Iconic Auckland Eats: A Celebration of Flavour, Culture, and Community
Auckland—Tāmaki Makaurau—is not only New Zealand’s largest city, it’s a vibrant hub of culinary creativity. With its diverse population, Pacific influences, and deep Māori roots, the city’s food scene is as exciting as it is varied. The annual Iconic Auckland Eats list is a testament to this. Now in its fifth year, the list is created by public nominations and showcases 100 dishes that locals and visitors alike simply can’t stop talking about.
Every dish on the list tells a story. Some are nostalgic Kiwi classics, others are bold newcomers that reflect Auckland’s ever-evolving food identity. Here’s a look at what makes these eats truly iconic.
A few dishes have featured every year since the list began in 2020, and for good reason. The strawberry lamingtons from Sugar at Chelsea Bay are one such legend—pillowy sponge dipped in raspberry icing, rolled in coconut, and packed with flavour and memory. Depot’s fish sliders are another perennial favourite: crisp, salty, and full of punch, they’re a staple of Auckland’s food culture.
These dishes are more than just tasty—they’re comforting, familiar, and uniquely tied to Auckland’s spirit.
Flavours of a Diverse City
Auckland is home to over 200 ethnicities, and its food scene reflects that rich tapestry. Malaysian cuisine is celebrated with dishes like Nasi Campur from Agak Agak and Nasi Lemak Bungkus from Ailimteh. Japanese influences shine in Volcano Sushi Rolls at Azabu and raw fish on toast at Duo.
You’ll also find Māori flavours reimagined in modern fine dining—pāua tortellini at Ohui is a standout, as is tuna hūhunu served at Ahi. Eden Noodles’ spicy dumplings, the charcoal steak with soy butter at Bar Magda, and the peanut butter mousse pie from a Grey Lynn bakery all highlight the boldness and creativity pulsing through the city’s kitchens.
From beef cheek and cheese pies to crayfish éclairs and fluffy honey toast, the list celebrates both high-end elegance and humble comfort.
Seafood That Tells a Story
Auckland’s connection to the ocean runs deep, and that’s clearly reflected in the Iconic Eats list. Around a fifth of the dishes celebrate kaimoana—seafood—and include everything from prawn tacos and sashimi to freshly shucked mussels and crayfish specials. These dishes not only showcase freshness and flavour but also connect diners to the local landscape.
Dishes like pāua tortellini and tuna hūhunu are more than meals—they’re expressions of identity, culture, and storytelling through food.
Food That Feels Like Home
Some of the most-loved dishes are the simplest. Think Kiwi onion dip—made from a humble can of reduced cream and a packet of onion soup mix—which has long been a staple at parties and picnics. Mince on toast is another classic, comforting dish often debated as one of New Zealand’s most iconic.
Hearty pies are everywhere on the list, with creative fillings like braised beef short rib, steak and jalapeño, or slow-cooked cheek with cheese. These warm, flaky parcels are more than a quick bite—they’re a source of pride and joy across the region.
And when it comes to sweets, you can’t go past pavlova, hokey pokey ice cream, or a perfectly balanced lamington. These desserts are symbols of celebration, family gatherings, and Kiwi tradition.
Where to Go on Your Iconic Eats Trail
Iconic Auckland Eats isn’t just a list—it’s an invitation to explore. Food lovers can make their own trail across the city, stopping in at local gems and neighbourhood favourites.
In Britomart and the Viaduct, enjoy modern bites and inventive cocktails. Karangahape Road is packed with bold street food, cool fusion dishes, and late-night energy. In Parnell, honey toast and artisan pastries take centre stage. And further afield, hidden gems in Morningside, Mount Eden, and Sandringham serve up everything from charcoal lamb skewers to traditional South Indian dosas.
The list is a treasure map for curious eaters—every dish comes with its own story, community, and place.
Why These Dishes Matter
More than 3,000 people submitted nominations this year, and every dish on the list earned its place through love and loyalty. The stories behind them are as rich as the flavours themselves—memories of first dates, long family lunches, or late-night snacks after gigs.
Some comments are heartfelt, others hilarious. One fan described Bar Magda’s steak with soy butter by saying, “I could bathe in that sauce.” Another praised a bakery’s lamingtons as “better than Nan’s”—a bold but clearly heartfelt claim.
Whether it’s a five-star experience or something from a humble caravan, the dish must feel meaningful. That’s what makes it iconic.
The 2025 Highlights
This year’s list included 77 new dishes and welcomed 39 new food businesses. The evolution of Auckland’s food scene is palpable, with creative flavour combinations, clever presentations, and a focus on local produce.
Still, the two dishes that have appeared on every list—the lamingtons and the fish sliders—remind us that even as trends change, some classics never go out of style.
Tips for Tasting Your Way Through the List
Plan your food adventures by neighbourhood—pick a few places to explore each weekend. Share dishes with friends so you can try more. Don’t overlook food trucks and market stalls—many of the best bites come from small, passionate vendors.
And if a dish captures your heart (and taste buds), don’t forget to nominate it for next year’s list.
Final Bite
Iconic Auckland Eats is more than a list. It’s a living, breathing reflection of Auckland’s people, places, and palate. Each bite tells a story, connects communities, and captures the spirit of Aotearoa’s biggest city.
Whether you’re a visitor discovering the city for the first time or a local looking to revisit old favourites, this list is your invitation to taste your way around Tāmaki Makaurau. From Lamingtons to raw fish toast, dumplings to crayfish éclairs—get ready for a flavour-filled adventure through one of the world’s most exciting food cities and come and do it with us!
