Skip the mundane evening routine and come into the city centre for a night of live shows and delicious food. With an extensive range of eateries to choose from, and a great line up of exciting events and gigs, there’s nothing better than a lively night in the heart of the city.
Aotea Arts Quarter
Perfect if you're attending an event at Q Theatre, Auckland Town Hall, Aotea Centre, The Classic Comedy and Bar or Basement Theatre.
The Kimchi Project | 20 Lorne Street
Hidden on Lorne Street, this garden oasis is an ideal spot to visit before or after a show. Their Korean cuisine is to die for, with options such as bulgogi burgers, chili oil squid ink pasta and kimchi mozzarella pancakes to name a few.
Citizen Q | 305 Queen Street
Conveniently located in Q Theatre, Citizen Q is the perfect place to kick off your evening. Whether you're attending a performance at Q or not, this spot provides a welcoming and inclusive space for all walks of life.
Tony's Steakhouse | 27 Wellesley Street West
As Auckland's oldest restaurant, you can put your trust in the hand of Tony's Steakhouse for a warm welcome and a tasty meal.
Find more dining options in the Aotea Arts Quarter, here.
Federal & Elliott
Ideal if you're heading to Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, SkyCity Theatre, or a venue in the Aotea Arts Quarter.
Mr Taco | 75c Victoria Street West
If you're pressed for time, a pit-stop at Mr Taco may be just what you're after. This authentic taqueria serves sensational Mexican cuisine, including nachos, quesadillas and burritos, and if you're feeling adventurous, we recommend opting for their cactus taco.
Chawlas Indian Restaurant | 21a Wellesley Street West
Stop by Chawlas before catching a show, and we can assure you'll be leaving with a happy belly. If you feel decision anxiety looming, we suggest ordering a variety of dishes with your group. The tikka, chana masala and rarra chicken are great options.
Elliot Stables | 39-41 Elliott Street
At Elliott Stables, you can sit anywhere and drink anywhere - making it an ideal location if you're dining with a group that struggles to make decisions. Do the obligatory lap as you peruse the menus then sit down a savour a delicious meal. If you're a lover of Latin cuisine, HOP IN Latino's mouth-watering menu is a must-try. For Italian, we recommend De Niro Ristorante while Le Paris is the place to indulge in French fare.
SkyCity precinct | 90 Federal Street
SkyCity boasts a handful of fan favourite eateries that are perfect for a pre or post-show meal. Whether you choose Cassia at SkyCity, Masu, Federal Delicatessen, Depot Eatery and Oyster Bar or The Sugar Club, you're sure to have a delightful dining experience that will perfectly complement your evening adventure.
The Tandoor | 5/205 Queen Street (entrance on Elliott Street)
The Tandoor promises mouth-watering, authentic Indian cuisine - and they certainly don't disappoint! Their menu features a range of delicious, authentic dishes prepared using traditional recipes. From kebabs and curries to biryani and a tasty vegetarian selection, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Dragon Boat Restaurant | Atrium on Elliott, 7/37 Elliott Street
Dragon Boat Restaurant is a go-to for delicious Cantonese cuisine. From dim sum and congee through to Asian-inspired cocktails and delicious desserts, this eatery has it all.
Find more dining options in the Federal & Elliott Street district, here.
Britomart
Just a short stroll from Spark Arena and in close proximity to The Cloud and Shed 10.
kingi | 29 Galway Street
Located in the brick-lined laneway between Galway Street and Customs Street East, kingi's menu showcases fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, game and New Zealand produce served in a creative and delicious way. With it's cosy, intimate atmosphere, kingi is the perfect spot to relax and savour a delicious bite before a show.
The Brit | 122 Quay Street
Whether you're looking to grab a cold one with mates or sip on cocktails pre-show, The Brit has got you covered. Their menu features everything from pizzas and burgers to an extensive selection of delicious sharing plates. You certainly won't leave hungry!
Bar non Solo | 52 Tyler Street
If you're heading to a show at Spark Arena, Bar Non Solo's pre-show menu may be hard to pass up. For $30, indulge in the likes of whipped ricotta, arancini, cured meats, cheeses and a pizza - see the menu here.
Amano | 66-68 Tyler Street
A true city centre gem, Amano offers a dining experience that is both refined and approachable. Their menu celebrates seasonal ingredients and rustic, Italian-inspired fare, delivering a culinary experience that is simply divine. To top it all off, the setting is equally impressive, providing the perfect ambience to sit and relax before your show.
alma | Corner of Gore & Tyler Street
This award-winning eatery is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and its commitment to serving delicious modern cuisine. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the menu at alma takes inspiration from changing seasons and local produce, while also incorporating international influences.
Perch | 23 Galway Street
Previously known as Xuxu Dumpling Bar, Perch is a charming corner bar serving boutique drinks and handcrafted dumplings. Their traditional yet innovative flavours make for a truly delightful dining experience. Whether you're basking in the last of the evening sun, or cosying up inside, Perch is the perfect pre-show destination.
Find more Britomart dining options, here.
The Viaduct & Wynyard Quarter
Perfect if you've planned an evening at ASB Waterfront Theatre, The Cloud or Shed 10.
Somm Wine Bar | Shed 22, Princes Wharf
Offering a cosy and intimate urban cellar door experience, this spot is one for the wine enthusiasts seeking a taste of New Zealand's most iconic wineries. Their tantalising food menu matches their exquisite selection of wine, featuring the likes of delicious charcuterie and antipasti, sharing plates and mouth-watering pizzas.
Bivacco | 115 Customs Street
Bivacco promises unfussy Italian food from locally sourced ingredients, and oh do they deliver. Whether you're making a meal out of snacks, or looking for a full blown feast, this is the perfect place to indulge in your favourite Italian dishes. And if you happen to be seeing a show on a weekday, you're in luck - Bivacco's aperitivo hour (from 4pm-6pm) includes free roaming bar bites, making it an even more irresistible location.
Feriza's | 12 Jellicoe Street
Offering a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Cuisine, Feriza's is a charming restaurant with a cosy atmosphere - making it a great spot to grab a bite before catching a show. Wit a menu featuring succulent meats, fresh seafood and vibrant vegetarian options, there's something for everyone at this popular eatery.
See more dining options in the Viaduct, here and Wynyard Quarter, here.
