With April’s arrival and the packed calendar of holidays that come with it, there seems to be no end to the delicious, enticing happenings taking place on our local dining scene. And while you may be making the most of the holidays and heading out of town (we’ve got you covered there, too), our April Dining Guide showcases just how tasty Auckland is looking for anyone sticking around. From exceptional new menus to indulgent high teas, and the new openings worth checking out, we’ve got the intel on exactly what to book for the month ahead.
BYO at Bar Magda
We’ve said it once but we’ll say it again, if you haven’t paid Bar Magda a visit yet, you’re seriously missing out. Giving us yet another reason to add this new wave Filipino spot to our dining plans, Bar Magda offers BYO on Sunday and Monday nights, with a corkage fee of $15 per person. Or, for diners opting to enjoy the four-course Magda Feast (which is hard to pass up), you can bring your own wine to enjoy in the eatery’s cosy dining room free of charge. Larger groups can also BYO any night but Friday and Saturday, with the same corkage fee per head.
Pay Three Lamps Newcomer Edie’s a Visit
Taking over the beloved Annabel’s space, Edie’s Wine Bar brings a slice of Europe to Ponsonby with an intimate, inviting café and wine bar. Helmed by chef-owner Charlie Lodge, Edie’s is a celebration of fresh, local produce and timeless hospitality. By day, expect house-made focaccia sandwiches and sweets; by night, a curated wine list and classic bar fare. Named after Charlie’s daughter, Edie’s is a true family affair — think wine tastings, Sunday supper clubs, and live jazz. This much-anticipated neighbourhood spot is set to become a warm, convivial gathering place.
Goat’s New Autumn Menu
As autumn settles in, GOAT — from India with Love, unveils a bold new menu that delves deeper into India’s rich culinary heritage. This season’s highlights include the molten, street-style Kaladi Kulcha, the regal Malai Pasanda with Beef Rump, and the crisp, flavour-packed Keema Kachori. Slow-braised Nizami Dum ka Gosht and the vibrant Ruby Kofta round out the lineup. Each dish is a tribute to tradition, reimagined with depth and warmth — perfect for the cooler months ahead.
Park Hyatt’s Autumn High Tea
Celebrate the season with Autumn High Tea at The Living Room, available from 6th March — 1st June. Crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Callum Liddicoat, this exquisite five-course experience showcases the finest autumnal flavours. Indulge in delicate savouries like Wagyu brioche and agedashi tofu, followed by decadent sweets including a passionfruit caramel dome and dark chocolate roulade. Complete the experience with freshly baked burnt vanilla scones and spiced apple madeleines. A refined, seasonal treat, available for $80 per person.
Aotearoa High Tea at The Hotel Britomart
Executive Chef Andrew Lautenbach has crafted a menu inspired by his childhood favourites, featuring three courses of seasonal, sustainably sourced treats. Enjoy a glass of No1 Family Estate Assemblé and tea from Zealong, New Zealand’s only commercial tea estate, in the elegant, heritage-filled setting of The Libraries. Priced at $95 per person, this exclusive event is set to take place on Saturday 12th April at 12pm, with two additional dates in May.
Quick Fire Lunch at Esther
Ignite your lunchtime ritual with Esther’s new Quick Fire Lunch — a two-course Mediterranean feast, fired over coals and flames. From smoke-kissed kingfish crudo to charred pork chops and ember-roasted cauliflower, every bite is infused with flavour and intensity. Available Wednesday —Friday, 12 – 3pm, from $39 per person, with a wine of the day for $11.
Steak Night at The Brit
Sink your teeth into 250g of Hurunui rump steak, served with shoestring fries and gravy for just $25 — every Wednesday from 6pm at The Brit. If you’re looking to level things up, four house-made sauces are available as an add-on, and drink specials are always running.
