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The best places to eat and drink on Auckland''s North Shore

The North Shore's Best Restaurants & Bars: Your 2025 Food & Drink Hit List

As Auckland's North Shore continues to evolve into a vibrant culinary hub, 2025 promises an exciting array of dining and drinking experiences that blend innovation with timeless appeal. From the bustling streets of Takapuna to the serene vibes of Milford and beyond, this hit list curates the crème de la crème of restaurants and bars, drawing on local flavors, international influences, and sustainable practices. Whether you're a foodie seeking bold fusion dishes or a cocktail enthusiast hunting for craft libations, the North Shore has something to tantalize every palate. We've scoured the scene to highlight must-visit spots that are redefining the area's gastronomic landscape, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients and community-driven vibes. Let's dive into the essentials for your 2025 culinary adventures.

Starting with the standout restaurants, Takapuna's Franc's Bar & Diner leads the pack with its unpretentious yet sophisticated approach to modern New Zealand cuisine. Nestled on Hurstmere Road, this gem has become a local favorite for its hearty brunches and inventive dinners. Imagine starting your day with their signature smashed avocado on sourdough, topped with poached eggs and a sprinkle of dukkah, or indulging in evening plates like grilled octopus with chorizo and paprika aioli. What sets Franc's apart is its commitment to sustainability—sourcing seafood from local fisheries and produce from nearby farms. The ambiance is casual chic, with exposed brick walls and a lively outdoor terrace perfect for people-watching. In 2025, keep an eye out for their expanded plant-based menu, catering to the growing demand for eco-conscious dining.

Not far away, in the heart of Milford, you'll find the elegant Tok Tok, a haven for Asian fusion enthusiasts. This restaurant masterfully combines Thai, Japanese, and Korean elements into dishes that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful. Signature offerings include the crispy pork belly bao buns, drizzled with a tangy hoisin glaze, and the miso-glazed black cod that melts in your mouth. The interior boasts sleek wooden accents and ambient lighting, creating an intimate setting ideal for date nights or small gatherings. Tok Tok's bar program is equally impressive, featuring sake-infused cocktails like the yuzu martini. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, the menu rotates seasonally, ensuring repeat visits feel fresh. For 2025, they're introducing interactive cooking classes, allowing patrons to learn the art of sushi rolling or Thai curry making.

Venturing into Albany, the North Shore's industrial-chic suburb, Crave Café stands out for its all-day dining prowess. This spot is a go-to for health-conscious eaters, offering nutrient-packed bowls like the quinoa and kale superfood salad with grilled halloumi and pomegranate dressing. But don't mistake it for just a café—dinner service ramps up with gourmet burgers made from grass-fed beef and vegan alternatives that rival the originals. The venue's spacious layout includes a kid-friendly play area, making it family-oriented without sacrificing style. In the coming year, Crave is set to launch a zero-waste initiative, partnering with local compost programs to minimize environmental impact.

For those craving Italian authenticity, Birkenhead's Gusto Italiano is a timeless choice. This family-run trattoria serves up classics like handmade pasta carbonara and wood-fired pizzas with toppings sourced from New Zealand's best artisanal producers. The osso buco, slow-cooked to perfection, is a highlight, paired with a robust Chianti from their extensive wine list. The warm, rustic decor evokes the Italian countryside, complete with checkered tablecloths and herb-infused aromas wafting from the open kitchen. Gusto's charm lies in its community feel—regulars often linger over espresso and tiramisu. Looking ahead to 2025, they're expanding their outdoor seating for al fresco dining during warmer months, enhancing the experience with live acoustic music on weekends.

Shifting gears to seafood lovers, Devonport's Fish Kitchen offers a fresh take on oceanic delights. Overlooking the harbor, this spot specializes in sustainably caught fish and chips, elevated with gourmet twists like tempura-battered snapper served with truffle fries. Their raw bar features oysters from Bluff, shucked to order, and ceviche marinated in citrus and herbs. The nautical-themed interior, with blue hues and fishing net accents, immerses diners in a coastal escape. Pair your meal with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from their New Zealand-centric wine selection. In 2025, Fish Kitchen plans to introduce pop-up events with guest chefs, focusing on underutilized seafood species to promote biodiversity.

No hit list would be complete without bars that shine in their own right. Takapuna Beach's Madame George is a cocktail haven, blending Latin American flair with Kiwi ingenuity. Their mixologists craft drinks like the passionfruit caipirinha or a smoked mezcal old fashioned, using house-made infusions. The vibrant, colorful space buzzes with energy, especially during happy hours featuring tapas-style sharing plates. It's the perfect spot for sundowners, with views of the beach adding to the allure.

In Browns Bay, The Patriot pub embodies the classic Kiwi bar experience with a modern twist. Known for its craft beer selection from local breweries like Garage Project, it offers flights that let you sample IPAs, stouts, and sours. The menu complements with hearty pub grub—think loaded nachos or venison pies. Live sports screenings and trivia nights keep the crowd engaged, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

For wine aficionados, Milford's Cellar Door Wine Bar is unparalleled. This intimate venue curates an impressive array of New Zealand vintages, from Marlborough Pinot Noirs to Hawke's Bay Syrahs. Sommeliers guide tastings, paired with cheese and charcuterie boards. The cozy, dimly lit atmosphere encourages lingering conversations, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts.

Albany's Hopscotch Brewery & Taproom brings the craft beer scene to life with on-site brewing and experimental flavors like mango-infused hazy ales. Tours offer behind-the-scenes insights, while the taproom's industrial vibe pairs well with food truck collaborations.

Devonport's Esplanade Hotel Bar channels old-world charm with classic cocktails and harbor views. Their gin and tonic menu highlights New Zealand distilleries, and high tea service adds a touch of elegance.

Mairangi Bay's Beach House Eatery doubles as a bar with oceanfront cocktails, specializing in tropical mixes like pineapple mojitos. It's a relaxed spot for sunset drinks.

Birkenhead's The Backyard Bar & Eatery is a community staple, offering live music and a diverse beer garden menu. Their craft cider selection is noteworthy, alongside barbecue platters.

In Glenfield, Little Creatures Brewery brings Australian influences with hop-forward beers and wood-fired pizzas. The lively space hosts events like beer-pairing dinners.

Takapuna's The Commons is a rooftop bar with panoramic views, serving innovative cocktails and small plates. It's a hotspot for after-work crowds.

Finally, Northcote's Little French Pastry Café morphs into a wine bar by night, offering French-inspired aperitifs and pastries.

These venues represent the North Shore's dynamic food and drink scene, where innovation meets tradition. As 2025 unfolds, expect more pop-ups, collaborations, and sustainable initiatives to elevate the experience. Whether you're a local or visitor, this hit list ensures your culinary journey is unforgettable, celebrating the region's diversity and creativity in every bite and sip. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full The New Zealand Herald Article at:
[ https://www.nzherald.co.nz/viva/food-drink/the-north-shores-best-restaurants-bars-your-2025-food-drink-hit-list/CAHMKRRWR5GNZHKZCF7WLWQJOA/ ]