With the festive season fast approaching, there’s no better excuse to gather your nearest and dearest for a proper celebration. From intimate Christmas dinners to extravagant end-of-year parties, we’ve curated the best private dining destinations for eating, drinking and celebrating the year that’s been.
Featured Venues
Le Mezzanine at Origine
Perched above the grand dining room at Commercial Bay’s elevated French restaurant Origine, La Mezzanine offers an intimate setting with a distinct after-dark atmosphere. Soft lighting and sweeping views across Downtown Auckland lend the space a sense of occasion, while its position above the energy of the main restaurant provides both privacy and connection. Paired with Origine’s accomplished French fare and polished service, it’s a sophisticated choice for long lunches, dinners and special gatherings.
Location: Commercial Bay, Level 2/172 Quay Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: up to 50 guests
Click here to book now.
Azabu Mission Bay
The perfect beachside location for an end-of-year get-together, Azabu Mission Bay offers completely private dining in its adjacent Stonehouse or semi-private events in its open courtyard. From formal sit-down dinners to casual drinks, this versatile venue offers a space for any occasion.
Location: 44 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay
Suitable For: Stonehouse — 40 (seated) to 60 (standing) guests, The Courtyard — up to 60 guests (standing), Venue Exclusive — up to 200 guests
Click here to book now.
Andiamo
A Herne Bay institution that knows a thing or two about entertaining, Andiamo is an excellent choice for private celebrations, bringing its lively neighbourhood atmosphere and much-loved Italian fare to every occasion. From intimate gatherings in the semi-private dining room to larger celebrations in the front dining room or exclusive use of the entire restaurant, the venue offers plenty of flexibility. Expect generous sharing menus, exceptional hospitality and an atmosphere that makes any occasion feel special.
Location: 194 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland
Suitable For: Up to 25 seated guests in the semi-private dining room, 36 in the front dining room, or up to 70 seated and 150 standing for exclusive venue hire.
Click here to book now.
Bravo at Cracker Bay
Ideal for intimate celebrations, business dinners and long lunches, Bravo at Cracker Bay’s Glass House offers a private dining experience tucked away from the main restaurant. With two light-filled dining rooms that can be combined for larger groups, the space balances privacy with the lively atmosphere of the restaurant, while curated menus, canapé packages and attentive table service make every occasion feel seamless
Location: 9 Westhaven Drive, Auckland CBD, Auckland
Suitable For: 12 or 14 seated guests, or up to 26 guests when both rooms are combined
Click here to book now.
Metita
Metita’s striking private dining room provides an intimate backdrop for occasions centred around exceptional food. Accommodating up to 26 guests while remaining well suited to smaller gatherings, the beautifully appointed space showcases Chef Michael Meredith’s contemporary interpretation of South Pacific cuisine, shaped by his Samoan heritage. The result is a warm and memorable dining experience that feels entirely its own.
Location: SkyCity, 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: seats up to 26 guests
Click here to book now.
The Grill
An enduring Auckland institution, The Grill offers a refined private dining room for long lunches, celebratory dinners and intimate gatherings of up to 12 guests. The self-contained space places guests at the heart of the restaurant’s renowned dining experience, with a bespoke menu tailored to the needs of the group, and an extensive drinks list setting the tone for the occasion. A private ensuite adjoining the room adds another layer of ease, allowing guests to settle in and enjoy an evening that feels both polished and discreet.
Location: Horizon by SkyCity, 85 Hobson Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: 6 to 12 guests
Click here to book now.
Ki Māha
For a private celebration with a spectacular backdrop, few settings rival Ki Māha, positioned directly on the waterfront of Waiheke Island’s Onetangi Beach. From intimate gatherings to grand occasions, the restaurant offers an exceptional setting for long lunches, corporate functions and milestone celebrations, complete with curated menus showcasing sustainably harvested seafood, premium local meats and seasonal produce. Add Champagne, an impressive wine selection and sweeping ocean views, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable occasion. Exclusive venue hire and guest transfers are also available.
Location: 1 Fourth Avenue, Onetangi Beach, Waiheke Island
Suitable For: Intimate gatherings from 9 guests to larger celebrations of up to 120, including exclusive use of the entire restaurant with bespoke menus.
Click here to book now.
Soul Bar & Bistro
A long-time go-to for corporate lunches and long-overdue catch-ups alike, bigger parties can also enjoy a ‘private’ piece of Soul by closing the bi-fold doors to what is usually the cocktail lounge. It’s perfect for seated long lunches, where guests can indulge in Executive Chef Gavin Doyle’s fine cuisine via a set menu. Larger parties, on the other hand, can use the same space while also spilling out onto the famous deck and bar area for standing events.
