Auckland is brimming with fantastic restaurants offering an impressive selection of wines - from local picks and around the world.
This list is all about restaurants so no wineries included. So, if you are seeking the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of your favourite vino with delicious food, look no further.
This list is not in a particular order and I have expanded on key favourites of each place listed here.
Shed 22 Princes Wharf, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Nestled on Princes Wharf, Auckland CBD, this spacious modern wine bar offers an experience all wine lovers will never forget. With a wide range of offerings and a curated menu of delicious food, Somm is a great place to visit for a casual glass or two, or for a longer stay for a full wine cellar door experience.
What I like in particular:
Modern, timeless interior design that makes you want to stay for longer
Despite the high-end vibe and service, it is affordable - i.e. worth your money
Affordable-ish yet delicious steak served with chimichurri
146 Kitchener Road, Milford, Auckland 0620
Milford local's favourite wine bar with a huge range of wines from all over New Zealand and the globe. There is no full wine menu but ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations - they will be able to pick the right one for you to taste initially.
The food menu also changes very frequently, written on the chalkboard near the entrance.
What I like in particular:
Very cosy and intimate environment, where you can see every part of the space
Variety of wines where you are almost guaranteed to try something new
Relaxed staff and communication style - feels like you are visiting a mate's place for a drink
4/228 Orakei Road, Orakei, Auckland 1071
Famous for their brilliant dishes where they house-make everything - from handmade pasta to sourdough bread, Ampersand Eatery also offers an extensive wine menu.
Often hosting a monthly event involving a curated list of wines, the team at Ampersand Eatery know one or two (or hundreds) things about wine.
What I like in particular:
Huge space, offering both a cosy main space and the ones at the back with a beautiful Orakei Bay view
Handmade pasta is a must-try; a very under-rated restaurant for this
Offers modernised and high-end versions of simple food, such as burgers and Japanese ramen - Ampersand Eatery executes this extremely well
St Kevin's Arcade, 183 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Perhaps one of the most affordable pasta places in Auckland City, Pici is a very well-known establishment taking pride in beautiful house-made pasta and its curated list of wines.
It's very cosy and warm inside and there aren't lots of seats so booking is highly recommended.
What I like in particular:
Affordable and perfect for a quick weekend pasta + wine lunch
Pici cacio e pepe is a must-try
Market Place, Viaduct, Auckland 1010
This is my personal favourite place to eat steak in Auckland and also offers an extensive list of wines which you will see as you walk into this place.
With lots of seating available, it is one of Auckland's iconic restaurants with a beautiful view of the viaduct.
What I like in particular:
Affordable price compared to the quality of the steak and service
Quieter vibe compared to other places on the viaduct - offering a more relaxed experience
115 Customs Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
A good, modern Italian restaurant offering simple yet good Italian food. The space is big with different seating options - capable of hosting any guests or functions.
Along with their beers and cocktails, the wine range is also extensive.
What I like in particular:
Good pizza, perfect for sharing - try Spicy Salami
This place attracts all demographics - young to older, friend groups to families; the vibe is great
2 Chancery Street, Chambers, Auckland 1010
Josh Emett's most recent venture, Gilt Brasserie is found at the Chancery Chambers, offering modern European dishes. The list of wines they offer is one of the biggest in Auckland CBD and if you are new to wines, it may be a little overwhelming. However, the staff is friendly and professional - ask them for recommendations - this is what I do each time I visit here.
What I like in particular:
Huge list of good wines and of course other alcoholic beverages
One of the best oysters I have had in Auckland
Interior is a mix of modern and classic - done very well
155 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Inspired by the flavours and techniques of the Iberian Coast, Candela's menu is popular for the tapas and of course, wines - especially Spanish wines.
The warm, luxurious interior adds to the overall wine-and-dine experience - great for either casual sips of wine or dinner.
What I like in particular:
Cosy interior, that makes you feel like you have been transported to a restaurant overseas
I may sound a bit weird but Candela's grilled cabbage is really good and I recommend it