What mum actually wants for Mother’s Day (beyond the breakfast-in-bed attempt that leaves the kitchen looking like a crime scene) is a moment of genuine, uninterrupted stillness. SkyCity has built exactly that into one very generous package, and we’re giving it away to a lucky mother this May.
Grand Deluxe Room at The Grand by SkyCity
East Day Spa
The prize begins with a night in a Grand Deluxe Room at The Grand by SkyCity, parking included, because the last thing mum needs is to circle a building three times before her evening of calm begins. From there, East Day Spa’s two-hour Moment of Stillness treatment takes over. A full body Shanti massage designed around slow, rhythmic movement eases tension from places she didn’t know she was holding it, followed by the East Day Spa x Augustinus Bader Methode Facial, a pairing of advanced skincare, sculpting massage, LED therapy, and formulas that leave the skin looking genuinely restored rather than just temporarily dewy.
Left: Metita. Right: Cassia
Masu
Then there’s dinner (for two). A $250 dining credit at one of the award-winning restaurants located within The Grand by SkyCity, with the option to choose from Michael Meredith’s Metita, Sid Sahrawat’s Cassia, or long-time favourite MASU by Nic Watt. No kids’ menu negotiations, no compromises, just a properly good meal with good company in a room that matches the occasion. The following morning, breakfast for two, because even the most deserving solo escape benefits from someone to share the coffee with.
The total prize is worth over $1,000 and must be redeemed in full, Monday to Thursday. Which, frankly, only makes it better. A midweek night in a hotel with nowhere to be the next morning is the kind of luxury that money can’t quite replicate.
This Mother’s Day, treat mum to truly unforgettable experience combining rest, relaxation, and a necessary spot of indulgence. This giveaway is now closed.
Consider this your edit of the series and movies worth pressing play on now, from dark, psychologically driven dramas to slow-burn thrillers and quietly compelling character studies. From the iconic The Devil Wears Prada 2 to The Drama, alongside the latest releases and returning favourites already generating conversation, these are the shows setting the tone for what to watch now.
Movies
The Devil Wears Prada 2
When & Where to Watch: In NZ cinemas from 30 April Starring: Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci
Twenty years after the original, Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci all return to the offices of Runway magazine — joined by Kenneth Branagh, Simone Ashley, Lucy Liu and Lady Gaga, who contributes an original song. This time, Miranda Priestly faces a more existential crisis: keeping legacy media alive in a digital-first world. The teaser trailer broke records as the most-viewed comedy trailer in 15 years.
Project Hail Mary
When & Where to Watch:In cinemas now Starring: Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller, Milana Vayntrub, Ken Leung
Ryan Gosling stars as a schoolteacher who wakes alone on a spaceship with no memory and a mission to save Earth, in Phil Lord and Christopher Miller’s adaptation of Andy Weir’s beloved novel. Smart, funny, visually dazzling and surprisingly moving, it has the rare quality of making a cinema full of strangers feel something at the same time. Gosling has rarely been better, and the interstellar friendship at the film’s heart is one you won’t forget quickly. See it on the biggest screen you can find.
The Drama
When & Where to Watch: In cinemas now Starring: Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Alana Haim, Mamoudou Athie
Zendaya and Robert Pattinson star as a Boston couple whose wedding week is derailed by an unexpected confession during a drunken party game — one that neither can easily move past. Part dark comedy, part relationship thriller, part provocation, with two career-highlight performances and the kind of central dilemma that will follow you out of the cinema and straight into an argument with whoever you saw it with. You’ve been warned.
Lorne
When & Where to Watch: In cinemas now Featuring: Lorne Michaels, Tina Fey, Chris Rock, John Mulaney
Morgan Neville, the Oscar-winning director behind Won’t You Be My Neighbor? and 20 Feet from Stardom turns his lens on Lorne Michaels, the enigmatic creator of Saturday Night Live. Featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and candid interviews with Tina Fey, Chris Rock, Conan O’Brien, John Mulaney, Maya Rudolph, Kristen Wiig and Paul Simon, the film is less a revealing portrait than an immensely entertaining one — funnier than most comedies in cinemas right now, and a must for anyone who cares about how comedy gets made.
