Gather your closest foodie friends and try out the menus from these spots around the heart of the city. Forget about food envy, with menus that are designed to be shared you can try everything that is ordered and get a true understanding of what the restaurant is really like.
White + Wongs | 149 Quay St
A fusion oasis, White + Wong’s brings the very best of Asian cuisine to one place. Taking inspiration from the cuisines of Hong Kong, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand, White + Wongs offers a variety of sharing plates that are all packed with flavour. Next time you are there order the popular peking duck, along with the roti roll, Massaman lamb curry and a crowd favourite, the bang-bang chicken.
Hello Beasty | 95-97 Customs St W
When you go to Hello Beasty you are in good hands, as chef Stuart Morgan has been cooking in his chef whites since 1989. The menu is specifically designed for sharing, so bring a group of friends and experience New Zealand modern fusion fare at its finest. The menu is plentiful with lots to choose from, such as wagyu beef potstickers, roasted Hapuka, and Korean BBQ chicken.
Culprit | 12 Wyndham St
A hidden gem in the city centre off Queen Street, Culprit is one for the foodies. Their unique trolley service is inspired by yum cha, where 8-9 seasonal bites are brought straight to your table. Trust the genius minds behind the menu and be taken on a journey like no other. Constantly challenging the status quo and taking risks, the menu at Culprit features dishes like wakame fry bread, pressed pork cheek and burnt brussel sprouts.
Image credit: MoVida Melbourne
Image credit: MoVida Melbourne
MoVida | 52 Tyler Street
Using the best possible seasonal produce, MoVida's dishes showcase and celebrate Spanish food, culture and flavours. Iconic tapas sit alongside newer additions with ever-changing daily specials. Prepare to be wowed as you enjoy alongside iconic views out to the Waitematā Harbour and beyond. Give the patatas bravas a try, or tuck into the wood-fired seafood paella.
Baduzzi | 10-26 Jellicoe St
Baduzzi is an award-winning Italian restaurant located on the corner of Jellicoe Street and Fish Lane. Take time out of your week to enjoy a long dinner at Baduzzi, where you will experience attentive and lively service, a quality wine list, and a sharing menu that will please every member of your party. Choose from their set menu to share or order a mix of dishes from their main menu, with a popular choice always being the handcrafted meatballs, with options of wild deer, crayfish, slow cooked lamb and more. Other sharing dishes include organic cured meats, wood fired prawns, eggplant parmigiana, and ricotta cannoli.
Vivace | 85 Fort St
Located in the laneways of Fort Street, Vivace is an intimate spot complete with a thoughtful and unmistakably Mediterranean menu made to be shared. Now an Auckland institution after 30 years, Vivace has constantly evolved but consistently created unique dining experiences for all. Start with some fresh bread and olive oil, before going onto stick pork ribs, Moroccan spiced lamb empanadas and the spicy prawn pizza. To perfect the night, choose from the lovingly curated wine list featuring an array of local wines.