe de Paris', the complex butter sauce famous for making a steak come alive. Monday closed, Tuesday-Thursday 6pm-late, Friday 12 noon-late, Saturday 9am-3pm, 6pm-late and Sunday 9am-3pm.
Enjoy great food, drinks and outdoor games right in Victoria Park. Meet a friend for a platter and Prosecco in the garden after work, sip craft beer with a prime burger for lunch, or challenge your workmates or others to a team building game of petanque or frisbee golf – all right in the heart of the CBD! Ask about their venue hire.
A new restaurant to Grey Lynn.
More details to come.
Not just fabulous flavoured chocolates and bonbons, Philippe’s also makes French cakes and tarts, French pastries and breads, sandwiches and quiches. Open Monday 8am-4pm, Tuesday-Thursday, 7.30am-5pm, Friday-Saturday, 7.30am-5.30pm, Sunday 7.30am-4pm.
It’s a bar and eatery with a real local focus. There is an outdoor deck perfect for all Auckland weather and live music every Sunday. Grab a beer on tap or ask for one of their delicious house cocktails made with fresh seasonal ingredients. If you're sharing, try the seaweed chips with dashi mayo and the green tahini hummus. If you aren't, go the North African spiced lamb chops! If you're planning a party, make sure to ask about the function space - it was once the old ASB bank.
Poke is a popular Hawaiian dish where you can choose from raw fish, cooked meats, veggies and salad and are seasoned with sauces, oils, spices and seeds. This eatery offers a variety of poke bowls as well as poke burritos and salads, and you can select a dish from the menu or build your own. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm, Saturday 11am-4pm.
206 Victoria Street West
09 217 3672 View websitewww.facebook.com/pg/pokehousenz/about/?ref=page_internalA fully licensed bar with a great selection of beer and wine at reasonable prices. Located at the centre of the Ponsonby International Foodcourt. You can also quench your thirst with freshly squeezed fruit or vegetable juice and soft drinks. Open seven days 11am-10pm.
Walk right in and taste the mouth-watering recipes from Italy, Japan, Malaysia, China, Thailand, India, Indonesia, Vietnam and more. Situated right in the heart of Ponsonby with a fully licensed bar, this is the perfect place for that leisurely lunch, dinner or quick break from business. Open daily 11am-10pm.
This is the longest-running pool hall in Auckland, with 15 pool tables and a private snooker lounge featuring Rolling Stones memorabilia. There are more than 40 bottled beers to enjoy while you play and they’re open every day except Christmas Day. Available to hire for social functions, watch the video on Facebook. Open seven days, 1pm-1am.
The award-winning Ponsonby Road Bistro offers a well-priced menu and interesting wine list in a stylish and relaxed environment. Sarah Conway’s menu provides a global feast - and the chargrilled scotch with hand-cut chips has become a firm favourite. The friendly staff and cosy dining room offer a warm welcome. An afternoon menu offering lighter dishes, the signature Southern Clams, and the steak and chips – is available daily from 4pm until the full menu kicks off again at 5.30pm. Open for lunch on Fridays from 12 noon, Monday-Saturday from 4pm.
You can enjoy an expertly made Kokako espresso, filter batch brew or nitro cold brew coffee or choose from a range of coffee blends and single origin coffees to brew at home. It has an extensive cabinet and seasonal à la carte menu with a focus on local produce and extensive dairy-free, gluten-free and vegetarian options. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-3.30pm. Weekends, 7.30am-4pm.
Be transported to Japan, China, Thailand, Vietnam and Korea at this Asian fusion eatery new to the Ponsonby strip. Try the Seafood Tom Yum Noodle: Thai spicy hot & sour soup with kung fu egg noodle, king prawns, mushrooms, coriander, spring onions and mixed Thai herbs. Finish with their signature dessert, Deep Fried Bao Ice Cream: deep fried bao with green matcha ice cream, red beans and peanuts. Open seven days 12 noon-10pm.