No Other Choice
When & Where to Watch: Rent or buy on Apple TV & Prime Video Starring: Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Park Hee-soon, Cha Seung-won
If you missed Park Chan-wook’s latest in cinemas, now is the time. A paper industry expert is fired after 25 years and, in a state of escalating desperation, begins eliminating his job competition — literally. Based on Donald Westlake’s novel The Ax, it holds a staggering 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, earned a standing ovation at Venice, and is somehow both one of the funniest and most unsettling films of the past twelve months. Lee Byung-hun is extraordinary. Essential viewing for anyone who has ever fantasised, even briefly, about dismantling the corporate ladder.
Mother Mary
When & Where to Watch: In NZ cinemas from 14 May Starring: Anne Hathaway, Michaela Coel, Hunter Schafer, FKA Twigs
David Lowery’s psychosexual pop thriller stars Anne Hathaway as an iconic pop star reuniting with her estranged best friend and former costume designer, played by Michaela Coel, on the eve of a comeback performance. With Hunter Schafer, FKA Twigs and Kaia Gerber rounding out a magnetic cast, and original music by Jack Antonoff and Charli XCX, it’s a strange, bewitching piece of filmmaking — the kind of A24 release you either surrender to completely or argue about for weeks. Already playing in the US; arrives in New Zealand cinemas in May.
Apex
When & Where to Watch: Netflix from 24 April Starring: Charlize Theron, Taron Egerton, Eric Bana
A survival thriller set in the Australian wilderness. A grieving woman on a solo adventure is ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse with a ruthless killer who thinks she’s prey. Directed by Baltasar Kormákur, who knows how to shoot landscapes and escalating tension in equal measure (Everest, Adrift). It’s the kind of taut, star-powered Netflix drop that justifies keeping the subscription — perfect for a rainy Auckland evening.
Michael
When & Where to Watch: In NZ cinemas from 22 April Starring: Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller
Antoine Fuqua’s musical biopic of Michael Jackson, starring the King of Pop’s nephew Jaafar Jackson in his film debut. The film traces Jackson’s journey from the Jackson 5 through the creation of Off the Wall, Thriller and Bad, with Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine, and Miles Teller as entertainment lawyer John Branca. Tracking suggests a record-breaking opening for a musical biopic — and regardless of where you stand on the man, the spectacle of the performances alone should be worth the ticket. Yellowstone.
Outcome
When & Where to Watch: Apple TV Starring: Keanu Reeves, Jonah Hill, Cameron Diaz, Matt Bomer
Keanu Reeves plays a beloved Hollywood star, five years sober, whose carefully rebuilt life is upended when a blackmailer surfaces with a career-ending video. Directed by Jonah Hill, who also co-stars as Reef’s crisis lawyer, it’s a dark comedy that’s sharply divided critics — but at a brisk 83 minutes and with Reeves turning in some of his most quietly affecting work, it’s worth a watch on a quiet evening.
Tv Series
Your Friends & Neighbours Season 2
When & Where to Watch: 3rd April, Apple TV Starring: Jon Hamm, Amanda Peet, Olivia Munn
Andrew Cooper (Hamm) doubles down on his life as an unlikely suburban thief, until the arrival of a new neighbour threatens to expose his secrets and place his family at risk.
Euphoria Season 3
When & Where to Watch: 13th April, Neon Starring: Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, Jacob Elordi
The long-awaited return after a four-year hiatus. Five years have passed for the former students of East Highland High, with Rue now in Mexico, Cassie and Nate engaged in the suburbs, and Jules navigating art school. Creator Sam Levinson has conceived the third season as a film noir.
The Boys Season 5
When & Where to Watch: 8th April, Prime Video Starring: Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr
The long-awaited return after a four-year hiatus. Five years have passed for the former students of East Highland High, with Rue now in Mexico, Cassie and Nate engaged in the suburbs, and Jules navigating art school. Creator Sam Levinson has conceived the third season as a film noir.
Margo’s Got Money Troubles
When & Where to Watch: 15th April, AppleTV Starring: Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer, Nicole Kidman, Nick Offerman
Based on Rufi Thorpe’s bestselling novel, this bold comedy-drama follows Margo, a college dropout and new mum — the daughter of an ex-Hooters waitress and ex-pro wrestler — who turns to OnlyFans to pay the bills. When her estranged father re-enters her life, his advice from the wrestling world proves unexpectedly useful. From David E. Kelley (Big Little Lies, The Undoing) and A24.
