Nestled just behind bustling Karangahape Road, Bar Magda has long been synonymous with culinary mastery, providing a cosy ambience that transports guests away from the busy city streets. Its intimate setting coupled with its unique menu that explores Aotearoa’s seasonal produce through a Filipino lens has made Bar Magda one of our favourite dining destinations, and with an exquisite new private dining menu on the table, the experience here has just become a whole lot better.

Bar Magda’s exclusive private dining room is a sanctuary of elegance capable of accommodating up to 25 seated guests (or if extended into the bistro, 30-50 guests, depending on the type of event). Thoughtfully and comfortably furnished, this secluded enclave is the perfect choice for corporate soirées or special celebrations like birthdays, where guests can enjoy Bar Magda’s impeccable service and indulge in the finest cuisine, knowing that every detail has been meticulously curated to to meet expectations.

Alongside the exclusivity of the private dining room, Bar Magda also offers a range of versatile spaces for larger gatherings. The bar dining area, for instance, exudes an atmosphere of semi-private intimacy and comfortably fits up to 30 guests for a seated dinner. Meanwhile, the bar area is ideal for casual drinks and delectable snacks and can accommodate up to 40 guests seated, or 60 for a standing cocktail party. Combined, the venue can host up to 65 guests seated, and 120 people standing, ensuring a delightful balance between elegance, exclusivity and conviviality. The eatery is also now offering AVP with a separate speaker for more corporate-style work dinners, or events with digitalised programs intended.

Of course, larger groups of 10 to 20 can still book big tables at Bar Magda (perfect for events that don’t require an entirely private space) for which they can choose from the restaurant’s myriad set menus. The very reasonably priced $85 four-course sharing style menu with dessert is a great option, or add welcome bubbles to the four-course feast for just $100 per person. There is also a $75 three-course sharing style menu without dessert, and a $90 three-course set menu with welcome bubbles.

When it comes to the food, Bar Magda unsurprisingly shines. Here, the large-format sharing menus promise a tantalising journey for the senses, with familiar Magda favourites on offer such as the tartare of wild venison, the famed Magda Salad, charcoal steak with soy butter, and raw tuna and grilled pork with soured cream and nashi pear.
So, whether it’s an intimate gathering in the private dining room, a corporate affair in one of the versatile spaces, or a leisurely experience with a group of friends, Bar Magda will transport its diners to another world. From its exceptional cuisine to its intimate setting to its meticulous attention to detail, Bar Magda is truly a hidden gem in Auckland’s dining scene, and continues to exceed expectations, every time.