Best spring lunches in the city centre

Milenta | Victoria Park Market, 210/218 

Milenta brings the bold flavours and traditions of South America to Auckland, with an ever-changing menu cooked over coals in an outdoor kitchen using the freshest ingredients from Aotearoa. Awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand in the 2026 NZ Michelin Guide, it's the perfect spot to savour standout dishes like the iconic Bone-In Ribeye, featured on Iconic Auckland Eats. 

Banh Mi King | 239 Queen Street

Banh Mi King keeps it traditional, serving authentic Vietnamese bánh mì with a crusty baguette, house-made pâté, pickled veggies, fresh herbs, and fillings prepared from scratch every morning. Beyond the bánh mì, you'll find comforting phở, fresh rice paper rolls, vermicelli noodle salads, and a Vietnamese iced coffee that's bold, sweet, and guaranteed to wake up your taste buds. 

Mr Taco | 75C Victoria Street West

Mr Taco is your one-stop shop for all your taco cravings, just steps from the Sky Tower. Not sure how many tacos to order? For a light meal, two is ideal, for a decent meal, go for three and if you're looking for full satisfaction, four is the magic number! A true local hidden gem, they're known for their delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly service.

Goodlife Juice Co. | 47 Fort Street | 132 Halsey Street

Goodlife prepares nearly everything in‑house, from almond butter and cashew milk to crunchy granola, dressings and cold‑pressed juices, making it a healthy takeaway choice. If you’re craving something cold, their superfood smoothies and açaí bowls are worth the hype! You’ll find them across the city centre in Fort Street and Wynyard Quarter.

1947 Eatery | 60 Federal Street

Embrace the flavours of spring with a refined lunch at 1947 Eatery. Indulge in favourites like butter chicken, tandoori lamb cutlets, and fragrant biryani, all crafted with bold spices and contemporary flair. Paired with warm hospitality, it's the ideal setting for a memorable afternoon dining experience.

Billypot | 22 Jellicoe Street

Across the board, the Auckland Fish Markets creates simple, stunning fare that heroes our world-class seafood. Billypot is a great example of this philosophy, taking the freshest mussels and serving them with your pick of tomato and herb, white wine and coconut curry sauce.

Hello Beasty | 95-97 Customs Street West

A waterfront favourite and a Michelin-selected restaurant, Hello Beasty's menu offers a contemporary fusion of Japanese, Korean and Chinese cuisine. This is a perfect place for sharing menus and to experience bold, clean flavours; next time you are looking for a lunch spot, try their Prawn & Crab Toast, featured on Iconic Auckland Eats. 

Mermaid Sushi Cafe | 60 High Street

With its soothing blue palette and ocean‑inspired decor, this spot is ideal for a laid‑back work lunch or a casual catch‑up with friends. For a strong hit of flavour, try the Inari Honey Teriyaki Wagyu or the Inari Kimchi and Pork. Their crunchy, seaweed‑wrapped sushi tacos are another standout, packed with fillings like eel, clams, prawns, and more.

Alma | Corner of Gore & Tyler Street

alma is a celebration of food cooked over fire, with dishes that are flamed, charred, and shaped by the seasons. Drawing on local ingredients while taking inspiration from afar, alma creates a dining experience that feels both familiar and unexpected. Recognised as a Michelin-selected restaurant and winner of Iconic Auckland Eats 2025 for its Beef Tongue, they deliver comfort, creativity, and plenty of flavour in every bite. 

Hi Toastie | 227 Queen Street

Forget what you know about toasties, Hi Toastie take them up a notch packed full of delicious ingredients and layered with sauces for maximum flavour! Their toastie game is next level with mouth-watering combinations that will have you drooling in seconds. Picture bulgogi, cabbage and a fried egg, or French toast with sweet and creamy kaya jam - it's like a flavour explosion in your mouth!