Beef Season 2
When & Where to Watch: 17th April, Netflix Starring: Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, Cailee Spaeny
Set at an elite country club, two young employees film an alarming fight between their boss and his wife — and ignite a blackmail war neither side can win. Fresh cast, same sharp writing.
Running Point Season 2
When & Where to Watch: 23rd April, Netflix Starring: Kate Hudson, Justin Theroux, Brenda Song
Isla Gordon is no longer the surprise choice to lead the Los Angeles Waves — she’s the one everyone is watching. With the franchise rebounding after last year’s scandal, Isla is determined to prove she’s not just keeping the seat warm for her brother Cam.
Young Sherlock
When & Where to Watch: Prime Video Starring: Hero Fiennes Tiffin, Dónal Finn, Zine Tseng
A fresh take on a familiar figure, Young Sherlock revisits the world’s most famous detective in his formative years. Less about polished deduction and more about curiosity and instinct, the series traces the early experiences that begin to shape the mind behind the legend.
The Madison
When & Where to Watch: Neon Starring: Michelle Pfeiffer, Kurt Russell, Matthew Fox
he series follows the Clyburn family, originally from New York City, who relocate to the Madison River valley of southwest Montana for emotional recovery following a life-changing tragedy. From Taylor Sheridan, the creator of Yellowstone.
Scarpetta
When & Where to Watch: Prime Video Starring: Nicole Kidman, Jamie Lee Curtis, Simon Baker
A sleek, psychologically driven crime drama, Scarpetta follows a brilliant forensic pathologist navigating a series of complex cases where science and instinct collide. Dark, atmospheric and quietly gripping, it leans into the intricacies of investigation while exploring the personal cost of living so close to death.
DTF St. Louis
When & Where to Watch: Neon Starring: Jason Bateman, David Harbour, Linda Cardellini
Provocative and unfiltered, DTF St. Louis dives into the complexities of modern relationships, intimacy and identity. Set against the backdrop of midwestern America, it’s a candid, often confronting exploration of connection in an era where nothing feels entirely straightforward.
Rooster
When & Where to Watch: Neon Starring:Steve Carell, Charly Clive, Scott MacArthur
Grounded and character-led, Rooster centres on a small-town figure navigating shifting loyalties and quiet tensions beneath the surface. With a slow, deliberate pace, it leans into mood and nuance, revealing the weight of community, reputation and personal history.
Paradise Season 2
When & Where to Watch: Disney+ Starring: Sterling K. Brown, James Marsden, Julianne Nicholson
Returning with greater scale and sharper stakes, Paradise builds on its first season with a deeper dive into power, control and the illusion of perfection. Sun-drenched on the surface but simmering underneath, it’s a continuation that promises more intrigue, tension and unexpected turns.
The Dinosaurs
When & Where to Watch: Netflix Starring: Morgan Freeman
Blending nostalgia with contemporary storytelling, The Dinosaurs reimagines prehistoric life through a modern lens. With sharp humour and unexpected emotional depth, it offers a playful yet thoughtful take on family, survival and the rhythms of everyday life, just set several million years earlier.
56 Days
When & Where to Watch: Prime Video Starring: Dove Cameron, Avan Jogia, Megan Peta Hill
Taut and twist-laden, 56 Days unfolds within the confines of a pandemic lockdown, where a seemingly chance romance quickly unravels into something far more sinister. What begins as an intimate two-hander evolves into a slow-burn thriller, peeling back layers of deception with each episode.
Imperfect Women
When & Where to Watch: Apple TV+ Starring: Elisabeth Moss, Kerry Washington, Kate Mara
Glossy on the surface but quietly unraveling beneath, Imperfect Women centres on three lifelong friends whose seemingly perfect lives are disrupted by a shocking crime. What follows is a slow-burn unpicking of friendship, loyalty and long-held secrets, where every revelation feels more personal than the last. Polished, tense and character-driven, it’s the kind of series that lingers well beyond its final episode.
