Amelia WilliamsLet’s be real. Finding the best Chinese food in Auckland can feel like a mission. The city is packed with amazing options, from bustling yum cha spots to quiet neighbourhood noodle houses.
So, how do you choose where to go for that authentic flavour you’re craving?
Don’t worry, I’ve done the delicious homework for you. This list guides local foodies to new discoveries, points hungry tourists toward authentic meals, and helps anyone find seriously good dumplings.
Here are five standout spots that go above and beyond, each offering a unique and memorable dining experience.
How Much Does Chinese Food Cost in Auckland?
Wondering how much to set aside for your meal? It really depends on the vibe you’re going for. If you’re after a quick and casual lunch, you can grab a fantastic noodle dish or a plate of dumplings for around NZ$10 to NZ$29. It’s a great option for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.For a proper sit-down dinner, you can expect a main course to cost between NZ$30 and NZ$50. And if you’re planning a celebration or a fancy night out at a high-end restaurant, mains can start at NZ$40 and go up to NZ$100 or more.
1. Ghost Street
Website: https://ghoststreetakl.nz/
Address: Basement level, Tuawhiti Lane, 27 Galway Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
Contact: 09 306 2233 / [email protected]
Hours: Mon – Wed, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM; Thu, 5:30 PM – 9 PM; Fri – Sat, 5 PM – 9:30 PM; Sun, 5:30 PM – 8 PM
Must Try Dish: Lamb Ribs & Biang Biang Noodles
If you’re looking for a restaurant with a serious “wow” factor, you have to try Ghost Street. Walking down into its basement location honestly feels like you’ve stumbled upon a secret eatery on a bustling Beijing street.
The whole vibe is dark, moody, and incredibly cool, making it a standout choice for a date night. I went last month and was blown away by the food. The lamb ribs and biang biang noodles are life-changing.
The service was just as impressive. Everyone was super helpful and genuinely friendly.
Just a heads-up, this place is no longer a secret, so you’ll definitely need to book a table in advance. Also, keep in mind that its subterranean setting involves stairs, so it isn’t easily accessible for anyone with mobility challenges.
Customer Reviews
Went here for Restaurant Month and was so glad I did! Highlights were definitely the lamb ribs, the biang biang pulled noodles and the prawn & sesame toast. Atmosphere was cute for date night with dim lighting with a candle lit table. Service was amazing – would come back!!
– Wendy Nguyen | Google Review
What an incredible experience! The food was an explosion of flavour the staff were helpful and on point. Loved the busy atmosphere and feeling of finding a hidden gem!
– Timothy Lang | Google Review
2. Little Tiger Dumpling
Website: https://littletigerdumpling.tuckerfox.co.nz/
Address: 62A Federal Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010
Contact: 0210 866 9200
Hours: Sun – Wed, 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM; Thu – Sat, 10:30 AM – 11:30 PM
Must Try Dish: Handmade Dumplings (Steamed, Boiled, or Fried)
Okay, for all the dumpling lovers out there, Little Tiger is a place you need to know about. This is my personal secret weapon for a quick and crazy-delicious lunch.
It’s a tiny, unassuming spot, but the dumplings they make are top-tier, always fresh and handmade right when you order. I love that you can get them steamed, boiled, or fried, so you can switch it up.
The owner is also one of the friendliest people you’ll meet, which just makes the food taste even better.
They have some great deals that make it super affordable, like getting a free drink when you buy 15 dumplings.
The only catch is the size of the plac. With only three seats, it’s built for takeaway. But honestly, for dumplings this good, I’d happily eat them standing up.
Customer Reviews
Little Tiger is such a gem! Their dumplings are absolutely amazing—so fresh, flavorful, and perfectly made. The fried rice is soooo yumz it’s got the perfect wok taste! The staff are super friendly and make the whole experience even better. Definitely a must-visit if you love dumplings!
– Anne de Guzman | Google Review
If you want the best dumplings in Auckland, look no further than Little Tiger Dumplings in Federal street Auckland city. They’re so tasty and the lady is so accomodating and will help you select the best flavours if you’re new to it, be warned! One dumpling and you’ll be back for more as a frequent buyer…. I love this place!!