This iconic restaurant was established more than 31 years ago, Prego is the ultimate in Italian alfresco dining with the intimacy of an enclosed courtyard, late suppers at the bar in front of a wood fire or bistro-style dining with the buzz of a busy restaurant. Takeaway available, open seven days, 12 noon-late.
Tucked away from the bustle of Ponsonby on the corner of Middle and Cascade Streets is the award-winning Queenies, offering Supreme coffee, New Zealand beers and wines, a unique sweet selection and a tantalising menu. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday, 8am-4pm.
It serves traditional Japanese Ramen and dishes. The menu offers a vast array of ramen to choose from, including entrees and side dishes. Try the Spicy Black Tan-Tan Ramen: sour and spicy black sesame base. Vegetable stir-fry, pork mince, bok choy, shredded leek. Freshly ground sesame. Jade Ramen: wok fried spicy pork mince, topped with egg, minced garlic chives, coriander. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12pm-9:30pm.
This restaurant specialises in donburi, which is a large bowl of rice topped with fresh vegetables, meat or fish. The meals are quick, cheap, unpretentious, nutritious and well balanced. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 12 noon-3pm and 5pm-9pm.
A luxurious bohemian-style parlour with hints of opium den chic, a double-sided fireplace, visual delights from lanterns to antique furniture and has one of the best decks in Ponsonby. The delicious food menu includes a selection of Asian fusion sharing plates, platters and bar snacks. An extensive New Zealand and international wine list, classic and original cocktails with seasonal recipes, and craft beers. Open from early afternoon until late every night of the week. Brunch service is available Friday-Sunday.
One of 10 award-winning cafes owned by Hipgroup, Richmond Rd Cafe is a buzzing urban cafe. With a menu refined by Hipgroup’s belief in provenance, sustainability, seasonality and locally sourced product, many of the ingredients are grown on their farm in Kumeu. There’s an all-day menu, sweet selection, freshly squeezed juices and frappes plus a champagne, wine and beer menu. Open seven days, 7am-4pm.
A new cafe to Ponsonby.
More details to come.
Providing healthy and fresh takeout food for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between, using the best of local, free-farmed and free-range ingredients. Weeknight TV dinners and freezer meals, a variety of gourmet sandwiches and wraps, fresh produce -laden salads all year round, decadent home baked slices, a fantastic selection of raw treats, gluten free, dairy free - they have everything! Their second cafe is housed in the Giltrap Building on Great North Road. Delivery is available Monday- Friday until 3pm for out-catering and you can order online. Open Monday-Thursday, 7am-7pm, Friday-Saturday, 7am-4pm and Sunday, 8am-4pm.
172 Richmond Road,
Giltrap Building, 119 Great North Road
This is a fully plant-based super store. Their deli features artisan plant based meats and cheeses from New Zealand producers and some outstanding overseas products. They stock gourmet treats, marinated tofu, vegan seafood, mince, organic produce, health supplements and more. Open Monday-Tuesday, 9am-6pm, Wednesday-Friday, 9am-7pm, Saturday and Sunday, 9am-5pm.
It serves New Orleans style Cajun dusted fried chicken. Enjoy tender and juicy chicken paired with smoky mayonnaise, seasoned fries and garlic bread. Open Sunday-Thursday, 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday, 11am-2am.
Roji (translated - Alleyway) is tucked out the back of Azabu, with access via the restaurant or Maidstone Street. They offer sake and cocktails to be enjoyed in a vibrant space along with great tunes. Open Monday-Sunday, 5pm-late.
This Italian restaurant offers authentic Rome-inspired cuisine. Try the Caprese Salad or Scallop Pappardelle Pasta, and from their brunch menu something a little nostalgic, spaghetti (proper spaghetti) and cheese on toast. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 4pm and for all day brunch, Friday-Sunday, from 8am.
Roost is run by Ruben Maurice with his two business partners, Wayne Schuler and Shaun Marlo. They are offering Atomic coffee and bagels in a new industrial space in the Vinegar Lane development. Don’t miss their delicious brioche.
