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Home » Recent posts » The 5 Best Restaurants in Westgate, Auckland (For Every Craving)

The 5 Best Restaurants in Westgate, Auckland (For Every Craving)

restaurants-in-westgate-auckland
We extensively test and research all services we review. Here's why you can trust us.

Signature Dishes: We looked for the one dish every regular raves about. This is the "must-try" item that defines the restaurant's flavour.

Ambience and Vibe: We considered the atmosphere and feeling of the place. Is it buzzing and loud, or cozy and romantic?

Price Range: This is all about value for money. We assessed whether the cost matches the quality of the food and the overall experience.

Booking Ease and Accessibility: We checked how easy it is to get a table or grab a takeaway. This includes things like online booking systems and physical locations.

Amenities/Features: We noted the extras that make a difference. This includes perks like happy hours, family-friendly menus, or easy access from the mall.

Westgate is known as a shopping destination, but it has quietly become a fantastic spot for a great meal. 

But when you’re tired of the same-old or just visiting and wondering where to eat, the options can be overwhelming. I get it. You want something good without the guesswork.

That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best restaurants in Westgate, Auckland, to help you find a great meal. 

I’ve scouted out the places that truly deliver, including epic burgers, authentic Chinese, and cozy brunch spots. Let’s find your next favourite meal.

How much does dining cost in Westgate, Auckland?

Figuring out the budget is always the first step. In Westgate, meals are available across a wide range of price points. If you’re grabbing a quick bite from a fast-food spot, expect to spend around NZ$10 to $15. For a nice sit-down lunch at a casual cafe, you’re looking at about NZ$15 to $25.When it comes to dinner, most restaurants price their main courses between NZ$30 and $40, which is pretty standard. Of course, if you’re pushing the boat out for a high-end celebration, mains can start at NZ$40 and exceed $100.

1. Jax Burger Shack

jax-burger-shack

Website: https://jaxburgershack.co.nz/
Address: 7 Northside Drive, Westgate, Auckland 0814
Contact: 09 377 1811
Schedule: Mon – Thu, 11 AM – 8:30 PM; Fri – Sat, 11 AM – 9 PM; Sun, 11 AM – 8 PM

Must-Try: The Kiwi Burger

Jax Burger Shack is all about quality you can taste, thanks to its “from our family to yours” approach. 

This spot differs from an average fast-food joint because it’s a family-run business obsessed with doing things right. 

They bake their buns locally and make their patties in-house, which makes a huge difference.

I tried the Kiwi Burger on my last visit, and the house-made aioli is genuinely next-level. Paired with their fries cooked in beef tallow, it’s just a richer, more satisfying feed. 

It’s a popular local spot, so my only gripe is that it can get pretty busy during the dinner rush, leading to a bit of a wait. Still, the community vibe and their dedication to no shortcuts make it worth it.

Pros

  • Family-owned and operated with a personal touch
  • Freshly made patties and locally baked buns
  • Signature house-made aioli
  • Fries cooked in beef tallow for extra flavour
  • Strong community feel

Cons

  • Can have longer wait times during peak hours
  • Limited seating inside

Customer Reviews

We went there for the first time. It wasn’t that busy which was great. Ordered kids cheese burger and American cheese burger combo. They were both yum. We liked it that chips comes with plenty of sauce. We would love to try chicken burger next time.
– Sayaka Strewe | Google Review

Me & my husband really enjoyed our food the burgers are huge and worth the price even the shakes are amazing we got crunchie and cookies and cream & the chips are crunchy on the out side and fluffy on the inside loved every bite will definitely go back
– Shannon Enosa | Google Review

2. Boston Cafe

boston-cafe

Website: https://www.bostoncafe.co.nz/
Address: 7 Northside Drive, Westgate, Auckland 0814
Contact: 09 948 3111 / [email protected]
Schedule: Mon – Fri, 7 AM – 3 PM, Sat – Sun, 8 AM – 3 PM

Must-Try: Northwest Lamb

Boston Cafe is that ideal, stylish local cafe that does way more than just coffee. 

It’s a fully licensed spot with a community feel, making it a popular spot for a relaxed brunch or a casual lunch meeting. Everything is cooked in-house, and their baked goods are always fresh.

I was really impressed by the menu’s variety on my visit. They don’t just serve plain brunch classics. I had the Northwest Lamb, and it was delicious—something you don’t expect from a standard cafe. 

Because it’s so popular and the atmosphere is so relaxing, it can get quite full during peak weekend brunch hours, so you might have to wait for a table. 

But with its diverse options, including a Turkish breakfast and great coffee, it’s a go-to for many visitors.

Pros

  • Stylish, modern, and relaxing atmosphere
  • Diverse menu with international and classic options
  • Fully licensed to serve alcohol
  • Caters to vegan, vegetarian, and kids’ diets
  • Food and baked goods are made fresh in-house daily

Cons

  • It can get very busy during peak brunch hours
  • Service can slow down when it’s packed

Customer Reviews

Great waffle with bacon. 4 fruits in one dish. Nice rhubarb surprise in between. Fries are all good. Nice atmosphere. Staff are great. Lots of smiles from the staff. Will definitely be back.
– Steve L | Google Review

Happened upon finding my most ideal brunch spot within this heavenly place. The food not only looked incredible but was well balanced and delicious. The staff were kind and lovely and the atmosphere was relaxing.
– Destiny Edwards | Google Review

3. Hong’s Kitchen

hong-s-kitchen

Website: https://www.hongskitchen-westgate.co.nz/
Address: Westgate Shopping Centre, Shop 7, Corner Fernhill Drive & Fred Taylor Drive, Westgate, Auckland, 0614
Contact: 09 833 6888
Schedule: Open Daily, 11:30 AM – 10 PM

Must-Try: Crispy Roasted Duck

For authentic Chinese cuisine in Westgate, Hong’s Kitchen is the real deal. 