– Loretta Thompson | Google Review
3. 印象 Impression Restaurant
Website: https://impressionakl.co.nz/
Address: 395 Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024
Contact: 09 623 1088
Hours: Open Daily, 11 AM – 3 PM & 5 PM – 10 PM
Must Try Dish: Signature Peking Duck
I’m always on the hunt for the best Peking Duck in Auckland, and I can confidently say I’ve found it at Impression Restaurant. I went there for an anniversary dinner and was completely blown away.
The duck was absolute perfection. The skin was lacquered and shatteringly crisp, while the meat underneath was incredibly juicy and flavourful.
We also explored the unique Chinese tapas menu, trying out the spicy cumin lamb skewers, which were fantastic. It was a great way to sample different flavours without committing to a large plate.
The restaurant itself has an elegant and intimate atmosphere, with dim lighting and tasteful decor that made the evening feel special.
Just keep in mind that it’s a fine-dining spot with prices to match. It’s definitely a place you’d save for a special occasion rather than a casual weeknight meal.
Customer Reviews
What a great find. Very genuine Chinese dishes almost made me feel like I was back in the Jing (Bei :). Fantastic hosts and a really nice environment. Wasn’t the cheapest night – but we also weren’t shy on the ordering 🤭 I think the tapa size plates would be perfect for smaller groups to be able got try a wide selection.
– Patrick Watene | Google Review
Nice small plate to share. Food is fresh and yummy. We visit in the Saturday afternoon and is not too busy. Plenty of off street parking. Will come back to try the dinner.
– sebemy Yeo | Google Review
4. Guangzhou Hotpot
Website: https://guangzhouhotpot.co.nz/
Address: L2 MidCity, 239 Queen Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010
Contact: 027 704 8888
Hours: Open Daily, 11 AM – 10 PM
Must Try Dish: Scampi and Seafood Hotpot
When I’m looking for a fun meal to share with friends, hotpot is always at the top of my list, and my experience at Guangzhou Hotpot was fantastic.
We ordered the scampi and seafood pot, which I’d heard great things about, and I was delighted to taste for myself—the hype is real. The traditional Cantonese broth was incredible, and the local New Zealand seafood was exceptionally fresh.
The quality of the ingredients really speaks for itself. While I personally enjoy the social aspect of cooking everything at the table, it’s a very hands-on meal.
If you prefer a more traditional dining experience where the food arrives ready to eat, this style of hot pot dining might not be your thing.
Customer Reviews
This is my fifth time having hotpot here, and it never disappoints! The food is always delicious, with big portions, high-quality seafood, and a great variety of dipping sauces. The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful—they even guided us on how to order and greeted us with warm smiles. It’s such a pleasant dining experience every time. We’ll definitely be back and will recommend this place to friends. 10/10!
– Jessica C | Google Review
Our favourite hot pot restaurant ☺️ always hits the spot every time. If you’re looking for authentic Chinese food, or just something delicious, this is the place to go.
– Finly D | Google Review
5. Pearl Garden Restaurant
Website: https://pearlgarden.co.nz/
Address: Level 1/1 Teed Street, Newmarket, Auckland 1023
Contact: 09 523 3696 / [email protected]
Hours: Mon, 11 AM – 3 PM & 5:30 PM – 9 PM; Wed – Sun, 11 AM – 3 PM & 5:30 PM – 9 PM
Must Try Dish: Steamed Dumplings & Signature Custard Buns
There are some restaurants that are just part of Auckland’s fabric, and Pearl Garden is one of them. It’s been family-run since 1975, and it has become my comfort spot for classic, authentic Chinese food.
I can never go there without ordering the steamed dumplings and their signature custard buns.
You can taste the history in them, as they’re made with the same family recipes the restaurant started with.
The restaurant has a very traditional and classic feel, which is a huge part of its charm.
While that history is a big draw, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The menu is on the pricier side, and if you’re looking for a sleek, modern dining room, the traditional decor here might not be your cup of tea.
Customer Reviews
Had dinner here. We ordered 2 claypots (tofu, eggplant), sizzling beef and roast duck. Everything was so delicious! Portions were large and filling. Our family loved it! Prices are on the higher end but definitely worth it. Will be back again.
– Eddy C | Google Review
Such a lovely place. Catered well for our group. Food came out nicely, so delicious. The service was always with a smile!! Absolutely awesome. I recommend going to this place 😊
– Toakase Misa | Google Review