An all-day eatery offering an array of delicious dishes. Try Nonna’s chicken schnitzel sandwich, or choose from the many salad options. They have an impressive cabinet selection of homemade lamingtons, scones, savoury scrolls, cakes and more. Open Monday-Wednesday, 6.30am-4pm, Thursday-Friday, 6.30am-9pm, Saturday, 8am-9pm, Sunday, 8am-4pm.
34 Sale Street
They offer a selection of cabinet food including sandwiches, savouries and cakes. Or choose from their breakfast and lunch menu. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-3:30pm.
Saan’s Head Chef Lek Trirattanavatin says, “Our menu is mainly focused around the Lanna and Isaan regions of Thailand. Many of the dishes have been passed down through my family. I am very proud to present them to you here in the heart of Ponsonby. Than Hai Aroi Na Krab - enjoy your meal.” Seven nights from 5pm-late, Wednesday-Friday lunch from 12 noon.
Saffron specialises in South Indian cuisine. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 11am and 3pm it serves an all-vegetarian buffet brunch. Catering, takeaway and delivery in Ponsonby is also available. Open seven days, Monday-Sunday. Lunch 11am-3pm. Dinner 6pm-10.30pm.
Salta Espresso delivers quality personal service, great coffee and delicious fresh food made with pride on the premises every day. A full breakfast and lunch menu is available as well as delicious cakes, pastries and sandwiches. Open Monday-Friday, 6.30am-4.30pm, Saturday and Sunday, 7am-4.30pm.
Satya is situated near the Ponsonby, Newton and K’ Road intersection. The south Indian recipes are age old and based on Ayurvedic principles; Satya's motive is good food. With its relaxed ambience and friendly staff, it is a great place for a vast range of Indian meals at a good price. Takeaway, delivery, catering and banquets for large groups are all available. Open for lunch Monday-Saturday, 11.30am-2.30pm and dinner Monday-Sunday, 5.30pm-10pm.
This little sandwich place also offers pie, gorgeous salads and meals... try their teriyaki chicken Asian slaw salad; creamy bacon and mushroom pasta bake and the best of all - a fresh pea pesto pasta with feta and fresh herbs.
Enjoy breakfast or lunch at this cafe with an ocean view to boot. The interior is modern with seating for 58, and is fully licensed. The menu has a range of breakfast classics such as toast and spreads, eggs on toast or Bharta Eggs: poached eggs with spiced aubergine puree, whipped yoghurt, chilli butter with sourdough toast. Open seven days, 7am-3.30pm.
184 Garnet Road
For more than 27 years, Shahi cafe has been serving Ponsonby locals timeless, sumptuous north Indian cuisine with a difference. There is an extensive variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes; some of the most popular are Shahi cigar, chicken tikka, rogan josh and much more. A private function room is available, dine in, catering, delivery and takeaway. Open 5pm-late, everyday.
Sidart is the award-winning restaurant of chef Sid Sahrawat with progressive Indian cuisine. It is a contemporary yet formal restaurant with innovative food and attentive, friendly service headed by Sophie Beaton. The gorgeous city views and intimate dining room make Sidart a place for special occasions. Highly recommended by the Ponsonby News team. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 6pm, Friday lunch 12 noon-2.30pm.
Offering free wifi and their famous specialty Sierra coffee as well as delicious homemade cakes and slices - everything is available to take away. Open seven days, 6.30am-4.30pm.
Their perfectly seasoned meat is due to the secret Memphis dry rub rib recipe. Pairing well with dipping sauce on the side and other condiments such as pickled Kamo Kamo or pickled jalapenos. Other dishes on the menu include the truffle mac ‘n’ cheese, Asian slaw, and the smoked truffle cauliflower and cheese. Open Thursday-Sunday, 12 noon-9pm, Friday-Saturday, 12 noon-10pm.
108 Surrey Crescent
At Soul Thai, their goal is to cook restaurant quality, authentic Thai cuisine using the finest ingredients and deliver your order to your door fresh and fast. Order by phone or online. Open seven days, 5pm-10pm.
