World-class dishes only found in Auckland

Auckland’s dining scene is full of surprises — the kind that locals queue for and visitors remember long after they’ve left. Across neighbourhood eateries and fine dining experiences, you’ll find signature dishes that reflect the region’s cultural richness, culinary talent, and deep connection to place.

Some of these dishes have been formally recognised in the Iconic Auckland Eats collection. Others have built followings on word of mouth alone. All of them are uniquely Auckland — and well worth a detour.

Here are nine unforgettable dishes to try next time you’re in town.

Palusami Pie at Blue Rose Café, Sandringham

The Palusami Pie from Blue Rose Café is a flavour-packed tribute to Pacific Island cuisine. Think flaky golden pastry filled with corned beef and taro leaves slow-cooked in coconut cream. Hearty, homely, and made with pride, this pie speaks to the heart of Auckland’s Pasifika community — and has rightly earned its reputation as a must-try.

Their hangi pie has also previously featured on the Iconic Auckland Eats list. While you're there, pick up a Koko Samoa cupcake or ginger ninja slice to finish.

Crayfish Taco at MASU by Nic Watt, SkyCity

At MASU by Nic Watt, chef Nic Watt's modern Japanese robata dining is showcased in dishes like the unmissable crayfish taco. This signature offering features succulent crayfish paired with a spicy miso sauce, all nestled in a crispy shell. The combination delivers a blend of sweet and spicy flavours, capturing the essence of MASU's innovative approach to traditional Japanese cuisine. 

Corned beef steamed bun at Metita, SkyCity

Chef Michael Meredith’s Metita is one of SkyCity’s popular fine-dining hotspots, offering a thoughtful, modern take on traditional Pacific flavours. The corned beef steamed bun, topped with lardo and caviar, is emblematic of what Metita does best: celebrating nostalgia and culture through elevated, unexpected bites. We think this dish is definitely a future contender for icon status.

Fruit wood-roasted Peking duck at Huami, SkyCity

For an elevated take on a Chinese classic, head to Huami, where the fruit wood-roasted Peking duck is the undisputed hero of the menu. Roasted over fragrant fruit wood, the duck is served with crispy skin, soft pancakes and a selection of traditional condiments. Choose half or a whole as a great option for sharing.

Kina on toast at kingi, Britomart

You’ll find few dishes as uniquely Kiwi as kina on toast — and no one does it quite like kingi, the sustainably minded eatery inside The Hotel Britomart. Fresh sea urchin (kina) is delicately laid over house-baked bread, offering a briny, buttery bite of the ocean. In 2024 this dish was named a notable arrival on the Iconic Auckland Eats scene; it’s worth going along to experience why for yourself!

Lamb ribs pyanggang at Bar Magda, Karangahape Road

Tucked beneath the streets of K’Road, Bar Magda offers a modern Filipino dining experience that’s both bold and unforgettable. One dish that has remained a staple since opening is the lamb ribs pyanggang.

The lamb is marinated in a blackened coconut rub, grilled over coals for a smoky finish, and topped with a punchy green sambal and a tangle of fresh herbs. This standout has earned its place on the Iconic Auckland Eats list for the past two years, and it's easy to see why.​

If you’re exploring K’Road, check out these picks from Bar Magda’s chef, Carlo Buenaventura, with his favourite places to visit.

Te Matuku Oysters at The Oyster Inn, Waiheke Island

For an unforgettable taste of the Hauraki Gulf, take the ferry to Waiheke Island and order a dozen Te Matuku oysters from The Oyster Inn. Grown just around the corner in Te Matuku Bay, these oysters are plump, fresh, and full of clean ocean flavour. They’re best enjoyed on the Inn’s sunny verandah with a crisp local wine and a view of the water below.

Chef Josh Emett has shared some of his own top places to visit in Auckland, which includes more local Waiheke drawcards.

King crab pappardelle at Gilt Brasserie, Auckland CBD

Gilt Brasserie in Chancery Chambers is a modern-day bistro also from celebrated chef Josh Emett — and the king crab pappardelle is one of its most talked-about dishes. Fresh ruffled-edge pasta is paired with generous flakes of king crab, then coated in a silky brandy bisque sauce made from New Zealand scampi heads. A spoonful of crème fraîche and a scatter of herbs finish the dish, balancing richness with freshness.

As two folks who really know their flavours, explore more great dishes in Josh and Helen’s list of top Auckland picks.

King of Cones at Giapo, Auckland CBD

You can’t talk about iconic Auckland food without mentioning Giapo. While none of its extravagant ice cream creations have made the official Iconic Auckland Eats list (yet), the King of Cones remains one of the city’s most Instagrammed desserts.

More edible artwork than dessert, this towering gelato sculpture is around 70cm long, filled with ice cream, whipped cream, nuts and hazelnut spread, and is not for the faint hearted!

Ika Mata at Te Kaahu, Pullman Auckland Airport

Just because you’re near the airport doesn’t mean you have to settle for fast food. Te Kaahu, the signature restaurant at Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel, brings te ao Māori to the table with dishes like their signature ika mata — raw fish lightly cured in coconut panna cotta, dressed with citrus and pickled cucumber. Its light, fresh flavours make it one of Te Kaahu’s most raved about dishes.

Hungry for more?

These dishes offer just a glimpse into the creative, multicultural soul of Auckland’s food scene. 

Ready to explore more? Eat your way through the full Iconic Auckland Eats list and discover more of the region’s most celebrated dishes.