High-contrast, monochromatic polka dots had their moment last summer, and rather than retreating with the warm weather, they’ve walked straight onto the AW26 runways. Carolina Herrera layered them into dropped-waist silhouettes, Dior rendered them in soft wool, and the print turned up across resort collections with a distinctly cooler-weather sensibility. Silk chiffon over tights, polka-dot trousers under tailored coats, a bow clip as the finishing note. The formula still holds: whimsy meets classic tailoring, Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, Claudia Schiffer circa ’95. What’s shifted is the styling. Think less sundress, more considered layering. Connect the dots, and wear them through the season.
For a decade, Chef Tam Tung has held a Michelin star at Yat Tung Heen, the acclaimed Cantonese restaurant at Eaton HK whose moody, 1920s Shanghai-inspired dining room has become one of Hong Kong’s most revered culinary destinations. His cooking draws on generations of Cantonese wisdom, balancing restraint with depth in a style that has earned recognition across the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau, the South China Morning Post’s 100 Top Tables, and a string of coveted industry accolades. Now, for four nights only, he is bringing that kitchen to Auckland.
From 29 April to 2 May, The Nightcar on Queen Street will host an exclusive pop-up dinner series in collaboration with Cathay Pacific, with Chef Tam Tung’s multicourse menu served across six intimate sittings. The Nightcar’s sophisticated, Chinese-inspired setting provides a fitting stage for the occasion, with dishes presented on signature Cathay Pacific trays as a nod to the airline’s long-standing culinary partnership with Yat Tung Heen.
left: Horopito Vodka and Pōhutukawa-aged curaçao cocktail Cumulus
The evening opens with a choice of signature drinks, from the Horopito Vodka and Pōhutukawa-aged curaçao cocktail Cumulus, to Cathay’s kiwifruit, coconut and fresh mint mocktail Cathay Delight. Then comes a Hot and Sour Seafood Soup, Chef Tam Tung’s Hong Kong-style interpretation of the Sichuan classic, followed by a Preserved Plum-Infused Three Treasures starter that balances sweet, tangy and fresh in equal measure. Mains present the kind of decision nobody wants to make: Stir-fried Seafood and Jade Melon with Yat Tung Heen’s iconic XO sauce, or Braised Beef Brisket and Tendon slow-cooked in rich, aromatic Chu Hou sauce. A golden Cantonese Sugar Puff and a selection of premium JING teas close the experience, with handcrafted Devonport Chocolates offering one final, welcome indulgence.
It is rare for a chef of this calibre to bring a menu of this pedigree to Auckland, rarer still at $60 per person. Book your tickets here.
Please note, this is a curated set menu featuring seafood and meat, and dietary requirements cannot be accommodated.
In case you missed the memo, 40 is the new 30, and as such, deserves a celebration that is equal parts revelrous and refined, with a wardrobe to match.
From dazzling diamonds to statement pieces with presence, glamorous gowns, and sophisticated suiting, here, we share an edit of what to wear to mark 40 with conviction.
What To Wear
Own the milestone — or celebrate someone else’s — in effortlessly polished looks that tread the line between bold, modern, and timeless.
There’s a reason the dining chair is the most unforgiving piece of furniture to design. It has to be comfortable enough for a three-hour dinner, light enough to pull back with one hand, strong enough to withstand years of daily use, and, ideally, worth looking at from every angle. The Otway Armchair by Kett manages all four with a kind of quiet confidence that doesn’t announce itself.
Defined by a gently curving solid ash frame, the Otway’s structure is both sculptural and purposeful. Rounded legs intersect to cradle the seat in a gesture that feels intuitively supportive, the kind of detail you notice the second time you sit down, when you realise you haven’t shifted once. Fine woodworking meets contemporary production here, resulting in a chair that is as enduring as it is elegant.
Upholstered in leather or fabric, it invites comfort without fuss. Stackable yet refined, it’s the rare dining chair that works equally well around a long oak table or pulled into a corner as a reading seat. This is a piece designed for unhurried evenings, the ones where conversation stretches well past dessert and nobody wants to be the first to stand up.
There are few design luminaries whose influence is as ubiquitous as that of Pierre Paulin. Known for his innovative work that revolutionised everyday furniture, Paulin’s hand has crafted some of the most iconic furniture designs in history. Many of his works, despite being released over half a century ago, remain as coveted today as they were then — a signifier of his unbridled vision.
Born in Paris in 1927, Pierre Paulin drew early inspiration from his two uncles, a vehicle designer and a sculptor, who instilled in him an early appreciation for the beauty of objects.