Location: Viaduct Harbour, Corner of Lower Hobson Street & Customs Street West, Auckland City
Suitable For: up to 30 guests seated or 35 – 100 standing for cocktails and canapés
Click here to book now.
Ember
Set within Grand Millennium Auckland, Ember’s private dining space is tucked discreetly at the rear of the restaurant and accommodates up to 50 guests. The experience can be tailored to suit the occasion, with globally inspired, seasonal sharing plates by Chef James Kenny and Head Chef Aaron Hyett bringing a convivial feel to group dining.
Location: Grand Millennium Auckland, 71 Mayoral Drive, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: up to 50 guests
Click here to book now.
Jervois Steak House
Hidden upstairs at Jervois Steak House, this discreet private dining room offers a warm and intimate setting away from the main restaurant. Cosy yet polished, it’s an inviting spot for private gatherings centred around the restaurant’s signature steakhouse experience.
Location: 70 Jervois Road, Ponsonby
Suitable For: up to 12 seated guests
Email [email protected] to book now or call (09) 376 2049.
Flush Urban Golf + Bar
For a private event with a little more personality, Flush Urban Golf + Bar brings together exceptional dining, drinks and world-class golf simulators in the heart of Auckland’s CBD. With a collection of versatile spaces, from the lively bar and restaurant to dedicated golf simulator areas and an inviting laneway, it’s an excellent choice for corporate functions, birthdays and celebrations. Canapé and seated menus, entertainment and optional AV support ensure every occasion is expertly catered for, with the added appeal of a little friendly competition.
Location: 48 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: Groups of 20 to 150 guests across various private event spaces, with full venue hire accommodating up to 220 guests.
Click here to book now.
Trivet
For a festive celebration in the heart of Auckland, Trivet offers an inviting setting for gathering friends, family or colleagues over exceptional food. With its elegant interiors and beautifully considered menus, the restaurant is an excellent choice for everything from intimate Christmas gatherings to larger end-of-year celebrations. For those looking to make Christmas Day particularly special, Trivet is also hosting a festive feast featuring a three-course menu, carving station, salad bar and indulgent dessert buffet, leaving guests free to enjoy the occasion without lifting a finger.
Location: Auckland CBD
Suitable for: Christmas celebrations, corporate gatherings, group dining and Christmas Day feasts.
Click here to book now.
Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant
For a private dining occasion with a distinctly Waiheke Island setting, Mudbrick offers beautiful vineyard views, exceptional food and an atmosphere made for celebrating. Just 35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland, the estate offers a selection of private spaces, from the intimate Mezzanine & Deck for up to 20 guests to the Private Room & Terrace Deck accommodating up to 50. With tailored group menus, award-winning restaurants and the option of exclusive venue hire, it’s an idyllic setting for everything from milestone birthdays to special gatherings.
Location: Waiheke Island
Suitable for: Up to 50 guests for private dining, with larger groups accommodated through exclusive venue hire.
Click here to book now.
Kureta
For an intimate dining experience with a distinctly Japanese sensibility, Kureta offers a sophisticated setting for private celebrations and corporate gatherings in the heart of Auckland’s CBD. Led by Head Chef Aki, the restaurant’s curated omakase experience showcases exceptional ingredients through precise Japanese culinary techniques, with bespoke menus designed to make every occasion memorable. From elegant business lunches to exclusive evening celebrations, Kureta brings together exceptional cuisine, considered hospitality and an intimate atmosphere.
Location: Auckland CBD
Suitable For: Private dining and exclusive events of up to 30 guests.
Click here to book now.
Lilian
Tucked upstairs in Grey Lynn, Lilian’s private dining room is an intimate haven for 10–14 guests — ideal for long lunches, relaxed gatherings or special dinners. Centred around a striking marble-topped table with plush leather banquette seating, the space feels both warm and refined. Guests can choose from family-style set menus or customise à la carte, all paired with wines from the curated cellar.
Location: 472 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn
Suitable For: 10 to 14 guests
Email [email protected] to book now.
Masu
Masu offers two semi-private spaces for more intimate occasions. Framed by bubble glass, The Obi Room creates a sense of seclusion while remaining connected to the main dining room, with a sculptural timber table and vintage Japanese obi-kimono prints lending the space character. Alternatively, the Chef’s Kotatsu Table sits at the rear of the restaurant beneath a striking Japanese dragon artwork by calligraphy master Ushio Sekiguchi.
Location: SkyCity, 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: The Obi Room — up to 18 guests, Chef’s Kotastu Table — 8 to 10 people
Click here to book now.
Huami
For those seeking a more private experience, three elegant dining rooms provide an intimate setting in which to enjoy Huami’s modern interpretation of traditional Chinese cuisine. The first two each seat 12 guests and can be used separately or combined, while the third accommodates up to six.
