Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, is a culinary paradise that offers a diverse array of dining options for every palate and budget. As a food lover always on the lookout for delicious eats without breaking the bank, I was thrilled to explore Auckland’s vibrant food scene during my recent trip. From trendy cafes to hidden gems, I discovered some amazing restaurants that cater to budget-conscious diners. Here’s my guide to the must-visit eateries in Auckland that won’t put a dent in your wallet but will certainly satisfy your cravings.
1. Federal Delicatessen: A Deli with a Twist
Location: 7 Federal Street, Auckland Central
How to Get There: Federal Delicatessen is located just a short walk from the Sky Tower in the heart of Auckland’s CBD. I found it easily accessible, and after spending time at the tower, I strolled over for a hearty lunch.
Atmosphere and Experience
Upon entering Federal Delicatessen, I was immediately struck by its retro vibe. The decor has a charming vintage feel, with teal walls, black and white tiled floors, and an old-school deli counter that evokes nostalgia. The bustling atmosphere made it a great place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the local scene.
Menu Highlights
The menu is a delightful blend of American deli classics and Kiwi favorites. I couldn’t resist trying their famous Reuben sandwich, packed with tender corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and their house-made Russian dressing. Priced at around NZD 18, it was a hearty portion that left me satisfied. The crispy fries on the side were the perfect accompaniment, seasoned to perfection.
For breakfast or brunch, their bagels and lox are a must-try, and they also offer a variety of vegetarian options. The prices here are very reasonable, making it an ideal spot for a casual yet delicious meal.
Personal Insights
I enjoyed the friendly service and the sense of community among the patrons. It’s a popular spot, so there was a bit of a wait during lunch hours, but it was worth it. I recommend visiting during off-peak times if you want to avoid the crowds.
Booking Information
While you can walk in without a reservation, it’s a good idea to check their website for any special events or menu changes. You can also find their full menu online, which includes some great deals for breakfast and lunch specials.
2. La Zeppa: A Taste of Spain in the Heart of Auckland
Location: 22 Sale Street, Freemans Bay
How to Get There: La Zeppa is conveniently located near the Victoria Park area, just a short walk from the bustling Queen Street. I found the area lively and full of character, making it an enjoyable walk to the restaurant.
Atmosphere and Experience
La Zeppa has a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere, featuring an outdoor terrace and indoor seating that creates a relaxed yet energetic vibe. The rustic decor, with its wooden tables and fairy lights, makes it an inviting space to share plates with friends.
Menu Highlights
This restaurant specializes in tapas, and the prices are incredibly budget-friendly. I ordered a selection of dishes to share, including the patatas bravas (NZD 12), which were perfectly crispy with a spicy aioli, and the chorizo with honey (NZD 16), which had a delightful sweet and savory combination.
The highlight was definitely the pork belly sliders (NZD 14), which were tender and bursting with flavor. The portions are generous, and sharing is encouraged, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes without spending too much.
Personal Insights
La Zeppa also has a great drinks menu, featuring local wines and creative cocktails. I enjoyed their signature sangria, which was refreshing and perfectly complemented the food. The ambiance is perfect for a casual evening out with friends or a cozy date night.
Booking Information
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, as it can get quite busy. You can easily book a table through their website or call ahead to secure your spot.
3. The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery: Farm-to-Table Freshness
Location: 1 Federal Street, Auckland Central
How to Get There: Located close to Aotea Square, I found The Glass Goose easily accessible from the city center. It’s just a short walk from many popular attractions.
Atmosphere and Experience
The Glass Goose has a modern and stylish interior, with a spacious outdoor area that is perfect for enjoying a sunny day. The large windows let in plenty of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Menu Highlights
This eatery prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, and their menu reflects the season’s best offerings. I decided to try their classic fish and chips (NZD 19), which featured fresh fish caught that day, served with crunchy chips and homemade tartar sauce. The portion was generous and the fish was perfectly cooked, flaky and golden.
Another standout was the mushroom risotto (NZD 22), which was creamy and rich, topped with fresh herbs. The prices here are very reasonable for the quality of food and portion sizes, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Personal Insights
The service was attentive, and the staff were knowledgeable about the menu, offering great recommendations. I appreciated the farm-to-table concept and felt good about supporting local producers.
