Warm up at these cosy bars and restaurants with fireplaces

There’s nothing like the inviting glow of a fireplace to convince you to get off the couch and head out on even the chilliest of Auckland days. And the best part is, you don’t need to escape to a mountain chalet to embrace comforting hygge vibes. From cosy corner bars to the city’s busiest social spots, we’ve discovered the coolest places to warm up. 

1. Kingi

Part of Hotel Britomart’s hospitality offering, you’ll find Kingi tucked away down Tuawhiti Lane, an inviting cobblestone alley that sets the scene for a pretty special dining experience.

Inside, the industrial-chic interiors of this heritage building are warmed up with a rustic open fireplace, an impressive 1500-piece recycled glass chandelier and swamp kauri bar. Not surprisingly, tables close to the fireplace are in hot demand (pun intended), so book ahead if you’re seeking somewhere toasty.

As the name might suggest, Kingi celebrates local, sustainably caught seafood. Open all day and evening, Kingi offers everything from a morning coffee or afternoon aperitivo to long lunches and dinners.

 

2. The Heke 

The Heke is a picturesque, laid back spot to warm up after a short trip across the water to Waiheke Island.

Conveniently on Waiheke’s main bus route, it’s an easy option to add to your island wining and dining itinerary. This is a family-friendly space with plenty to keep the kids entertained, while you relax next to the fire with one of The Heke’s well-known tasting flights. Whiskey connoisseurs in particular will want to make this a must-visit, with an on-site distillery and four premium drams to explore.

You’ll find a few flame-grilled options on the menu too, with a huge wood-fired grill and an Italian wood fired pizza oven serving up sizzling fresh fare.

 

3. The Vintry 

You’ll quickly melt away any winter blues with a trip to boutique wine bar, The Vintry Matakana, on Auckland’s northern outskirts.

Taste over 40 local wines from family-owned wineries within the region and pair your selection with bites from The Vintry’s tapas style menu. Settle in next to the gorgeous fireplace and enjoy views of the neighbouring farmers market and riverside, grab a drink before a visit to Matakana cinema, or while away a relaxed afternoon with a board game on the balcony. And if you’re still feeling hungry, big brother Matakana Market Kitchen downstairs has more on offer on their menu, too.

 

4. Stafford Road Wine Bar 

Stafford Road Wine Bar is proof that a good glass of red is best paired with plush armchairs and the crackle of burning logs. This corner bar is a favourite for Northcote Point locals and worth the short trip across the bridge for those in search of a warm and inviting spot for a mulled wine and charcuterie board.

It oozes rustic, old world charm, with much of the building’s heritage character carefully preserved. The wine bar is a date night go-to, ideal for pre-movie tapas before heading down the road to the historic Bridgeway Cinema.

 

5. Bellini Bar, Hilton 

Bellini’s suspended fireplace is the ideal centrepiece for a chill evening with friends, a business meeting over a bevvy or celebratory cocktails.

There’s something a little bit indulgent about Bellini’s plush interiors. And with floor-to-ceiling windows, you get front-row seats to Auckland’s waterfront views, without worrying about what the weather is up to outside.

While it’s situated on the ground floor of Hilton Auckland, Princes Wharf, anyone is welcome to stop by for a drink or bite off their menu.

 

6. Our Land 

Our Land has really nailed the brief with a perfectly cosy and curated ambiance that makes everyone feel at home. And with distinctly Aotearoa-inspired interiors that’s what this spot is about - celebrating all things great about this land we call home.

It’s giving alpine lodge vibes and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped off a city street straight into a mountain resort. Settle in among the leafy native greenery, beside the warmth of the courtyard’s outdoor fireplace and enjoy locally-inspired cocktails, New Zealand crafties and enticing bites with a Kiwi twist.

 

7. Fenice 

Forget European summer, we’ve got an authentic slice of Italy right on our doorstep. In the heart of Waiheke’s Oneroa village, Fenice serves up delicious Italian and Mediterranean flavours made with fresh, seasonal produce.

Jump on a bus from Matiatia ferry terminal and Fenice is just a 5-minute ride away. Bright blooms welcome you into this character-filled space, where you’ll find the roaring Fenice fireplace and, with a bit of luck, a pozzy right in front of it. Order a glass of your favourite Italian drop and a woodfired pizza and you’ll really be living la dolce vita.