This café is located at the back of The Shelter. Offering the Gusto blend Fairtrade coffee, an all-day menu which includes house-baked Source granola, delicious savoury bagels and paninis. There is also a good selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Open Monday-Friday, 7.30pm-3pm, Saturday and Sunday, 8am-3.30pm.
A Ponsonby institution, SPQR has been a prominent fixture along the Ponsonby strip for over 21 years. The lively atmosphere and friendly service gives SPQR an authentic, first-rate reputation. The pizza is great for an anytime snack and veal marsala is an old favourite. Eat in or take-away. Open seven days, 12 noon-late.
St Pierre’s Sushi is all about fresh, quality sushi at an affordable price. It now offers brown rice for all sushi flavours. Readymade to go for busy people, or made fresh on the spot any time for tailor-made sushi requirements. Party platters of sushi are a specialty.
Next time you are walking in Victoria Park call into this great little cafe. Standing room espresso is the place for great coffee and homemade food, slices and cakes. They offer organic coffee and delicious salads made to order.
A casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches and salads, with health-conscious options. Get your breakfast, lunch or dinner sandwiches.
Sushi Edge is a takeaway or eat-in establishment serving a wide range of delicious sushi and sashimi options. Their servings are generous, everything is tasty and well-seasoned and freshly made. Their sashimi bento box, vegetarian tempura don and their lunch sushi boxes are all worth trying and are good value for money.
Situated next to Dorothy Butler’s Children’s Book Shop, Sushi Wasabi specialises in traditional sushi and nigiri. Their sushi is made with brown rice. This is a daytime restaurant and you can dine in or takeaway. They have a loyalty card too. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
Get lunch on the go or dine in at this sushi bar. As well as sushi, the menu includes donburi, noodles, steam dumplings and more. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-3:30pm.
Sweat Shop Brew Kitchen in Freemans Bay is known for its succulent, smoky barbecue meats and their exclusive beer range, which is hand-crafted in their very own brewery. Americana-spice rubbed meats with native New Zealand woodchips offer an alarmingly delicious experience. It’s a great spot for a few brews as well, with regular DJs and live gigs taking place every weekend. Open seven days, 11.30am-late.
This café has a classic yet modern feel to it. Enjoy barista-made coffee from 4.30am a choose from a wonderful selection of French patisserie style food from 7.30am. For the later part of the day, wind down with a glass of wine or beer.
Taboo is the downstairs little sister of The Oakroom. It’s a late-night cocktail bar and describes itself as an “Inner City Swillhouse”. Cocktails average between $16-$20 with happy hour menu cocktails available for $10 from 4pm-7pm daily. Open Wednesday-Saturday, 4pm-late.
Taisho Yakitori Bar serves both traditional and modern Japanese food. There are over 60 dishes to choose from, including sushi and sashimi, 15 different kinds of sake, as well as Japanese and local beer and wine. Owner, Taka Tsuji, is from Hiroshima where his parents have run a restaurant for more than 36 years so he has grown up with traditional Japanese food and hospitality. Eat in or takeaway. Open Tuesday-Thursday, 6pm-10.30pm, Friday-Sunday, 5pm-11pm, Sunday, 9.30pm.
This vegan bakery serves delicious savoury pies, pastries, danishes, croissants, sandwiches and more. Get your baked goods on the run, or dine in and enjoy with a coffee made with plant milks. Open Monday-Saturday, 7.30am-3.30pm, Sunday, 8am-3.30pm
555 Great North Road
09 376 5535 View websitewww.facebook.com/pg/tartgreylynn/about/?ref=page_internalPioneers of the PieFee! This is coffee served in a delicious sweet chocolate pie crust. As the cafe instructs, choose your drink, choose your cup (pie crust), drink the coffee, enjoy the biscuit! This unique offering, among their daily selection of homemade pies, sandwiches, cakes and slices. Open Monday-Friday, 6am-5pm, Saturday, 8am-3pm.