Location: SkyCity, 87 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: 6 to 12 guests seated
Click here to book now.
Cassia
Having recently opened the doors to its striking new home on Albert Street, Cassia is bringing its celebrated contemporary Indian cuisine back to the heart of Auckland’s CBD. The restaurant’s dedicated events floor offers an impressive setting for everything from intimate celebrations to corporate gatherings, with three private dining spaces accommodating 14 guests each, or the option to take over the entire floor for up to 50. Complete with its own kitchen, bar and facilities, the space offers a seamless private dining experience, with no room hire fee (minimum spends apply).
Location: 58 Albert Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland
Suitable For: Featuring three tables of 14 that can be curtained into intimate private spaces, or opened up to host up to 50 guests.
Click here to book now.
Non Solo Pizza
In the heart of Parnell, NSP’s private room channels the relaxed refinement of Napa Valley. Designed for groups of 10–20, the warm, intimate space provides a polished setting for enjoying beautifully presented Californian-inspired dishes, from seasonal seafood to premium grilled cuts, alongside an impressive selection of Napa wines. Fully serviced and well suited to milestone birthdays, client dinners and special gatherings, it offers privacy without losing the restaurant’s convivial atmosphere. For larger groups, NSP’s courtyard provides a spacious alternative.
Location: 1052/259 Parnell Road, Parnell
Suitable For: Courtyard — 100 standing or 50 seated, Private Dining Room — 22 seated
Click here to book now.
Ebisu
Fans of Ebisu’s exceptional Japanese cuisine will be pleased to know the downtown favourite also offers private dining. Filled with natural light, the Nikko Courtyard features large warehouse windows overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, making it an inviting setting for a seated dinner or cocktail party.
Location: 116 – 118 Quay Street, Britomart
Suitable For: up to 30 guests
Click here to book now.
Somm Wine Bar & Bistro
Tucked away to the east of Somm Wine Bar & Bistro is the venue’s lush & gorgeous semi-private area. This space is cleverly tucked behind the venue’s cellar, which displays an impressive array of library and large-format wines. The room is draped in heavy-set ‘cabernet’ curtains, which, when drawn, instantly transform the space into the cosiest of settings.
Location: Shed 22 Princes Wharf, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: up to 12 guests
Click here to book now.
Mr Morris
Mr Morris offers an intimate setting for private celebrations, family gatherings and special occasions, with the team working closely with each group to create a tailored experience. Guests can enjoy the restaurant’s full menu, with space for up to 28 seated diners or 35 for cocktails and snacks.
Location: Britomart, Corner of Galway & Commerce Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: up to 28 seated guests, up to 35 for cocktails and canapés
Click here to book now.
Beau
For a festive gathering with a little more intimacy, Beau offers a charming setting for celebrating with friends, family or colleagues. Its beautiful private dining room features two large wooden trestle tables, comfortably seating 22 guests, while the courtyard offers a relaxed alternative for up to 30. With specially curated group menus priced at $85 or $120 per person, it’s an inviting choice for long lunches, Christmas dinners and end-of-year celebrations that deserve a little extra attention.
Location: Ponsonby
Suitable for: Up to 25 guests in the private dining room or 30 in the courtyard.
Click here to book now.
Otto
Holding pride of place on vibrant K-Road, the informal Italian offering Otto caters to gatherings of various sizes. Boasting three separate private dining spaces — including a full basement level with its own private bar and capacity for up to 80 guests — all three private rooms come outfitted with dedicated sound systems. Guests are invited to dine off set menus, typically served as a rolling feast.
Location: 375 Karangahape Road, Auckland Central
Suitable For: up to 80 on the basement level, 34 guests in the Legend room and 28 guests in the MC private dining room.
Click here to book now.
Bossi
Overlooking the restaurant below, the lush Italian eatery Bossi offers a private mezzanine ideal for after-work drinks or smaller parties, accommodating 11 to 36 guests. For larger events, the entire restaurant can accommodate. What’s more, Bossi will work with you to build a custom menu, designed specifically for your event.
Location: 10 Commerce Street, Auckland Central
Suitable For: up to 36 guests
Click here to book now.
Kingi
Set across from Kingi’s main dining room, Kingi Private is a light-filled space suited to both shared feasts and business gatherings. A view into the kitchen creates an immersive connection to the restaurant’s seasonal menu, while a concealed 65-inch screen, high-speed internet and AV facilities make the room equally equipped for meetings, presentations and intimate product launches.
Location: Tuawhiti Lane, 29 Galway Street, Britomart
Suitable For: 14 guests for degustation
Click here to book now.
