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The 12 Best Degustations in Auckland (and Why They’re Amazing)

The 12 Best Degustations in Auckland (and Why They’re Amazing)

Feeling that familiar pang of hunger and longing for a lavish meal? You’re not alone! Sometimes, nothing hits the spot quite like a ten-course feast. 

Luckily, we have plenty of degustation experiences in Auckland. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a marathon of up to ten courses in one sitting.

If you’re on the hunt – don’t sweat, we already have the list of the best. And what kind of guide would we be if we didn’t share our finds? Let’s go!

Sid at The French Cafe

Website: http://www.sidatthefrenchcafe.co.nz/ 

Address: 210 Symonds Street, Eden Terrace, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 377 1911

Operating hours: Tuesday – Friday: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Price: $$$

Sid at the French Cafe has a reputation for serving up one of the city’s best degustations. Run by Sid and Chand Sahrawat, they’ve nailed everything – the food, the vibe, the service – you name it!

For $190 a person, you get a 5-course tasting menu that’s definitely a splurge. But truly, it’s worth every cent for the flavors you’ll experience.

Think Dry Aged Beef Tartare with fermented pepper, daikon, and venison black pudding, paired with a beef fat waffle. 

And if that doesn’t grab you, they have Scallops with cashew, smoked eel, finger lime, and a touch of vanilla-infused brown butter. Sounds pretty fancy, right?

What’s cool is they cater to everyone – vegetarians, meat-eaters, and wine lovers too. In fact, they have separate menus for each.

Plus, there’s always a sommelier on round to help you find the perfect wine or guide you through a wine-paired feast.

Sidart

Website: http://www.sidart.co.nz/ 

Address: 283 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 360 2122

Operating hours: Tuesday – Friday: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM and 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Price: $$$

Another degustation spot in Auckland by Chef Sid Sahwarat, Sidart Restaurant elevates the fine dining experience and culinary artistry. Their Discovery Menu offers either five or seven courses, blending Kiwi ingredients with modern Indian flavors. 

Here, you have two options for tasting menus: The Mini (6 courses, $160) or the Complete (10 courses, $210). They can also accommodate dietary needs if you give them a heads-up. 

Additionally, Saturdays bring a special treat – patrons can indulge in the mini-tasting menu with a complimentary glass of bubbles.

For a bit of dinner theater, why not reserve their exclusive Chef’s Table? You’ll get a front-row seat to the kitchen action, along with live commentary from the chefs, seven courses, and a flute of champagne.

Cocoro

Website: https://cocoro.co.nz/

Address: 56a Brown Street, Ponsonby, Auckland 1021, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 360 0927

Operating hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Price: $$$

Cocoro, meaning ‘the heart and soul’, is a cozy Japanese restaurant in Auckland with seating for 40 guests. The ambiance is intimate, featuring a large communal table. For dinner, they offer set menus alongside à la carte options.

Here’s a tip: If you’re eyeing their set menus, the degustation is the best bang for your buck. For $98 per person, you’ll enjoy a nine-course feast featuring options like oyster tempura, charcoal-finished organic rack of lamb, and Nabeshima sake chocolate ganache.

But for those seeking an extravagant feast, don’t miss their sashimi platter boasting over 25 varieties of seafood and 5 accompanying sauces. It’s just one highlight of the multi-course meal!

Heads up though, making a reservation is a must as snagging a spot here can be challenging. 

Bracu Restaurant

Website: http://www.bracu.co.nz/ 

Address: 49 Main Road, Bombay 2675, New Zealand

Operating hours: Thursday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM and 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Price: $$$

If you’re up for a trip down south, Bracu would be an excellent choice for a destination restaurant. Conveniently located just a 40-minute drive from Auckland, it’s an easy escape for those seeking a memorable dining experience.

Tucked away amidst the picturesque olive groves of the Simunovich Olive Estate, Bracu boasts the culinary expertise of Head Chef Logan Clark, who skillfully incorporates fresh produce sourced from the estate’s own gardens. 

Their degustation menu, available for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday, is a real treat. You’ll get to taste delicious dishes like cured kingfish, rack of lamb, venison carpaccio, and beef tartare – all spread out over seven courses.

It’s usually around $145 per person, but if you’re feeling fancy and want wine pairings, it’s $199 each. With its gorgeous surroundings and top-notch food, Bracu promises an unforgettable dining experience that’s worth the trip.

Paris Butter

Website: http://www.parisbutter.co.nz/ 

Address: 166 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 376 5597

Operating hours: Monday – Thursday, Saturday: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:30 PM 

Price: $$$

With Paris Butter’s knack for amazing degustations, it’s no wonder their ‘Menu Du Chef’ dinner has become a favorite spot in Auckland.

They’re all about French-inspired dishes made with local Kiwi ingredients, so you know you’re in for a flavorful journey every time you dine there.

Their degustation menu usually includes about seven courses, starting with tasty dishes like tartares or cured fish. Then, it’s followed by perfectly cooked meats like lamb or beef, paired with creative sauces and sides.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you need to check out Test Kitchen Tuesdays. It’s when their creative team gets together to whip up some really inventive and tasty dishes, which you won’t typically find on their menu.

And don’t forget to keep an eye on their social media for special events like Truffle Dinners, Wine Dinners, and the Next Generation Chef series. These events are your chance to enjoy the best of New Zealand’s produce in a unique dining experience.

Meat Fish Wine

– Media by arranmh

Address: 2 Chancery Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 374 0990

Price: $$

If you’re keen to explore every aspect of this Australian eatery’s name, Meat Fish Wine, their three-course degustation menu offers just that. Instead of mere dabs of puree on a plate, you’ll find ample portions that justify the $79 price tag. 