349 Karangahape Road
09 377 2748 View websitewww.facebook.com/TastefulBakehouseandCafe/?ref=page_internalA new cafe to Ponsonby.
More details to come.
Thai Classic Restaurant has been running strong since 1994, specialising in authentic Thai cuisine. Flaming chicken and flaming beef are recommended dishes. Enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, a relaxed and friendly ambience and wonderful views of the Waitakeres. Takeaways and delivery are available to Ponsonby locals. Open seven nights, 5.30pm-10.30pm.
Since 1993 Thai House Restaurant has been serving the finest quality Thai cuisine and taking pride in serving only quality and authentic ingredients, freshly prepared along with warm and personal service. Thai House has an intimate ambience, warmly decorated with traditional Thai décor. Fully licensed, BYO wine and takeaway. Open seven nights, 5.30pm-10pm.
This is a small, warm and welcoming restaurant with simple decor and deliciously cooked Thai food from an excellent chef. Its fans say it’s the excellent quality of the dishes that gives this establishment its point of difference. Open for dinner seven nights, 5pm till late.
It serves classic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai: stir fried rice noodles with bean sprouts, tamarind sauce and crushed peanut. Try one of their special dishes, Goong Chae Nam Pla: raw black tiger prawns with chilli, lime and fish sauce. Open seven days, 11am-10pm.
The Birdcage Tavern has been returned to her former glory with stained glass windows and original brick walls blended with more modern elements to give it a chic, metropolitan vibe. The north-facing courtyard bar is one of the biggest and sunniest in Auckland, a perfect inner city destination to gather with friends. The food is rustic in style. Open Sunday for lunch till 5pm. Closed Monday. Tuesday-Saturday, 12 noon-late.
Chef Che Barrington takes Auckland Asian dining to new levels, serving you the sensational flavours of regional China in the lush surrounds of a Pacific island paradise. In-house dumpling chefs fold and flip before your very eyes, and New Zealand’s premiere in-house rum bar, The Rum Jungle, shakes up kooky Tiki cocktails and understated classics. Open seven days, lunch and dinner, 12 noon-late.
Discover Ponsonby's lolly shop of beers. There's something to suit everyone with 24 taps of craft beer.
The Butcher’s Son is an exciting casual dining eatery offering 100% plant-based comfort food for conscious eaters and gastronomes alike.
As per its gastropub theme, The Cav offers bistro-quality food in a casual friendly environment and is a great place to meet for a couple of relaxing beers or a glass of wine or two. They offer an extensive menu featuring succulent, modern cuisine with an ethos of providing great value for money. Open Monday-Saturday, 11am-1am, Sunday 11am-11pm.
Delicious pies, sandwiches and cakes made fresh everyday on site. Open Monday-Friday, 6.30am-2.30pm.
333 Great North Road
09 376 1401 View websitewww.facebook.com/pg/thecoffeestopltd/about/?ref=page_internalThe well-known Auckland live music venue, the Dog’s Bollix, has been all cleaned up and is ready to get down once more. Catch bands from across the spectrum of the local music scene performing live by checking the Facebook page or call them to book a table for a group. Open Tuesday-Thursday 5.30pm-1am, Friday-Saturday 5.30pm-3am.
A gourmet burger takeaway joint. It offers an interesing range of burger options such as The Bogan: New Zealand premium grassfed double Wagyu beef, topped with a golden hash brown, Texan style pulled pork and chicken tenderloin with American cheese and creamy brie cheese, smoked streaky bacon, chipotle aioli and Jack Daniel’s BBQ sauce on a brioche bun. Open Monday-Thursday, 11am-9pm, Friday, Saturday, 11am-10pm, Sunday, 11am-9pm.
Known for their cinnamon brioche, The Garnet Road Food Store also makes their own salads, pies, cakes and sweet treats. Dine in or takeaway. Open Tuesday-Friday, 7.30am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday, 8am-4pm.
