Hidden gems in the city centre

Perhaps you have your tried and true places to go in the heart of the city, maybe a favourite bar, restaurant, or shopping destination. But there are some amazing hidden gems that the city has to offer. Forget about that “been there, done that” mentality, and check out our list of quirky and unusual places around the city centre for an off-the-beaten track adventure around Auckland city centre.

Remedy coffee | 1 Wellesley St W 

Though constantly packed with loyal regulars, Remedy Coffee is still considered a gem as there is a whole future customer base which isn’t aware of this cafe located opposite The Civic. As you enter Remedy, you will be struck by the eclectic decor, warm service, and a coffee list which has true classic and quirky additions. The coffee is carefully selected, with single origin and hand-picked beans from all over the world. 

Queen's Wineshop | 1 Queen's Street 

Tucked into the base of Number 1 Queen Street, just off Te Komititanga Square, Queens Wineshop offers a quiet, curated retreat for those seeking more from their glass. Acting as both a street-level portal to the rooftop venue above and a destination in its own right. John Robertson's team shares his unpretentious knowledge and instinct for good drinking. If there’s no winemaker pouring in-store (a regular occurrence), there’s likely still something open, ready for a splash and a chat. Queens Wineshop may be small, but it is building something big: a local hub for wine lovers and learners alike. 

Slow Koi | 227 Queen Street

Inspired by Japanese tea culture. This new Strand Arcade Queen Street spot specialises in coffee that promotes relaxation and healing, much like the experience of drinking tea. The team wants customers to engage all their senses when they enter this experiential space, taking in the taste, texture, aroma, sound and visuals.

The Nightcar | 44 Queen Street

This underground spot on Queen Street serves epic cocktails and delicious dishes from the north of the Yangtze River. Imagine The Nightcar as a cool twist on Chinese grub. They've got a mix of small, sharable bites – some hot, some cold, with both veggie and meat options, plus a bunch of noodle dishes. It's all designed to amp up your cocktail game, making it a laid-back, tasty combo for a good time.

Books on High | 8 High Street

Have you heard about this hidden gem on High Street? If you wander up to the fourth level in the lift in Books on High, you'll find a hidden reader's paradise! Tucked away at the top of Books on High is a cosy ready room, perfect for curling up with a great read and maybe even a cup of coffee or tea from the nearby Ozone Coffee or Zealong Tea House! The Reading Lounge, located on level four, offers a tranquil escape, where you can lose yourself in the captivating pages of a story. Whether you're in search of a quick read or a leisurely browse, Books on High provides a sanctuary for book lovers in the heart of the city. 

Ground Wine Bar | 10 O'Connell Street

This new underground wine bar run by Martin and Alek is a great place to unwind. The owners have both taken their knowledge for wine and turned this space into a cozy, intimate and sophisticated place to be. The perfect spot to grab drinks after work, catch up with friends, or even enjoy a lovely read in a little nook.

Frittaly | Wilson Parking on Elliott Street

Frittaly brings a taste of Italy to the streets of Auckland. From their crispy fried Italian pizza, delicious arancino and neopolitan crocche, there are plenty of yummy options to choose from and all under $20! This pop- up vendor stand is open from 12pm daily until they sell out!

Quinn Bar | 50 Mills Lane

This new tucked away bar on Mill's Lane transports you to a new world, with their elevated show-stopping cocktails. The ever-changing lighting scheme takes this cosy space from after work drinks to intimate late-night catch ups and has a touch of class to its sleek decor.

Little Culprit | 151 Wyndham Street

The cosy and sophisticated atmosphere is the perfect place to slow down, relax and sip on delicious cocktails, beautiful wine and scrumptious bites. Little Culprit has two distinct spaces. The entry level opens into the grand dispensary where you can sit at the bar and watch the bartenders create old and new classics. The lower lounge is an intimate space inspired by hotel bars of yore.