Booking Information
You can book a table online through their website, which is highly recommended for dinner, as they tend to fill up quickly. They also offer a lunch special that changes weekly, so be sure to check their menu for updates.
4. The Depot Eatery: Casual Dining with Local Flavors
Location: 86 Federal Street, Auckland Central
How to Get There: Just a short walk from the Sky Tower and Aotea Square, The Depot is conveniently located for those exploring central Auckland. I found it to be a prime spot for a delicious meal after a day of sightseeing.
Atmosphere and Experience
The Depot has a casual and lively atmosphere, with communal seating that encourages a friendly dining experience. The open kitchen adds to the vibrant feel, allowing diners to see the chefs at work.
Menu Highlights
Their menu focuses on fresh, local produce, and the prices are very budget-friendly. I tried the famous Depot fries (NZD 9), which were served with a delicious aioli. I also ordered the blue cod tacos (NZD 20), which were filled with fresh fish, cabbage slaw, and a zesty sauce. The tacos were bursting with flavor and were a generous portion.
For dessert, I couldn’t resist the homemade ginger crunch (NZD 8), which was the perfect sweet ending to my meal. The prices are very reasonable, and the quality of the food is outstanding.
Personal Insights
I loved the communal dining concept, as it created a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff were friendly and eager to share their knowledge of the menu, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
Booking Information
No reservations are required for lunch, but it’s advisable to book ahead for dinner, especially on weekends. You can easily make a reservation through their website.
5. Sweet Mother’s Kitchen: A Slice of Southern Comfort
Location: 6 Victoria Road, Devonport
How to Get There: Sweet Mother’s Kitchen is located in the charming suburb of Devonport, just a short ferry ride from Auckland’s CBD. I took the ferry from the Downtown Ferry Terminal, which was a scenic 12-minute ride.
Atmosphere and Experience
This quirky eatery captures the essence of Southern comfort food, with colorful decor and a welcoming atmosphere. The walls are adorned with art and photographs, adding character to the space.
Menu Highlights
The menu is a delightful mix of New Orleans-inspired dishes. I ordered the jambalaya (NZD 24), which was packed with flavor and generous portions of chicken and sausage. I also tried their cornbread (NZD 6), which was moist and delicious.
For dessert, the pecan pie (NZD 10) was an absolute must-try. It was rich, nutty, and the perfect sweet treat to end my meal. The prices here are very affordable, especially considering the generous portion sizes.
Personal Insights
The service was friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home. I loved the relaxed vibe, which made it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring Devonport.
Booking Information
While you can walk in without a reservation, I recommend checking their website for any special events or live music nights, as they often host local bands. Making a reservation for larger groups is also advisable.
6. BurgerFuel: A Gourmet Fast-Food Experience
Location: Multiple locations throughout Auckland, including 1 Victoria Street West
How to Get There: With multiple locations across the city, I chose the one near my accommodation. It’s conveniently located within walking distance from several popular attractions.
Atmosphere and Experience
BurgerFuel offers a unique fast-food experience with a focus on gourmet burgers. The decor is modern and vibrant, creating a fun atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual meal.
Menu Highlights
Their menu features a wide variety of burgers, including vegetarian and vegan options. I opted for the classic Beef Burger (NZD 13.90), which was made with high-quality ingredients and bursting with flavor. The handmade patties and fresh toppings made all the difference.
I also tried their sweet potato fries (NZD 6), which were crispy and flavorful. For dessert, I indulged in their milkshake (NZD 8), which was thick and creamy, providing the perfect sweet treat.
Personal Insights
The service was fast and friendly, which is perfect for those on the go. I loved the unique burger combinations and the emphasis on quality ingredients, making it stand out from typical fast-food chains.
Booking Information
No reservations are needed, making it a convenient stop for a quick and satisfying meal. You can check their website for seasonal specials and new burger offerings.
Auckland is a city bursting with culinary delights, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover so many incredible dining options that cater to budget-conscious food lovers like myself. From the hearty sandwiches at Federal Delicatessen to the vibrant tapas at La Zeppa, each restaurant offered a unique taste of Auckland’s diverse food scene. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, these eateries are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.