A Japanese tapas bar, serving authentic Japanese dumplings of eight different flavors with a variety of meat and veggies. The half-moon shaped gyozas are a beautiful combination of crispiness and fluffiness. They go great with beer, wine and especially hot sake during the cooler season. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12pm till late.
Led by chef Kino Ruvas, The Hidden Village brings Asian street food to Ponsonby Central. Kino and his team are taking the techniques and flavours that line the streets of Asia. Serving Pinoy fare with a modern and Western-fusion spin. Open seven days, 11.30am-9.30pm.
For over 26 years this family owned and operated restaurant has been serving delicious, authentic Italian food in a welcoming, cosy and rustic atmosphere and whether it’s a large group or it’s an intimate dinner for two, you will always experience warm, friendly service. Takeaway pizza and pasta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 6pm-10pm.
The high quality flours selected by the team and the perfect recipe for the dough, makes their recipe so unique, featuring pizza which is crunchy on the outside and soft inside which is seriously tasty. All their dishes are cooked on the Vesuvian stone, using dry fiore di latte mozzarella with fresh milk and vegetables.
Situated in Victoria Park Market, one of Auckland’s most historic and treasured landmarks, The Oakroom is a beautiful space in an old part of town. Formerly a stable in the 1800s, The Oakroom has been carefully crafted in order to enhance a contemporary feel and maintain its natural and historic features. Open Tuesday-Friday 11am-late and Saturday 4pm-late.
Live music and DJs throughout the week, check the website for details. Open seven nights, 5pm-late.
This flagship store and kitchen offers an extensive range of raw breakfast cups, salads and wraps, snacks, sweet treats, nut mylks - all prepared fresh daily, and retail products. Choose from their made to order smoothies and coffee prepared by a passionate team. Open seven days, Monday-Friday, 7.30am-4pm, Saturday, 8am-3pm, Sunday 11am-3pm.
This is Atomic Coffee Roasters new cafe, The Rocket Store. They have partnered with Rocket Espresso Milano that provides a place to gather and enjoy great coffee and showcase the best espresso machines on the market today. The space boasts a sleek black interior created by the team at Izzard Design. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, Saturday-Sunday, 8am-4pm.
The Station Craft Freehouse serves New York-style bagels all day in sunny Beresford Square. At night it converts to serving all the best craft beers from around New Zealand, gourmet pizzas and is available for exclusive functions on weekends. With regular live music, DJs and events there is always something going on @TheStationAKL. Open weekdays 7.30am-late, weekends 8.30am-late.
Sixteen operators are rostered for appearances in the Street Food Collective, a shared food and drinks space in central Ponsonby. Stop by for lunch, dinner or a fancy-pants dessert, and enjoy some of the best street food vendors Auckland has to offer. Open 7 days.
This local pub has a cosy atmosphere, friendly service and food available all day. There is a breakfast buffet, brunch, lunch and dinner menu as well as bar snacks and woodfired pizza. Open seven days, 7am-9.30pm.
A down-to-earth watering hole with a laid-back feel featuring live music and pub grub. Open
Tuesday, 5pm-11pm, Wednesday, 4pm-11pm, Thursday, 4pm-12am, Friday-Saturday, 3pm-2am.
Offering three unique bars all under one roof. Harry is Ponsonby’s Hip Hop & R’N’B hot spot, Jack is the secret cocktail bar with views of the city, available for private hire. Comedy on Sunday night in George. Open Thursday-Sunday, 2pm-late.
A new bar to the Ponsonby Road strip.
More details to come.
All products at The Vegan Shop are 100% vegan, entirely animal-friendly and contain no animal ingredients. They are New Zealand's ethical market. They are dedicated to bringing you the best local, national and international products. Open Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:30pm, Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday and public holidays, closed.
Rocking Ponsonby since 2001, The Whiskey is a place where rock music and whiskey combine for a great night out. A relaxed and fun spot to meet friends after work, or party late into the night. They offer a huge range of whiskies to suit all palates along with Whiskey flight boards and masterclasses. An epic rock soundtrack ranging from The Doors and Pink Floyd to the Foo Fighters and Kings of Leon. Check out their Facebook page for live music line-up and upcoming events. Open seven days, 5pm-3am.
