If you’re feeling adventurous and want to treat your taste buds to a tasty quick bite, these buzzing eateries are our top picks in the city. Whether you’re on the race against time or believe that quick bites are the next best thing, drop into the city for an authentic, innovative or classic plate.
Sumthin Dumplin | 12 O’Connell Street
Taste the dumplings made by owner, Shane Liu’s mother. Known as the mother of dumplings, her tasty parcels are full of flavoursome ingredients that will make this quick bite one you’ll return for. Sumthin Dumplin’s Shanghainese dumplings come with traditional fillings as well as innovative fusion recipes. Join the lively contemporary eatery for an on-the-go snack.
Lowbrow | Queen’s Rise, 125 Queen Street
LOWBROW.
Lowbrow is the eatery to visit anytime of the day for a quick, seasonal meal. The chill vibes of the place and the dusty neon pink theme make it a memorable setting whether it’s for a quick lunch or a late weekend dinner. Lowbrow’s fresh approach to contemporary fast food makes for a meal you can feel good about. Pair with a natural wine to amp up the occasion.
Bao Baby Bao | 39-41 Elliot Street
Bao Baby Bao
Step into the world of Chinese, New Zealand fusion and order the irresistible selection of Bao. From philly cheese steak to beer battered eggplant fillings, there’s a bite for everyone. The eatery is lined with glowing lanterns to set the mood for a romantic and intimate experience.
Burger Boy | 149-159 Quay Street West
Sink your teeth into a burger at no better place than Burger Boy. Serving hot boy sauce or burger boy relish with every burger, you’ll be guaranteed the signature iconic taste with every option. The selection of burgers range from New Zealand beef to Korean chicken and are not limited to the fillings on the menu. The exhaustive list of add-ons lets you get creative and recreate your favourite flavours. Pair the burger with a shake for the ultimate combo.
Wise Boys | Commercial Bay, 7 Queen Street
Wise Boys have brought themselves to the heart of the city and can now be found at Commercial Bay’s Harbour Eats. Offering delicious vegan burgers good enough to convert any meat eater, and with 100% compostable packaging you will leave feeling good in more ways than one. Be sure to try their take on the classic cheeseburger, or their smoky barbeque ‘pulled-not-pork’ burger for a quick lunch meal.
Mezze Bar | 9 Durham Street East
Mezze Bar
Mezze Bar is the home of unpretentious eating and tasty tapas. Head in for a couple of traditional Spanish Tapas and relax amongst the warm tones and hanging plants of the space. Make a late night trip to this hidden gem to explore their famous range of espresso coffee and cakes. Its ideal location makes for a great spot pre- and post-show going.
Food Truck Fridays | Takutai Square
Britomart’s Food Truck Friday is back to give us that end of week boost! Here you’ll find some of Auckland’s best food coming hot and fresh out the back of a truck. Whether you are looking to enjoy some afternoon sun, or simply grab and go, get yourself some classic burgers, tacos and summer salads. With a weekly rotation of vendors, there will always be something new and interesting to keep you coming back.
Auckland Fish Market | 22-32 Jellicoe Street
Established well over 100 years ago, Auckland Fish Market remains the number one spot for seafood dining in the city. Newly revamped and situated in Auckland’s famed Wynyard Quarter, you’ll find eight eateries all serving the finest seafood. Be sure to catch the regular live music performances and stunning views for a post work unwind, or a much needed lunch break. There is even a bar on hand for a cheeky afternoon drink. Go on, we won’t tell.
Tart Bakery | 7 Queen Street
Long a staple of the Grey Lynn Community, Tart Bakery is now bringing it’s delicious range of plant based delights to the city centre at Harbour Eats. With an array of pastries, pies, sandwiches and European breads, there is no shortage of quick bites to go, or to stay. Open morning till late every night, no matter when that craving hits they are always on hand to serve.