Only a short, 10-minute ferry ride from Britomart, Devonport feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of central Auckland. A quaint, peaceful spot with plenty to keep you busy, here you’ll find stunning natural attractions alongside a bustling village with plenty to offer on the food and drink front.
Dulcie
This Melbourne-inspired all-day eatery serves some of the most elevated brunches in Auckland, alongside delicious lunchtime fare, overlooking the water from a beautiful 1920s building. From celeriac gratin, with mushrooms, charred broccolini, harissa, and pistachio, to a breakfast sandwich with a pork + fennel pattie, steamed egg, smoked provolone, and dill aioli in an English muffin, there you’ll find a truly unique spin on the classics — and tasty coffee and a glass of bubbles to wash it all down with.
Danryu Japanese Seafood Restaurant
For seafood lovers, paradise is found at Devonport-based Danryu — a Japanese eatery specialising in seafood. From sushi to sashimi, and all manner of fish and shellfish (including fresh oysters), as well as plentiful options for vegetarians, this authentic eatery packs a punch, and is sure to surprise and delight even the most discerning of diners.
Vondel
With a philosophy that everyone should be able to eat well, no matter their culinary preferences, Vondel serves utterly delicious fare for carnivores and plant-based eaters alike. The Devonport-based restaurant is owner-operated, open for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks, and focuses on seasonal fare from local suppliers.
Buona Sera
Usually fully booked and brimming with locals, Buona Sera is Devonport’s go-to Italian joint — serving authentic fare on the main street for almost two decades. Utilising fresh ingredients to produce delectable, classic flavours, Buona Sera is a slice of Italy in the heart of Devonport township, and the perfect place to come together with friends and family (they cater exceptionally well to minis) over great food, for an authentic dining experience.
Yaza Gelato
Touted as some of the best gelato in town, Yaza Gelato not only serves hearty scoops in all manner of flavours, with waffles and sweet treats to pair, but, come Thursday and Friday from 5.30—8.30pm, Ma Vá Pizza is on offer here too. With an Italian on the tools, and a light, airy crust (not to mention an epic array of toppings) these pizzas are not to be missed — and perfect for an al fresco picnic dinner come summer.
Cafe Hung Viet
Turning out fantastic, authentic Vietnamese food in the heart of Devonport, Cafe Hung Viet is one of the city’s hidden gems. With chefs hailing from Hanoi, the fare is a take on Hanoian classics. Here, the beef phở is exceptional, brimming with fragrant, fresh herbs and paper-thin strips of tender rare beef. The Vietnamese locals also specialise in the classic bánh mì, where chicken liver pâté is paired with either crisp pork belly, grilled chicken or lemongrass tofu, topped with fresh chilli and coriander. Outstanding.
Signal Hill
A modern bar and eatery in an iconic setting, Signal Hill serves up classic New Zealand fare with an extensive drinks list, in one of Devonport’s most striking historic homesteads. As the oldest existing house in Devonport, the now-restaurant boasts more than a century’s worth of intrigue, and is the perfect place to perch for casual drinks and a bite.
Flying Rickshaw
Touted by our Digital Director as some of the best Indian in Auckland, Flying Rickshaw specialises in authentic, time-honoured Indian cuisine bursting with flavour. From your go-to dishes to something a little more adventurous, this laid-back local ticks all the boxes — and caters well to mini diners too. Dine in, or grab and go — parking up at one of the beachside tables for an open-air feast. Either way, order enough for next-day leftovers.
Vic Road Wine Bar
Sister to the always-popular Vic Road Kitchen, this wine bar iteration is a concept simplified; good wines, simple snacks and convivial company. Where this venue is making its mark is the wine list, serving an ever-changing array of interesting and inspired drops alongside an impressive retail range. Or, if wine’s not your thing, that’s cool — choose from the extensive beer list, and grab a selection of tapas to enjoy out back in the courtyard.
Lily Eatery
Tucked away on Devonport’s Wynyard Street, a stone’s throw (practically) from the water, sits Lily Eatery — one of the area’s go-to drop-ins for a delicious breakfast or lunch. From the simple, sophisticated menu to the mouthwatering cabinet, here, seasonal and bright ingredients take centre stage, and with a number of dairy- and gluten free options, there’s something for everyone.
Tiny Triumphs
A favourite amongst locals, this pint-sized bar in the village is a go-to haunt for those that live in the area. With an epic selection of craft beer, an eclectic mix of live music, and an ever-welcoming and community-centric vibe, Tiny Triumphs is the perfect spot to soak up the best of Devonport’s laid-back vibe.
Chateaubriant
Chateaubriant is one of Devonport’s best kept secrets — an authentic blend of hand-crafted French and Kiwi-inspired delicacies, from authentic, French recipes passed down through generations to reinvented kiwi classics. Locals also swear by the Friday take-home dinners, running the gamut from French favourites to Chinese cuisine and a veritable spectrum in between — perfect for ordering ahead of time and picking up on your way to a beach picnic or to enjoy in the park on a sun-soaked evening.