Initially studying ceramics in Vallauris, followed by stone carving in Burgundy, Paulin set out to become a sculptor, following in his uncle’s footsteps. After an injury derailed his plans, he enrolled at the École Camondo in Paris, where he joined the brilliant post-war furniture designer Marcel Gascoin’s workshop. Initially serving as an apprentice, he honed his craft and discovered an early interest in Scandinavian and Japanese design, before travelling to Scandinavia and the United States to begin a career in furniture design.
Pumpkin Armchair (left) from Ligne Roset and Mushroom Chair (right) both by Pierre Paulin
Eventually going on to become one of the most known masters of his field, Paulin’s early career saw him join the team at Dutch manufacturers Artifort, where he shot to global fame following the release of his Mushroom chair in 1960. His work, characterised by the prioritisation of comfort over aesthetics, stood out for its organic form and sculptural shape, changing the face of seating forever.
During the 70s and 80s, Paulin was invited to decorate and furnish several places of significance. Notably, the designer redecorated the living, dining, smoking, and exhibition rooms of the Elysée’s private apartments for Pompidou in 1971, conceiving, as part of the project, one of his most widely revered and iconic collections — his Pumpkin seating. Reissued in 2008 in collaboration with Ligne Roset, Paulin’s Pumpkin seating evokes, as the name suggests, an oversized pumpkin — drawing on its organic form to welcome the user with a protectively voluptuous shell.
Pumpkin armchair by Pierre Paulin from Ligne Roset
In a similar style, the Alpha sofa is a masterpiece of modern design originally conceived in 1970, defined by its sculptural silhouette and deep, enveloping comfort.
10 years after first joining forces with Ligne Roset (and nine after the designer’s death), the family-run company which seeks to preserve Paulin’s great legacy reissued three designs in 2018 with Roset: Bonnie, Gavrinis 3, and CM 131. The designer’s Bonnie seating was dreamt up in 1975 — a cocoon-like sculptural seat made of foam that hugs the body just so.
Another iconic design — only released following the designer’s death, the Dune Ensemble modular sofa is more a landscape than a piece of furniture, its undulating peaks and valleys adaptable to any space and lifestyle, empowering a home’s inhabitants to be the architects of their own space.
Dune Ensemble by Pierre Paulin
Paulin’s Groovy armchair epitomises Space Age design, its fluid, legless form — sculptural yet ergonomic, remains a coveted icon of mid-century avant-garde design. While his series of rugs explores organic abstraction, taking on a fluid, sculptural form, echoing the contours of a hand-drawn sketch.
Groovy Armchair by Pierre Paulin
Despite always shying away from the spotlight, today, Paulin’s legacy stretches far and wide. His work stands in the homes of some of the world’s foremost collectors, and his designs can be found in contemporary art and design collections around the world, from MOMA to the V&A and the Centre Pompidou in Paris, solidifying his standing as one of history’s most influential designers.
Pierre Paulin’s most iconic designs are stocked locally at Ligne Roset.
As the school holidays draw to a close, there’s a familiar parental brief: find somewhere that keeps the children entertained without dulling the adult experience. Easier said than done. Unless, of course, you book a table at Bravo at Cracker Bay.
Winton’s waterfront newcomer at Cracker Bay has quietly positioned itself as one of the most considered family dining destinations in the city. Not in a saccharine, soft-play sense, but in a way that feels genuinely intelligent.
Yes, there is an outdoor playground. But the real drawcard sits just inside, where a fully realised games room offers arcade options, from nostalgic classics to modern favourites. It is the sort of detail that shifts the entire dynamic of a meal. Children disappear into play. Parents exhale. And importantly, nothing else is compromised.
The menu remains firmly in grown-up territory, with seasonal, contemporary dishes and a strong showing of local seafood, alongside a thoughtful kids’ offering that goes beyond the predictable. The Ayrburn wine range is well represented, cocktails are confidently executed, and the setting, with its north-facing aspect over Westhaven Marina, does most of the heavy lifting as the afternoon slips into evening.
It is this balance that Bravo at Cracker Bay gets right. It does not pander, nor does it exclude. Instead, it understands that modern dining often involves multiple generations, each with their own expectations.