Grab a Sandwich at Fitzroy Deli
Fitzroy Deli brings a fresh take on the sandwich scene, inspired by Melbourne’s diverse deli culture and refined over nearly three years. Every sandwich is a considered creation, featuring house-baked schiacciata, premium cured meats sliced to order, and cheeses worthy of a board. The menu highlights include brisket, smoked chicken, and bold flavour combinations like gilda salsa and nduja mayo. Designed for busy professionals, the space balances fun and sophistication, offering a moment of escape. Thoughtfully designed by Millé, with a fit-out by CMP Interiors, it’s a polished yet welcoming retreat.
New Dishes at The Grill
The Grill’s new seasonal menu brings fresh flavours to the table, featuring standout dishes like Chicken Kiev and a decadent Whittaker’s Chocolate dessert with hazelnut and beef fat caramel. Enjoy these mouthwatering creations while taking advantage of the persistent sunny weather in their inviting outdoor dining space.
Daily Wine Tastings at The Barrel Room
If your Easter plans include a trip down south, explore Central Otago’s finest with an Ayrburn wine tasting in The Barrel Room — the precinct’s subterranean retreat surrounded by 56 wine barrels. Hosted daily, every hour from 11am–5pm, this immersive experience unveils the stories behind each pour for just $30 per person. Book now and discover your new favourite drop.
New Dishes to Try at Somm Wine Bar & Bistro
Somm’s autumn menu is here, bringing bold flavours and seasonal indulgence. Try Kashmiri chicken skewers with mint yoghurt, a vibrant peppers pizza on 72-hour poolish dough, fried cauliflower with sticky chilli jam, or the delectable grilled market fish with butternut purée, nashi pear, and pumpkin seeds — best paired with a crisp wine while soaking up the incredible views.
$8 Thursdays at Bar Magda
Bar Magda’s Thursday D8 Night is here — offering $8 bites and drinks from 5 — 7pm. Indulge in parmesan custard with focaccia, spicy tuna toast, BBQ chicken skewers, and more, paired with a refreshing Blueberry Spritz — each just $8. A perfect excuse for date night or post-work drinks, all in Bar Magda’s intimate, moody setting.
Bivacco’s Autumn Ladies Lunch
Long lunches just got better — Bivacco’s Ladies Lunch is back, serving a three-course feast for $49, including a Hendrick’s cocktail, prosecco, or margarita. Available Saturdays, 11am — 3pm, indulge in dishes like salmon crudo, wood-fired bavette steak, and meringue with summer berries. Chic, social, and seriously delicious — gather the girls and book now.
Check Out Newly-Opened Kinfolk
Kinfolk is a local café born from the vision of Gloria and Logan, hospitality veterans with a passion for creating community-centered spaces. After years in the industry, they saw a gap in Long Bay for a café offering top-notch brunch and coffee. Kinfolk blends house-made baked goods, fresh salads, and standout dishes like eggs benedict on savory waffles and house-made gnocchi. With exceptional coffee from Coffee Supreme and specialty options, the café offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere focused on quality food, beverages, and service, making it an instantly beloved neighbourhood gathering spot.
Rosé Month at Soul Bar & Bistro
Celebrate all things rosé as Soul Bar & Bistro brings back its month-long soirée, running until April 17th. Sip on rosé-inspired cocktails from $19, indulge in Champagne specials, and don’t miss the Maison Vauron tasting on April 3rd, complete with canapés, aperitif, and a rosé tasting.
Golden Hour at Depot
Depot’s Golden Hour special, available daily from 5 — 6pm for $60 per person, offers a taste of Al Brown’s favourites. Enjoy three shared dishes, including trevally sashimi, wood-fired green-lipped mussels, and iconic snapper sliders, all paired with a glass of Church Road McDonald Series Chardonnay. Or, look to one of the other exceptional offerings available during SkyCity’s Golden Hour — from a true taste of Asia at Huami to Metita’s Pacific-inspired feast. A perfect start to the evening.
