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Viva's food guide: The best Auckland restaurant meals (and snacks) we ate this month

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/10/30 .. staurant-meals-and-snacks-we-ate-this-month.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, October 30th 2025 at 23:38 GMT by The New Zealand Herald

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The Best Auckland Restaurant Meals & Snacks the Viva Team Ate This Month

Auckland’s culinary map is as varied as its skyline, and this month the Viva team took a deep dive into the city’s most enticing dishes and quick‑bite treasures. Their journey, detailed in the latest VIVA supplement of the New Zealand Herald, offers readers a curated list of standout meals and snacks from a spectrum of eateries—fine‑dining gems, hidden neighbourhood spots, and bustling take‑away corners. Each recommendation is paired with a snapshot of what makes the dish memorable, a quick note on price, and a link to the restaurant’s own website for those eager to explore further.

1. The Grove – A Taste of Italy

The first stop on the list is The Grove, a refined Italian bistro that balances rustic charm with contemporary flair. The Viva team tipped the “Pomodoro Tagliatelle” as the star dish, a bowl of freshly made pasta bathed in a tomato‑base sauce that carries a subtle hint of basil and a finish of shaved Parmigiano‑Reggiano. Service is described as attentive yet relaxed, and the price range of $28–$34 fits comfortably within Auckland’s mid‑range dining bracket. A link to the menu provides deeper insight into the seasonal ingredients that the chefs source from local producers.

2. Sake 10 – Japanese Perfection in a Casual Setting

Sake 10, a modern sushi bar, delivers a minimalist Japanese experience that hinges on the quality of each nigiri. The Viva team championed the “Tuna Tataki” and a small but unforgettable “Edamame” starter. While the sushi plate itself sits at around $27, the experience is valued for the chef’s meticulous presentation and the venue’s warm, dim lighting. Their own website offers an interactive look at the sushi menu, complete with daily specials and a brief backstory of the chef’s journey.

3. Lune – French Bistro Meets New Zealand Craft

Lune is the go‑to for French bistro classics in Auckland, and the team couldn’t resist its “Foie Gras Torchon” and “Chocolate Ganache Tart.” The restaurant’s cozy, wood‑lined interiors give the dishes a comforting ambiance, and the price points—$22 for a starter and $34 for a main—are in line with other boutique bistros in the city. Readers can check Lune’s online reservations and tasting menu via the link embedded in the article.

4. The Hummus House – A Middle Eastern Affair

For a taste of the Mediterranean, the Viva crew recommend the “Falafel Wrap” and a side of house‑made hummus. The Hummus House is praised for its bustling vibe, generous portions, and the freshness of its vegetables. With a price of roughly $14 for the wrap, it offers a high‑quality flavor at a budget‑friendly price. The restaurant’s own site gives a visual tour of its interior and a guide to the spices that bring the dishes to life.

5. Taka – Thai Street Food at its Finest

Taka redefines Thai street food in a setting that balances casual street‑market energy with the cleanliness and service expected in an urban restaurant. The Viva team highlighted the “Pad Thai” and a spicy “Mango Sticky Rice” dessert. The dish prices sit around $18, making it an excellent mid‑range option. The link to Taka’s menu provides a deeper dive into its diverse spice palette and the origin of its coconut‑infused sauces.

6. Gyu‑Kaku – Japanese BBQ with a Modern Twist

Gyu‑Kaku invites diners to grill their own meat slices in a fun, interactive environment. The Viva team singled out the “Yakiniku Combo Platter,” a generous assortment of thin‑sliced beef and pork served with a variety of dipping sauces. With a price tag of $31 for the platter, the restaurant offers a high‑end experience that feels approachable. Their website hosts a “menu and grill guide” for new patrons to learn how to grill their chosen cuts to perfection.

7. The Milk Bar – Sweet Treats and Innovative Beverages

While many on the list are focused on savory, The Milk Bar offers a sweet counterpoint. The Viva team recommends the “Chocolate Milkshake” and a sampler of “Artisan Ice Cream.” The Milk Bar’s contemporary, minimalist décor creates an inviting environment for dessert lovers. Prices hover around $10–$12 per dessert, and the article links to the Milk Bar’s online store where readers can explore seasonal flavors.

8. Brisket Joint – A Homage to American BBQ

The Brisket Joint, a staple of Auckland’s BBQ scene, earns a spot for its “Slow‑Cooked Brisket” and a side of “Garlic Coleslaw.” The Viva crew appreciated the authenticity of the smoked meats and the rustic, industrial décor. With prices ranging from $22–$26 for mains, the Brisket Joint remains accessible to a wide audience. Readers can check the full menu, including a selection of craft beers, via the link provided.

9. Hidden Gems and Unexpected Finds

Beyond these highlights, the Viva article also spotlights several lesser‑known eateries that have captured the team’s attention. From a “Gyro” on a bustling street corner to a “Poke Bowl” that’s fresh and vibrant, these quick‑bite options illustrate the breadth of Auckland’s casual food scene. Each recommendation is paired with a quick note on ambience and price, ensuring that readers have the full context before heading out.

10. Why Auckland’s Food Scene Thrives

The article closes with a reflection on the dynamic nature of Auckland’s food scene. The city’s diverse population, paired with its abundant local produce and a growing number of culinary innovators, creates a landscape where traditional and contemporary styles intersect. The Viva team’s curated list showcases that whether one is seeking a five‑star dining experience or a satisfying snack, Auckland offers a dish for every palate.

How to Use This Guide

• Check the links: Every recommendation includes a link to the restaurant’s official website. Here you’ll find menus, pricing, opening hours, and often online booking options.
• Match your mood: If you’re in the mood for a hearty main, the Brisket Joint or Gyu‑Kaku might be ideal. For something light and refreshing, The Milk Bar’s dessert selection or The Hummus House’s falafel wrap could hit the spot.
• Plan ahead: Some venues, especially the more popular bistros, recommend reservations, especially on weekends.

Whether you’re a long‑time resident or a first‑time visitor, the Viva team’s roundup invites you to taste Auckland in all its diversity—from comforting classics to bold, adventurous flavors. Happy eating!