So, as the final days of the holidays tick down, consider this your answer. A long lunch that turns into an early dinner. A table by the water. Children are entertained without negotiation. A glass of something excellent in hand.
Everyone leaves happy. Which, in itself, feels like a small miracle.
Honey Springs, the new café in Onehunga, has the kind of interior that stops you mid-sentence. Terracotta floors, blush-pink cabinetry on rounded bubble feet, curved white countertops, and a retro Palm Springs palette that makes even a Tuesday morning feel like a holiday.
The menu matches the energy: generous, unpretentious, and built around the kind of brunch dishes that earn a loyal following fast. The soufflé Benny, fluffy pancakes piled with crispy bacon, fried eggs, and a cascading river of honey mustard hollandaise that pools across the plate like it owns the place.
The Flight delivers house-made potato waffles with Nashville chicken lacquered in sticky hot sauce, a fried egg with a yolk so orange it borders on theatrical, and a blanket of melted cheese. It is, by any reasonable measure, a lot. In the best possible way. The showstopper, though, is the signature Hokey Soufflé with hokey pokey cream noodles, golden maple ice cream, drizzled in delicious honey.
The cabinet deserves its own mention. Supplied by Kokoro Bakes, it is the kind of display case that derails even the most disciplined order. Glazed lemon cakes topped with citrus slices and pink petals, thick slabs of banana loaf with swirled cream cheese frosting and edible violets, and golden loaves crowned with blueberries and orange flower petals.
Drinks lean into the café’s namesake with honey-maple signatures (the Honey Maple Iced Latte with its cold foam is the one to order), a dedicated speciality matcha section with six options deep, and a Yuzu Tonic Espresso for the person who has already had their first coffee and simply wants another excuse to stay.
Opening hours: Monday –Friday, 7am to 3pm Saturday –Sunday, 7.30am to 3pm
Stretching on for 7.3km from Mount Eden to Mount Roskill, Dominion Road boasts an array of cafes and restaurants. And with so many options available, simply choosing one place to go is an almost impossible task. As such, we have rounded up a list of some of our favourites, whether you’re in search of a morning coffee, a lunchtime drop-in, or a delicious dinner and drinks.
Keep in mind, however, that while we’re sure you’ll find something you’ll like at one of the places we recommend, spontaneity and taking chances are two key factors to getting the most out of Dominion Road. So just as we underwent a process of trial and error, if you come across an off-the-beaten-track spot that you want to try, we encourage you to do so. The real beauty of this road is that it contains some of the most delightful hidden gems in the city.
Although Dominion Road is renowned for its varied options when it comes to Asian cuisine, it’s also home to one of the best French bakeries in Auckland. La Voie Francaise has become a destination spot with punters lining up out the door on weekend mornings just to get their pastry fix. This bakery is also one of the rare ones in town that makes a kouign-amann, which is a croissant that has been coated in sugar and caramelised to provide the ultimate crispy, buttery experience. 875 Dominion Road
Dominion Road locals swear by Forage Cafe because apparently, the baristas at this place brew the best coffee in the neighbourhood. This spot also has a variety of sandwiches, sweets and savoury dishes on offer that change regularly, and seasonal salads that can be served with a choice of spiced lamb, shredded chicken or halloumi. 90 Dominion Road
Try something different and have a Chinese style breakfast at Bunhut. Rather than falling back on the classic eggs on toast, step out of your comfort zone and opt for a jian bing guo zi. It’s a Chinese savoury crepe made from a light batter and fried egg, slathered with hoisin and chilli sauce and then filled with shredded vegetables and a fried bread stick. If you’re wanting something sweet, however, a simple red bean steamed bun accompanied by a warm glass of soy milk will do the trick. 563 Dominion Road
Should a craving for excellent Turkish food hit you, we recommend you hot-foot it to Paasha Turkish Kitchen, stat. Prioritising high quality ingredients and truly mouth watering grill techniques with their shish kebabs, hot flat bread wraps, pita pockets and more, this spot is the place to go for some of the best Turkish takeaway in town. 261 Dominion Road
Noodles are, after all, what most people come to Dominion Road for and Chongqing is one of the best places to get them. The broth of these noodles is less oily than other places we have tried but still contains the same amounts of spice and flavour. The rice noodles with braised beef is a dish you can never go wrong with. The beef is so tender that it melts in your mouth while the chewy texture of the noodles contrasts against the soft, succulent meat. 215 Dominion Road
