The Lewisham Awards

Recognising the best of Auckland Hospitality

Auckland’s hospitality stars have been revealed, with the winners announced for the 2026 Lewisham Awards, the annual celebration of the people and places shaping Tāmaki Makaurau’s vibrant dining scene.

Now in its twenty‑fourth year, the awards shine a spotlight on the chefs, bartenders, venues and front‑of‑house professionals who bring Auckland’s food culture to life. Each nomination reflects the passion, talent and dedication that make our city centre’s hospitality industry truly exceptional.

Gathered here are all the city‑centre winners in one place - scroll down for inspiration for your next night out!

Gilt Brasserie

Gilt is an all‑day inner‑city brasserie bringing contemporary European flavours to the historic Chancery Chambers building. With decades of global kitchen experience and a genuine love for cosmopolitan dining, the team has created a space that nods to the great brasseries of New York and Paris while still feeling unmistakably Auckland.

This year, their exceptional craft and hospitality were recognised with several standout wins:

Negociants New Zealand Outstanding Wine Experience
Hancocks Outstanding Bartender - Justin Ydia
Anchor Food Professionals Outstanding Chef - Glen File

Panacea

Tucked away on O’Connell Street, Panacea is a discreet yet character‑filled hideaway known for its inventive, small‑batch cocktails. Each drink is shaped by ingredients sourced fresh every morning, resulting in a menu that’s always evolving and defined by precision, creativity and standout flavour.

This commitment to excellence was recognised at the Lewisham Awards with two notable honours:

Long Burroughs Outstanding Front of House - Ryan Oliver
Restaurant Association Hospitality Hero - Dany Dentith

Amano

Amano is one of Britomart’s standout dining spots, offering a seasonal menu designed to tempt every palate. Set opposite the sparkling Waitematā Harbour and spread across the historic Altrans and Quay buildings, it’s an elegant place to settle in for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Its signature ceiling, draped with bushels of dried flowers, adds to the warm, welcoming atmosphere that has become unmistakably Amano.

Their commitment to excellent hospitality was recognised with the Silver Fern Farms Outstanding Emerging Hospitality Talent honour, awarded to Ellie Sims Hilditch.

Iconic Auckland Eats 2026 - Amano (Image credits: Babiche Martens)

d.o.s.e

Nestled among the boutiques and eateries of High Street, d.o.s.e is an effortlessly stylish espresso bar where sleek black design meets exceptional coffee and thoughtfully made treats. Whether you’re after a familiar favourite for your daily fix or in the mood to try something a little different, their menu has you covered.

Their dedication was recognised at the Lewisham Awards, where they received the Bidfood Outstanding Café award.

Truth or Dare Bar

Founded by the dynamic duo Theo and Yovin, this bar is a true celebration of creativity and craft. Step into an intimate, sustainably designed space - home to New Zealand’s first interactive two‑way bar top, and watch your cocktail come together right in front of you. Chat with the bartender as they mix, shake and pour with precision and flair, turning every drink into a little performance.

Their exceptional mixology and hospitality were recognised with the Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey Outstanding Cocktail Experience Award.

Ground Wine Bar

Located just below Cahn’s Wine Shop, Ground Wine Bar is an easygoing spot to unwind after work, catch up with friends, or settle into a cosy nook with a good read. Explore a thoughtful selection of wines from around the world, each with its own story and plenty of knowledge to discover along the way. Pair your glass with small bites - from charcuterie boards to mezze platters, perfect for sharing.

Their successful debut was recognised at the Lewisham Awards, where Ground Wine Bar received the Blanc Outstanding New Establishment Award.