At The Fishmarket Grill by Sanford, the concept is simple: bring fresh, high-quality fish directly from the fishmonger to the grill, with a focus on creating a memorable dining experience. As such, the menu is a celebration of all things seafood, with plenty of variety to tempt every taste — showcasing the true variety of Sanford’s local catch.
Sanford is New Zealand’s oldest fishing company, delivering the freshest, best quality catch to people locally and globally for 160 years. Situated in the historic Auckland Fish Market in Wynyard Quarter since 1923, their mission has always been to bring the ocean’s bounty to more people, and The Fishmarket Grill is a further extension of this ethos, offering premium seafood at accessible prices in a casual environment that invites exploration.
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Here, hungry punters can (unsurprisingly) find fresh fish grilled to perfection, whether it’s seared in fragrant garlic butter or cooked over the roaring flames — a display customers can witness via the grill window. The star of the show is The Fishmarket Grill’s take on ‘steak and chips’, with a variety of grilled fish steaks to enjoy alongside caper-salted fries and a side of seasonal salad.
There are also plenty of tasty small plates on the menu, all of which are brimming with flavour. From smoked fish pâté topped with crunchy pickles and served with freshly grilled sourdough to vibrant fish crudo with a creamy coconut sauce and crispy curry leaves, to the utterly indulgent grilled scampi with chilli garlic butter — a must try. There are a few more inventive options, from flavourful off-cuts like salmon bellies to more unique species like Toothfish and Orange Roughy.
You can also opt to simply browse the day’s catch at the fish monger, and select a fillet or whole fish which the team will drop straight onto the grill (for a modest additional cost). Add a side of caper salted chips and seasonal salad for $5, and you’ve got yourself a cost-effective, healthy, and entirely delicious feast.
Auckland Fish Market’s bar, The Wreck, is located just steps away from The Fishmarket Grill in the courtyard, offering a perfect place to kick back with a plate of fresh seafood and an ice-cold drink.
The vibe at the Auckland fish market is always buzzing with energy — whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s the ultimate seafood destination in the city. The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with something for everyone, and, with live music every weekend from 1 — 4pm, plus school holiday entertainment, it’s a perfect spot for families, friends, or even a solo seafood date. The Fishmarket Grill only adds to the locale’s allure, and presents a perfect opportunity to explore the local bounty — discovering new flavours along the way.
Opening hours:
Wednesday — Sunday, 12pm until 3pm
The Fishmarket Grill
22 Jellicoe St
Wynyard Quarter
Auckland