Opening during lockdown adjacent to their stalwart eatery on Dominion Road, Cazador Deli — much like the eatery itself, stands out for its incredible game offering. Unsurprising, then, that the deli also knows a thing or two about the makings of an epic sandwich. There’s plenty to choose from, and the options are ever-changing, and the best bit is you can grab some tasty supplies for dinner while picking up lunch. 854 Dominion Road
There are dumplings and then there are soup dumplings, otherwise referred to as xiaolongbao. Restaurants that serve this delicacy are hard to find in this city due to the fact that making them requires a high level of skill. Filled with rich meat soup, usually made from pork, the little xiaolongbao pockets from Jolin Shanghai are freshly made to order and boast thicker skins than traditional soup dumplings which imbues them with a chewier texture. 248 Dominion Road
Upon first glance, you might think that Tasca is just a little cafe. What you don’t see, however, is that this Spanish eatery has an olive garden and spacious courtyard out the back, making it the perfect spot for a long lunch. In terms of food, while there are many flavourful and delicious options, be sure to order the calamares — you’ll thank us later. 338 Dominion Road
Another delicacy that has people driving to Dominion Road is spicy dumplings. Sha Xian Snack’s dumplings are unique because diners are given the option to change their dumpling filling instead of having to settle for predominantly pork. Sha Xian Snack also serves an oyster pie which is a deep-fried morsel packed with pickled vegetables and a juicy oyster — truly a one-of-a-kind dish. 285 Dominion Road
Those seeking a buzzing, local spot in Mt Eden needn’t look further than welcoming gastropub The Bridgman, having taken over an iconic site in April last year. Opened by Sean Lee (with business partner Andy Barnett) The Bridgman is just what Dominion Road needed for a long time, and offers an elevated bar and bistro experience that has made it a popular watering hole for locals. With a delicious menu of satiating dishes (think a fresher take on traditional pub fare) and a comprehensive cocktail and drinks offering, this gastropub is the perfect drop-in for drinks with friends or an after-work bite. 234 Dominion Road
Take a break at casual eatery and bar, Ralph’s. With a variety of Parrotdog beers on tap, a wide selection of Garage Project brews and an impressive snack and burger menu, Ralph’s is the go-to spot for a quick refuel. The jalapeño poppers and curly fries are both absolute must-tries, but if you’re wanting more of a meal, make a beeline for the Easy Cheesy Wagyu beef burger. 225B Dominion Road
Despite being one of the newest kids on the block, esteemed chef Gleber Chaparro’s Parro has already carved out a solid reputation for serving up some of the city’s best eats. Mediterranean-inspired, Parro’s succinct, inventive menu comprises show-stopping mains and small plates for sharing, alongside an excellent wine list of predominantly natural wines, curated to perfectly accompany the tasty bites on offer. 359 Dominion Road
An intimate space that elevates the idea of the classic pizza parlour, Ooh-Fa is the second spot from the culinary minds behind Pici and has been perpetually popular since opening. From its comfortable, warm atmosphere (thanks to the woodfire oven and low lighting) to the considered menu of delectable pizzas and sides, this 22-seater restaurant is the perfect neighbourhood spot to drop into and catch up with friends over a slice or two and some delectable wine. We recommend booking to secure your spot. 357 Dominion Road
Plabita Florence’s intriguing, plant-based restaurant reopened it’s doors last year, much to the delight of local gastronomes. Serving an array of groundbreaking, plant-based cuisine that uses unexpected flavours and unique ingredients to harness the potential of vegetarian food in a way that no one has before, Florence’s Forest is a feast for the senses, and promises a culinary experience unlike anything else in the city. 243 Dominion Road
This iconic spot hardly needs any introduction, but if you haven’t visited Eden Noodles Cafe, we suggest you ask yourself what you’ve been doing this whole time. With locations now in the CBD and in Albany, diners city-wide can enjoy the signature sichuan-laced dishes from Eden Noodles — but we always love visiting the bustling Dominion Road outpost (provided the queue isn’t too long). Sign us up for some thick noodles with dandan sauce, some vegetarian dumplings in spicy sauce and, of course, a cucumber salad. 105 Dominion Road