A friend of mine who lives locally swears by this place and told me they are highly regarded for their signature roast meats. And as far as my taste buds go, their reputation is indeed well-deserved. 

Located right in the shopping centre, it’s super convenient for a takeaway or a sit-down meal.

The portions here are always massive. My friend ordered the Crispy Roasted Duck, and it was more than enough for two, which was delish and at the same time offered amazing value. 

They even brought out complimentary green tea and soup, which was a lovely touch. 

It’s a busy spot, so if you’re ordering takeaway on a Friday night, you might have a bit of a wait. The dining space itself is also quite simple, but for flavours this good and generous, it’s a small price to pay.

Pros

  • Authentic Chinese food with signature roast meats
  • Very generous portion sizes (great value)
  • Convenient location in Westgate Shopping Centre
  • Complimentary extras like tea and soup
  • Flexible service (can adjust spice levels)

Cons

  • Can be very busy, leading to service delays
  • Dining space is simple, not ideal for fancy occasions

Customer Reviews

Best Chinese food I’ve had in NZ! The Eggplant dish was insanely delicious, we had it with sides of white rice. Totally worth it for the portion, we asked for a takeaway box and had plenty left for another meal 🙂 exceptional food!
– A | Google Review

Friends brought us here while we were staying with them nearby, and wow it was great! The Peking Duck is so good, and such a big serve for the price!! And we got some of the crispy pork belly as well, only a “small” serve and it was till really big…between 4 of us we couldn’t eat it all and took some home! Such a reasonable price for the size of the serves, I would come here again happily!
– Genevieve Martin | Google Review

4. Pho Heaven

pho-heaven

Website: https://www.phoheaven.co.nz/
Address: 19 Maki Street, Westgate, Auckland 0614
Contact: 09 833 1014 / [email protected]
Schedule: Mon – Tue, 11 AM – 8:30 PM; Wed – Sun, 11 AM – 9 PM

Must-Try: Pho Heaven Special 

Pho Heaven stands out by offering a creative and delicious fusion of Vietnamese and Korean flavours

The menu expands on traditional pho, offering a unique twist to their dishes, like blending cinnamon and black pepper in the broth. 

They use high-quality ingredients and specialist techniques, like high-heat wok frying, which you can taste.

I’ve heard from so many people that their Pho Heaven Special is a must-try. They are always served fresh and affordable, so many people choose them for a quick, flavourful, and budget-friendly lunch. 

The dining setup is quite casual, and the seating is limited, so I’m told it’s not the best spot for a big formal dinner. But for a fantastic meal that’s easy on the wallet, it’s a local favourite.

Pros

  • Unique fusion of Vietnamese and Korean flavours
  • Very affordable prices for high-quality food
  • Uses high-heat wok frying for great texture
  • Diverse menu beyond just pho (rice, hot plates)
  • Convenient location with online ordering

Cons

  • Limited seating and a very casual setup
  • Not suited for large groups or formal dinners

Customer Reviews

Can’t even complain the best Pho I’ve ever had and all the other food was top tier as well. If I could I would give this place 10 stars lol. The lady was very kind too and the food came fast😋
– Apikara Waihi | Google Review

I’ve only been here twice, once last Tuesday, and I’m back again right now, and it’s delicious. Food that’s easy on the stomach, and fresh like a crisp morning. It’s definitely a favorite of mine from now on.
– Natas Murphy | Google Review

5. BurgerFuel

burgerfuel

Website: https://www.burgerfuel.com/
Address: 579 Don Buck Road, Westgate, Auckland 0614
Contact: 09 832 0013
Schedule: Open Daily, 10 AM – 12 AM

Must-Try: Kūmara Fries

BurgerFuel defines the gourmet burger experience with its premium, fresh ingredients and unmistakable “rebel spirit.” 

This Kiwi-born brand demonstrates its focus on quality by using 100% grass-fed beef and free-range chicken. 

Their menu is extensive, featuring awesome plant-based options alongside its meat-based burgers.

You really have to get their Kūmara Fries every single time! Unlike other regular fries that lean on the salty side, theirs is a fusion of sweet and savoury that you can’t just always get anywhere. 

I also appreciate their focus on sustainability, right down to the compostable packaging and the “Doofer” to hold your burger. 

Because everything is gourmet and made to order with lots of customisations, it’s not as fast as a drive-thru, from a burger standpoint, so you should expect a short wait. 

But if you want your burgers a little more unique, BurgerFuel is a premium burger experience from start to finish.

Pros

  • Premium gourmet burgers with high-quality ingredients
  • Kiwi-owned and operated
  • Extensive options for plant-based/vegan diets
  • Strong focus on sustainability and eco-packaging
  • Must-try Kūmara Fries and aioli

Cons

  • Longer wait times than standard fast-food
  • Premium price point compared to chain rivals

Customer Reviews

Great food and service, a bit of an odd low grade commercial development, but inside is the trademark burgerfuel set up. Try the plant power options, they truly are awesome.
– Sandy Hall | Google Review

Great food and awesome service. When they’re busy can take bit of time before get order but once get the food is very nice and filling. I like how burger fuel uses free range chicken and 100% beef in their burgers. I would highly recommend. I also would like the ferrero rocher shake, banana chocolate and jafa shakes back.
– Lance Banton | Google Review