Right now, they have some mouthwatering options on the seasonal menu. 

How about trying out their dumpling-like prawn tortellini swimming in a tasty crayfish bisque? Or maybe go for the venison carpaccio with horopito pepper, orange, and beetroot?

Should your appetite demand more, consider upping your meal with a side of triple-cooked chips for that perfect crunch. You can also get a fresh mixed-leaf salad to balance the richness of the main courses.

And, yes, one of the main reasons you’ll love dining here is their extensive wine list. The sommelier on-site knows their stuff and will help you find the perfect match for each dish.

Meredith’s Restaurant

– Media by mmeredith27

Website:

Address: 365 Dominion Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 623 3140

Operating hours: 

Price: $$

Helmed by renowned chef Michael Meredith. This intimate restaurant exclusively offers degustation menus.

During Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings, Merediths offers a five-course degustation menu priced at $90. 

While the menu is subject to change, it may feature delectable offerings such as Cloudy Bay clams served with dashi and foraged seaweed. Or perhaps a dish highlighting mushroom, smoked hock, and ox tongue.

For those seeking a midday indulgence, Merediths also delights patrons on Friday lunchtimes with a four-course degustation accompanied by champagne –  all for a reasonable $65.

Kazuya

Website: http://www.kazuya.co.nz/ 

Address: 193 Symonds Street, Eden Terrace, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 377 8537

Operating hours: Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM | Thursday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM and  5:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Price: $$$

If you want something creative, dive into Kazuya’s premium seven-course degustation, starting at $160 per person. 

Nestled discreetly behind an unassuming storefront in Eden Terrace, this hidden gem seamlessly marries European haute cuisine with delicate Japanese influences.

During the Premium Degustation, Chef Kazuya is all set to cater to your every craving, whipping up a personalized menu just for you. Or, if you’re up for a surprise, let the talented culinary team take charge with their classic five or seven-course options.

Expect offerings such as Tuatua clam, Tarakihi, Wagyu & Pork “Mench Katsu” croquette, or the freshest catch of the day.

Poderi Crisci

Website: http://www.podericrisci.co.nz/

Address: 205 Awaawaroa Road, Waiheke Island 1971, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 372 2148

Operating hours: Monday and Thursday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Price: $$$

Want to enhance your Waiheke getaway? Treat yourself to a leisurely long lunch at the stunning Poderi Crisci. Their eigh-course authentic Italian degustation is always a hit!

Whether you’re cuddled up for a cozy winter evening by their crackling fire, or enjoying a laid-back summer night dining al fresco, their dinner experience is one to savor.

We’re talking about you digging into their eight-course dinner, starting with freshly baked bread and homemade olive oil. Then move on to creamy whipped organic mozzarella antipasto, pesto gnocchi, aged Angus sirloin, and finish off with a delectable strudel.

Now, although their degustation menu changes daily, the overall format remains consistent, allowing you to also sample their handcrafted wines. It’s $115 per person, or $190 with the matching wines included.

Note – Poderi Crisci’s degustation dinners are exclusively hosted on Saturday evenings, and reservations are required!

Cassia

Website: https://skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/cassia/ 

Address: 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 379 9702

Operating hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM | Thursday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Price: $

It’s not every day you come across modern Indian degustation spots, but Cassia stands out as one of Auckland’s few. Tucked away in Downtown Auckland’s Fort Lane, this trendy eatery puts a fresh, urban spin on Indian flavors.

For $80 per person, you can dive into their five-course degustation menu, featuring dishes like yellowfin tuna with cucumber, black garlic, and sorrel, or Tandoori chicken with chettinad, kadhai spices, and pickled radish. 

If you’re indecisive, their Journey Through India option on the à-la-carte menu makes life easier. Additionally, the friendly staff at Cassia are always ready to guide you through each course, and they’ll happily recommend beverages to match. 

With its wallet-friendly prices, Cassia is the perfect place to kickstart your degustation journey in Auckland. Plus, being located in the CBD makes it convenient to indulge in bold flavors without breaking the bank.

The Sugar Club

Website: http://www.skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/the-sugar-club/ 

Address: Corner of Federal and Victoria Streets, Level 53, Sky Tower, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 363 6365

Operating hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Price: $$$

For a memorable night out with stunning views, consider The Sugar Club, located 53 floors above Auckland’s bustling skyline. Here, you’ll discover not only breathtaking panoramas but also one of the city’s most acclaimed degustation menus.

They offer tasting menus for groups of 13 people or more, featuring dishes like daily bread, kia ora, kingfish, potato and kombu brandade, longline snapper, duck, beef cheek. And yes, there’s also a delicious selection of desserts.

On top of that, vegans aren’t limited to plant-based sides and snacks – there are seven courses of plant-based delights to match the omnivore menu. And speaking of options, don’t miss the cocktail list, featuring New Zealand-inspired drinks brimming with Kiwi ingredients. 

Just remember to reserve a spot— – it’s a must at The Sugar Club!

The Grove

Website: http://www.thegroverestaurant.co.nz/ 

Address: Saint Patricks Square, Wyndham Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Contact details: +64 9 368 4129

Operating hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 5:30 PM – 12:00 AM

Price: $$$

If you’re craving more than just a regular degustation, consider upgrading your dining experience at The Grove. This charming restaurant in Auckland’s CBD offers personalized options to suit your taste buds. 

Choose between the six-course menu ($195 per person) or the eight-course menu ($235 per person). Then, let The Grove’s friendly team help you with wine pairings for an extra special evening.

Both menus come with a variety of snacks, sourdough bread, and petit fours, all showcasing delicious modern New Zealand cuisine. 

The Grove also caters to vegetarians and vegans, offering customized menus upon request. So, if you’re a certified vegan, you’re in luck!