Despite best intentions, it’s not every day that we have the time to enjoy a long, leisurely lunch. Fortunately, for occasions when quick and easy is the only option, some of our favourite spots in the city have tailored offerings for those in a time crunch. From express menus to lunch deals served in haste, we’ve rounded up where to find the very best quick yet satisfying midday fare that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Available: Friday, lunch
Offering: $55 for a main, a side and a glass of house wine (min 2 people, max 6 people)
This Ponsonby institution has long been a great choice for a casual but delicious workday lunch, and recently, the addition of a ‘Power Lunch’ (available exclusively on Fridays) has made weekday dining simpler than ever. Here, you’ll find an entree, main and a glass of house wine for $55, and the options are plentiful. As you’d expect, steak takes centre stage with four cuts to choose from, served alongside market fish, crumbed chicken, or vegetarian gnocchi and cult-status sides such as the crayfish mac ‘n’ cheese, duck fat roasted rosemary potatoes, the unforgettable signature creamed spinach, roasted beets with goats cheese and more. Bookings are encouraged.
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Available: Monday to Friday, 12pm — 1:30pm
Offering: $50 for an entree & a main or $60 with a house beer or wine; add dessert for $5
Here, in the heart of Downtown Auckland, this Britomart stalwart offers an Express Menu for those needing a good meal in the midst of a busy day. For $50, choose from a considered list of Ebisu’s most beloved, contemporary Japanese dishes, including the chef’s selection of fresh market sashimi or a tasty salmon avocado roll to begin, one of three hero mains to follow (the teriyaki chicken with truffle oil is our preference), and a delightful fresh sorbet to finish. A consistently failsafe crowdpleaser, we can’t look past Ebisu for a fantastic lunch in the city — express or otherwise.
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Available: Weekdays, 12pm – 2.30pm
Offering: $35 for a main and drink
In the heart of Britomart, Kingi’s Express Lunch offers a refined yet fuss-free midday meal, perfect for those short on time but unwilling to compromise on flavour. For $35, choose from a menu that distills the eatery’s signature approach to fresh, sustainable ingredients — think shellfish tagliatelle with a hit of nduja, a raw tuna Caesar that reimagines a classic, or a Wagyu steak flatbread that delivers indulgence without the heaviness. Paired with your choice of drink, it’s a swift yet satisfying way to experience Kingi’s considered fare.
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Available: Weekdays from 12pm
Offering: $38 for an entree & a main
Perched above the waterfront, Cāntīng’s Express Lunch brings bold, vibrant flavours to the midday rush. For $38 per person, enjoy a two-course selection that highlights the kitchen’s deft hand with modern Cantonese cuisine. Start with your choice of crisp spring rolls or delicate dumplings before moving on to a hero main — whether it’s the punchy bang bang chicken, succulent BBQ duck, or rich, slow-cooked Cantonese pork belly. Designed for efficiency without sacrificing flavour, it’s a quick yet indulgent escape from the working day.
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Available: Weekdays from 12pm
Offering: $39 comprising of four courses of small plates
If it’s a quick but delicious lunch you’re after, head down to Commercial Bay dining destination Gochu for an unmissable midday deal. From Monday to Friday, diners can discover a delicious Express Lunch menu for $39, comprising four courses of small plates with a rotating cast of dishes — all prepared in 30 minutes or under. Taking the idea of a quick bite and elevating it, Gochu’s new lunch offering is the perfect excuse to escape the office for a midday break.
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Weekday Schnitzel Available: Wednesday to Thursday, from 11:30am
Weekday Schnitzel Offering: $29 for Veal Schnitzel & a side
Minute Steak Available: Monday to Saturday, lunch
Minute Steak Offering: $26 for a 120g scotch with pomme frites & entrecôte sauce
Whether it’s a leisurely break or a quick bite between meetings, there’s a plate waiting for you at Gilt. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, a golden veal schnitzel takes centre stage, served with pomme purée, frites, or a fresh salad for $29. And, any day of the week, the minute steak offers a perfectly seared 120g scotch, crisp pomme frites, and rich entrecôte sauce for just $26. Pull up a bar stool or settle in for a working lunch — either way, it’s a sure to be satisfying pause in the day.
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