Summer is finally, officially here, and with it comes a raft of delicious dining experiences that are set to help us slip into the festive season in style. From the city’s best happy hours to exceptional new openings, mouth-watering Christmas feasts, jazz evenings, lunchtime specials, sundown sessions, mental health mornings and more, here we present our definitive December dining guide.
A Taste of Morocco at Esther
Embark on a culinary escape to Casablanca with a three-course Moroccan feast that brings the Atlantic coast to the heart of Auckland at Esther. Part of the dining destination’s Food of the Sun series, this immersive lunch — taking place from 12 — 4pm on Saturday 14th December, celebrates bold flavours and coastal culture with dishes like za’atar flatbread, spiced kofta, and zesty lemon cake. Paired with an arrival cocktail, for $85 per person, take a decadent through Morocco’s vibrant cuisine, where every bite is a celebration.
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Broke Boy Taco, at Home
December is a busy month, and sometimes you just need a night at home with some great food — sans cooking (and dishes). Perfect, then, that viral culinary sensation Broke Boy Taco has partnered with DoorDash to bring their famous birria tacos, ramen, and cheese pulls directly to your door every Taco Tuesday. Chef Sean Yarbrough’s bold Mexican flavours, inspired by his time in San Francisco, have captivated a cult following, and now, you can skip the cues and indulge in some of the best food in town from the comfort of your home. Delicious.
Weekday Lunches at Bar Non Solo
Britomart favourite Bar Non Solo‘s workday lunch special makes it the ultimate spot for those seeking a mid-day escape. From Tuesday to Friday from 12 — 3pm, Bar Non Solo offers an unbeatable lunch special, featuring one of their famous dishes alongside a choice of wine, beer or spritz, all for a mere $25. Ideal for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal during their hectic workday, this express lunch deal is as suited for a quick catch-up amongst friends as it is for sharing with colleagues.
Noche Buena at Bar Magda
Join Bar Magda on Sunday 15th December 15, for Noche Buena — a festive Filipino-inspired Christmas feast honouring the late Lola Ludy’s legacy of generosity and hospitality. In collaboration with Bare Wine Imports and Nick Candy of Tincan Wine, the evening features a sumptuous spread paired with a beautiful bottle of Pinot Noir. Highlights include whole roasted chicken relleno, wild venison roulade, and saffron crab fat rice. Tickets are $90 (min. 4), and spaces are filling fast. Celebrate the season, Filipino style, at Bar Magda.
Bivacco’s Christmas Feast
Celebrate the festive season in style with Bivacco’s Christmas Feast, running Sundays from now until 22nd December. Indulge in a holiday spread featuring maple glazed ham, Big Glory Bay salmon, whole sirloin, and an abundance of fresh seafood. The dessert station delights with pavlova, boozy trifle, and traditional mince pies. Spaces are limited weekly, so book now to enjoy epic fare, Christmas-themed cocktails, champagne specials, live entertainment, and one of the most lively atmospheres in the city.
Festive Season at Gochu
With an array of dining options this summer season, from easy express lunches to set menus for gatherings of any and all sizes, Korean favourite Gochu isa destination worthy of your attention. The express lunch — perfect for a midday escape, offers five plates across two courses for a modest $39, while, if you’re seeking a lively locale for a festive gathering, the eatery’s five- or six-course set menus are a delight. Gochu can accommodate anything from a small gathering to a large, exclusive event, with either full hire (up to 80 guests), semi-private (14 to 24 guests), or half hire (up to 38 guests).
Aperitivo Hour at Bodega
Bodega, the New York-style deli by the team behind Parade and Rosalita’s, has quickly become a favourite on Auckland’s dining scene. Now open for aperitivo evenings, it offers a curated menu of share plates — think focaccia, prosciutto with house crisps, and beef croquettes — paired with spritzes, craft beers, and hand-selected wines. Available Thursday to Saturday from 4–7:30pm, Bodega is the perfect spot for casual drinks and bites in the sun with friends.
Aryeh Piha Reopens for the Summer
Aryeh Piha is reopening it’s doors for summer, welcoming diners back with extended hours, a refreshed menu, and new takeaway Fish & Chips — perfect for enjoying at Piha’s iconic black sand beach. Offering set menus, à la carte options, and the popular Wednesday Test Kitchens, as well as laid-back fish & chips, Aryeh is the ultimate summer destination for locals and day-trippers alike.
Christmas Markets at Ayrburn
Celebrate the festive season at the Ayrburn Christmas Markets on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th December, from 2–8pm at The Dell. Explore Ayrburn wines, deli treats, local fragrances, floral artistry, and more, with live music, a Santa’s Grotto, and face painting adding to the holiday cheer. Find unique gifts, enjoy festive indulgences, and wrap it all up at the dedicated gift-wrapping station. Don’t forget to pick your own Christmas tree — perfect for a magical celebration.
Dining for a Cause with DineAid
This festive season, over 60 restaurants across Aotearoa are joining the DineAid Christmas campaign to support City Missions nationwide. From now until 31st December, diners can add $2 to their bill or selected dishes, with 100% of funds aiding local food banks. Now in its 12th year, DineAid hopes to raise $80,000, providing crucial support during a time of increased need. This festive season, choose to dine at participating venues (a list of which you’ll find here), to help those in need this Christmas.
Gilt’s Martini Mondays
With its decidedly European slant, convivial vibe no matter the day, and delicious menu, Gilt is the perfect spot to while away a summer evening. Adding to our long list of reasons to visit are the elevated establishment’s Martini Mondays, where, from 11.30am ’til late, thirsty patrons can enjoy $15 martinis. Vesper, Gibson, French, Dirty — whatever your proclivity, Gilt has you well-satiated, ensuring every week is started in style.
A Festive Four-Course Feast at Trivet
Celebrate the season with Trivet’s exquisite four-course sharing menu, available for dinner throughout December (excluding the 25th, 26th, and 31st). Savour the finest local and international cuisine, crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative flavours by chef Wallace Mua and his clever team. Complemented by a glass of New Zealand Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling, this festive dining experience is the perfect way to indulge this holiday season. Spaces at $95 per person, and include four delicious courses and a glass of bubbles.