Nestled in the iconic Victoria Park Market, this restaurant serves up a bistro-styled seasonal menu infusing modern techniques into classic dishes. A place to meet for breakfast, lunch, dinner or after-work drinks, there is something for everyone at The White Rabbit on the Park. Open Monday-Wednesday, 3pm-late, Thursday-Friday, 8am-late and Saturday, 9am-late.
Thirty Nine has been serving delicious all day breakfast and lunch since 2005. It uses Fairtrade Allpress coffee and you can enjoy it in their lovely courtyard. Open seven days, 7am-4pm.
Tiger Burger is a fun, casual eatery specialising in modern Asian street eats including burgers, noodles and fried chicken with a secret garden courtyard. They believe in compassion, not cruelty. All of their ingredients are strictly ethical and locally sourced where possible. You won’t find any MSG, palm oil or sketchy sounding ingredients you can’t pronounce here.
Tokyo Club is ‘yokocho’ style Isakaya restaurant located in the heart of Ponsonby Central. Their Japanese family team includes well-known front of house manager Sarasa Shimura and Tokyo master blowfish-sushi chef Chikara Sato. It serves quality, affordable cuisine and beverages. With Asahi and Sapporo beers on tap and its own sakes brewed in Japan, this place has quickly become very popular.
Elevated above Victoria Park with north-facing views through the treetops across Auckland, Tom Tom Bar & Eatery is a great place to meet for drinks and experience its unique cuisine. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 11.30am-late.
Tomo has been serving delicious Japanese food for more than 14 years. It is fully licensed with 10 different sakes or wine and beer to enjoy with your food. The popular takeaway Lunch Box includes salad, tempura, rice, miso soup and your choice of meat or fish. BYO wine only. Open Monday, 10.30am-5pm and Tuesday-Saturday, 10.30am-10pm.
This local eatery serves roast meals, dine in or takeaway. Choose from beef, lamb and chicken. You can choose from a selection of vegetables: potatoes, kumara, pumpkin, peas and onions, topped with gravy.
Purveyors of exceptional coffee with delicious treats; mid-week chocolate fix - caramel, hazelnut slice or almond, cranberry brownie. A tough decision. Don’t forget to pick up your take home Millers Beans for your weekend coffee fix. Open Monday-Friday 8am-3pm.
It serves fresh healthy salads using locally sourced ingredients. Try the Clean Cobb: romaine, rocket, free range chicken, tomato, shredded cabbage, cucumber, beetroot, red onion, free range egg, tangy mustard vinaigrette (GF, DF). Open Monday-Friday, 7:30am-3pm, Saturday, 9am-2pm.
The Turkish Cafe serves fresh wholesome, halal food inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with a strong Turkish influence. There are set menus or it can tailor a menu to suit your tastes and the occasion you’re celebrating. Takeaway is available too. BYO. Open Monday-Thursday, 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday, 11am-11pm, Sunday, 4pm-9pm.
This cosy wine and cocktail bar offers an interesting menu of drinks and dishes. Plates are to be shared with a variety of dishes on offer, such as prawn toastie. From the drinks menu try the Free Love: pineapple chili tequila, agave and grapefruit soda. Open Tuesday-Thursday, 4pm-late, Friday and Saturday, 12 noon-late, and Sunday Supper Club 6pm-late coming soon.
It serves a mix of French, Italian and Mediterranean regional cuisines, and the menu changes with the seasons. Be sure to ask about the daily specials! Open Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, Saturday-Sunday, 9am-3pm.
For more than 16 years, in the heart of Grey Lynn, Urban Jungle has been turning out consistently good food. Fully licensed and BYO wine. Open seven days, 7am-4pm, Thursday-Saturday, 6pm-late.
