Spring is finally here, and with it comes a raft of delicious dining experiences that are set to help lift us right out of our winter slump. From unmissable high teas to mouth-watering events, cocktail-centric celebrations, seasonal set menus, long lunches and more, here we present our definitive September Dining Guide.

Metita’s Tahiti Menu

Metita is bringing the spirit of Tahiti to Auckland this September, with a special menu inspired by chef Michael Meredith’s recent travels through the islands. In partnership with Tahiti Tourism, Meredith has crafted a menu that captures the spirit of the Pacific with traditional flavours reimagined through a contemporary lens, presenting a rare chance to experience the depth, freshness, and cultural richness of Tahitian cuisine.

Secure your spot here.

Guest in Residence at Somm

Later in the month, Somm is set to host an exclusive evening with Rockburn Wines, pairing a bespoke set menu with a curated wine flight that showcases the Central Otago label’s signature elegance. With the winemaker in attendance, it’s a rare chance to experience Rockburn’s craftsmanship alongside dishes designed to complement every pour.

Secure your spot here.

Monday Nights at Bianca

Every Monday at Ellerslie’s beloved Bianca, there’s even more reason to gather around the table. For just $50, diners can enjoy a set menu featuring warm, house-baked focaccia, a choice of signature pasta, and a decadent dessert to finish. It’s the perfect way to start the week, offering exceptional value without compromising on quality. While the full à la carte menu is also available, this irresistible offer makes Mondays at Bianca an occasion worth marking in your calendar.

Secure your spot here.

$12 G&T’s

This September, a lineup of the city’s favourite spots — from The Grill and SkyBar to Cassia, Metita, Masu, Huami, Depot and Fed Deli — will be serving $12 G&Ts in partnership with Four Pillars Gin. A month-long excuse to get out and about and slip into spring.

Aotearoa High Tea in The Libraries

This Father’s Day, The Libraries at The Hotel Britomart open their doors for an exclusive Aotearoa-inspired High Tea. Hosted in the richly layered heritage spaces, guests will begin with a glass of No1 Family Estate Assemblé before savouring teas from Zealong and three courses of seasonal savoury and sweet delicacies — crafted by Executive Chef Andrew Lautenbach and inspired by his favourite childhood treats. Taking place on Sunday, 7th September at 12pm, this special High Tea experience is $95 per guest.

Secure your spot here.

Winemaker Series: At The Wine Room

Celebrate the artistry of Martinborough winemaking this September with The Wine Room’s Winemaker Series: ‘At the Table’ with Te Kairanga. On Wednesday 24th September, join winemaker John Kavanagh for a hosted tasting of Te Kairanga’s latest releases ($79pp), complemented by canapés from Executive Chef Ryan Moore. Then, on Thursday 25th September, experience an intimate five-course dinner in the Private Dining Room ($199pp), where John and David Nash will guide guests through Te Kairanga’s finest wines in perfect culinary harmony.

Secure your spot to the tasting here, and the dinner here.

Hanoi Haven’s New Menu

Takapuna’s Hanoi Haven is marking its first year in business with a refreshed menu that celebrates the vibrancy of Vietnamese cuisine. Alongside beloved favourites, new dishes like Crispy Pork Belly, Five-Spice Roasted Duck, and caramel-glazed Stuffed Squid bring fresh flavour and flair to the table, joined by zesty salads and creative cocktails. It’s a delicious evolution that makes revisiting Hanoi Haven more tempting than ever.

Secure your spot here.

Masu Bar Series: Kaza to Hana

Masu’s Bar Series returns this September with Kaza to Hana — an intimate evening of cocktails and cuisine celebrating spring’s arrival. Seated at the bar, guests will watch award-winning bartender Akira Ohki craft three seasonal cocktails, each paired with a bespoke dish — taking place on Thursdays across September.

Secure your spot here.

A Celebration of Tom’s Kingi Classics

On Wednesday, 4th September, Kingi is set to host a special four-course dinner honouring the dishes that have defined Tom Hishon’s five years at the helm. From snacks through to dessert, the menu revisits Tom’s favourite creations, celebrating Kingi’s enduring commitment to sustainable and innovative dining. Tickets are $140pp, and include four delicious courses.

Secure your spot here.

Seasonal Plates at SkyCity

This season brings fresh inspiration across the kitchens at SkyCity. The Grill showcases tender lamb with beetroot purée and kingfish crudo with mandarin and ponzu; Cassia introduces tandoori paneer and sesame chicken with green chilli and cashew; Masu delivers vibrant sashimi and gochujang lamb cutlets; and Metita highlights kingfish with lolo and wood-fired snapper.

Secure your spot here.

Soul’s Ladies Lunch Returns

The original Ladies Lunch is back at Soul Bar & Bistro just in time for spring, and trust us when we say there is no better way to while away an afternoon with your girlfriends. From a delectable three-course meal to a glass of Nautilus Estate Sauvignon Blanc (all for a modest $49pp) to the picture-perfect water-side setting and floral-festooned entrance, and, of course, an ever-lively vibe, there truly is nowhere better to celebrate the season in style. Now running from 11am — 3pm daily until October 5th, bookings are essential, so rally the troops and lock in long lunch, Soul style.

Secure your spot here.

Pay As You Feel at Kol

Ponsonby’s Kol is adding a playful twist to dining this September, introducing a ‘Pay As You Feel’ set menu every Thursday evening. Created by husband-and-wife duo Ruchi and Sapan Parikh, the initiative invites guests to enjoy Kol’s vibrant cooking while supporting a good cause, with 20% of proceeds donated to KiwiHarvest, Starship Foundation, Auckland City Mission, and Make-A-Wish.

Secure your spot here.

High Tea at JW Marriott

JW Marriott Auckland has reimagined its High Tea, unveiling an elegant new experience at Forum Bar, the hotel’s lobby lounge. Inspired by the beauty of the Waitākere landscapes, the menu balances refined patisserie and savoury bites with seasonal specialties, served alongside tea, coffee, or optional champagne and caviar. With treats like spanakopita cannoli, Fromage Blanc sandwiches, Opera Cake and scones, plus a dedicated kids’ menu, it’s a refined ritual designed for all ages.

Secure your spot here.

Tiramisu Coffee at Bossi

Downtown, Deli di Bossi (two doors down from Bossi restaurant) has captured the flavour of Italy in a cup with its must-try Tiramisu Coffee. The perfect weekend indulgence, the drink blends espresso, mascarpone, and milk, with a dusting of chocolate and a house-made biscotti, resulting in an indulgent treat that’s already become the talk of the town.