Nestled smack bang in the middle of Dominion Road, Kookoo is a delicious dining destination serving authentic Korean cuisine with a few tasty twists. There are a number of inventive dishes worth indulging in, but the hero of the menu is without a doubt the Korean-style whole chicken, marinated for 24 hours to ensure tenderness and flavour and served with sticky rice. Best enjoyed with an ice-cold beer and great company, and perhaps a side of kimchi fried rice. 245 Dominion Road
You don’t know what spicy food is until you’ve sampled the highest spice level at Hot & Spicy Pot. At this restaurant, what goes into your dish is all up to you. Just grab a stainless steel bowl, some tongs and get creative. With a variety of vegetables, noodles, meats and seafood on offer, all you need to do is pick and mix your favourites, tell the chefs how spicy you want to go and let them do the rest. Be warned though, that even the medium level of spice at this restaurant has been known to leave people teary-eyed, so you can only imagine what the effect of the top tier might be. 605 Dominion Road
Cheap and cheerful is the best way to explain Gogo Music Cafe. Although it has a few branches around Auckland, the one on Dominion Road is the original, the biggest and quite frankly, the best. Take a big group and order a bowl of the spicy chicken casserole with hand-pulled noodles, the $1 lamb skewers and some Tsing Tao beer. Devoured among Gogo Music Cafe’s loud and buzzing atmosphere, it’s a fun and memorable experience. 559 Dominion Road
Having joined the line-up at the start of last year, Mr Hao offers authentic bursts of Shanghai-inspired flavour with dishes such as the Numbing Chicken, a dish which sees gently fried chicken drowning in a delicious sea of chillies and numbing Sichuan peppers. Inspired by Shanghai’s late-night bar scene, Mr Hao is just the place for a relaxed get-together. Alongside the infamous Numbing Chicken, you’ll find a range of tasty skewers, noodles and irresistible grilled seafood, plus a refreshing tea cocktail on tap. 365 Dominion Road
This place is one of Dominion Road’s hidden gems and one that hasn’t failed us yet. Wang Wang Spring Pancake specialises in pancake wraps, similar to the ones used for Peking duck. But here, diners are given the freedom to order whatever meats and vegetables they want to fill their pancakes with. While everything is delicious, we recommend the stir fried shredded potato, the dry fried green beans with pork mince, and the fried eggplant with mushrooms and tofu. 704 Dominion Road
The chilli fried boneless chicken served here has made quite a name for itself and after you taste it, you’ll understand the hype. The chicken is seasoned with a copious amount of chilli and is perfectly cooked so that once you sample it for the first time, you’ll be addicted for life (seriously). The fried rice is also an excellent dish and is elevated to new heights when pork hock is added, seeing a thick, tasty sauce poured over the bed of fluffy rice. 557 Dominion Road
Forget being one of the best restaurants on Dominion Road, Cazador is one of the best spots in Auckland full stop. This restaurant serves unique dishes that showcase ethical ingredients and sustainable cooking principles by making use of all parts of the animal being served, instead of only offering cuts like the breast or belly. The menu changes depending on the availability of ingredients but the charcuterie platter is a staple and for good reason. Combined with its seamless service and lush ambience, Cazador is a must for any Aucklander. 854 Dominion Road
A cosy and compact Japanese eatery, Udon Works is home to some of the best noodle soups in town. Simple yet delicious, a big bowl of their warming broth with some thick udon noodles will leave you feeling like all is right with the world. Udon Works also has a menu of cold noodle dishes and delicious donburi with rice, with a variety of vegetable, meat and seafood options available — plus some of the best tempura we’ve tried. 633 Dominion Road
Take a trip to Meet Fresh for a Taiwanese take on dessert. Taiwanese desserts tend to be lighter, less sweet and lean more towards the refreshing side rather than being too sugary. The mango shaved ice is a fruity delight but if you want something more decadent, the freshly made waffles are always a good idea. 533 Dominion Road
Despite what the name of this bakery might indicate, it is certainly not your run-of-the-mill cake shop. The Gateau House specialises in South Korean pastries which include red-bean-filled buns that are topped with cookie crumble alongside a wide variety of delicate cakes. Our favourite is the kumara cake — a light and fluffy sponge layered with whipped cream and sweet potato mousse. 375 Dominion Road
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