Vic Park Cafe was born as an extension of a home and a friendship between an Irish barista doll, a crazy Mexican chef, and a Brazilian coffee, book and music lover. They are serious about good coffee, good food, a good environment and good people; a place to sit, laugh and enjoy. Open seven days, 7am-3.30pm.
At the heart of Auckland’s iconic Victoria Park Market, Viet Flames offers unforgettable flavors of Vietnam. Signature Vietnamese dishes are sumptuously prepared with a combination of locally sourced fresh organic produce and skillful traditional culinary techniques. Whether you are after a relaxing ambiance for meals, a fine dining experience or just a quick-fix lunch, Viet Flames takes the Vietnamese dining experience to a new level.
Whether you're a vodka veteran, novice or simply curious about vodka, this is the place to go and get your swill of vodka tasting. It offers 125 different vodkas and have three bars and six areas to eat. The food is modern Russian, with dishes such as the Olivier Salad: prawns (or without), a mix of new potatoes, apple, gherkin, quail eggs and sour cream and dill dressing, or the Akaroa King Salmon gravlax which is cured in vodka. Open seven days, 12 noon-late.
They produce nutritious, healthy 100% raw cold-pressed juice. As well as juices, you can choose from nut mylks and waters. It also has a range of hand-prepared whole food for breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner. Open seven days, Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm, Saturday-Saturday, 8am-4pm.
The Meadow Fresh Auckland CBD cafe of the year is set in comfortable retro surrounds, they have a full, all day international menu serving unique breakfast and lunch offerings, award winning Toasted Espresso coffee, gourmet pies, huge cabinet selection and wide array of sweet treats. Everything made in house and they can cater to every dietary need! Open Monday-Friday, 5.30am-3pm.
From the owners of The Whiskey, Win-Win is a cocktail bar with a fun retro vibe. They offer an ever-evolving cocktail menu and have cocktails on tap including Nitro Expresso Martini. A selection of wine and beer, and if you're feeling peckish, you can choose from one of their food bite options. Local DJ performances on Friday and Saturday. Enquire about their venue hire. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 5pm-late.
Wise Boys is your one stop shop for a face full of indulgent plant-based burger goodness. The boys built their food truck in late 2015 and have been roaming around since then, serving up amazing burgers and fries. They have recently opened their first permanent store in Grey Lynn, but the food truck is still out and about, in Auckland and beyond. 100% vegan, 100% delicious.
Wok Express is a quality Asian takeaway specialising in fresh, healthy, authentic Pan Asian food cooked fresh to order. They also offer a nutritional and dietary menu catering for low carb, keto and diabetics. Open seven days, 4.30pm-10pm. Home delivery, online ordering and payment available.
At Yeah Bowl Poke you can build your own bowl. Select your choice of base, fresh salad and fish then complete with your choice of toppings and dressings. Try the Salmon Supreme: fresh sashimi salmon, cucumber, edamame beans, seasoned seaweed, pineapple, yeah sauce, coconut chips, wasabi peas - served on black or brown rice, salad or 50/50. Open Monday-Friday, 10am-3.30pm and 5.30pm-9pm, Saturday, 11.30am-4pm.
Yume (previously known as Haru no Yume) is operated by Executive Chef Jake. Sourcing the freshest local ingredients, these are transformed into mouth watering Japanese dishes. The lunch menu includes sashimi, bento boxes, poke bowls, noodles and more. The dinner menu is concise and also features Izakaya – small shared dishes. Open for lunch, Monday-Friday, 11am-3pm and dinner Monday-Saturday, 5.30pm-midnight.
For over 24 years, with his passion for food, Geeyong Chris Chung has been involved in creating Japanese cuisine with his beautifully presented, authentic Japanese dishes. Offering Japanese beer, sake and wine and a great variety of vegetarian options. Open for lunch, dinner and takeaways from Monday-Saturday.
This authentic Mediterranean bakery and cafe make delicious filo pastry ‘borek’, traditional stuffed flat breads ‘gozleme’ and much more. Enjoy these baked delights with Turkish and Arabic espresso coffee. Open seven days, 7am-6pm.