Amelia WilliamsIf you think “Bombay” is just a hill you drive over to get out of Auckland, you are seriously missing out.
Tucked away in this country setting is a surprisingly vibrant food scene, a nice change for a weekend escape or a cozy dinner.
Forget the city hustle for a day. We’re talking about everything from award-winning estate fine dining to some of the best burgers you’ll find on the motorway.
As a local foodie always on the hunt, I’ve been exploring the area to find the spots truly worth the drive. This guide is for fellow Aucklanders looking for a weekend treat, couples planning a special meal, or travellers who want authentic local food.
Here are the top 5 restaurants in Bombay, Auckland (and just nearby!) that you need to try.
How much does dining out cost in Bombay, Auckland?
Dining out in the Bombay area is pretty reasonable, with a good range of prices to match what you’re looking for.
For a casual lunch or cafe meal, you’ll likely spend between NZ$20 and $30 per person.If you’re sitting down for a proper dinner, most mains at local restaurants and pubs will set you back around NZ$25 to $40.
For a special occasion at a more high-end spot, like an estate restaurant, expect mains to start at NZ$40 and go up from there.
A hearty pub or cafe meal, like a big breakfast or burger, usually sits around the NZ$25 to $30 mark.
Bracu Restaurant (at Bracu Estate)
Website: https://bracu.co.nz/menus
Address: 49 Main Road, Bombay 2675
Contact: (09) 236 1045
Schedule:
Lunch: Thu-Sun: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Dinner: Thu-Sat: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Must-Try: Lamb Rump
Bracu is all about that “main character” dining experience. Set on a stunning 70-hectare olive grove, this is where you go to impress someone or celebrate a big milestone.
The vibe is pure Mediterranean escape, with a focus on estate-to-plate dining.
Walking through the olive trees to get to the restaurant really sets the mood. We went for our anniversary, and the team truly made it special, starting us with complimentary bubbles and a gorgeous goat cheese starter.
The lamb rump was cooked to perfection, and you can taste how fresh the estate-grown ingredients are.
The waiters were so knowledgeable about the menu, too. It’s really an unforgettable setting.
The only downside is their limited hours. They aren’t open every day (especially for dinner), so you absolutely need to book this one in advance, particularly for a weekend.
Customer Reviews
We went to Bracu to celebrate our 45th wedding anniversary. We got given free bubbles and a lovely goats cheese and brioche starter. The selection of food and the food itself was delicious beautifully prepared and presented. The service was great, such knowledgeable waiters. It was a lovely night and we were made to feel special.
- Julie Robertson | Google Review
Amazing location, fresh ingredients, very nice presentation and flavors a must visit restaurant pls add to your bucket list
- Tim Smith | Google Review
RE Burger Bombay
Website: https://order.reburger.co.nz/auckland-bombay
Address: 2038 Great South Road, Bombay, Auckland
Contact: (09) 558 9319
Schedule: Mon-Sun: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Must-Try: Great King & Holy Fries
RE Burger is a lifesaver and easily the best takeaway you can grab on the Bombay hills. This spot nails that classic, messy, food-truck-style best burgers but with gourmet touches.
People really rave about the secret sauce at this spot, and it really is a “flavour bomb.”
This is my go-to stop for a quick dinner, and I’m obsessed with the Great King burger. The beef patty is always juicy, and the fresh milk bun holds together surprisingly well.
Don’t even think about leaving without trying the Holy Fries. They’re hearty enough to be a meal on their own, and every bite is made with 100% pure beef.
The only catch? It’s not a clean eat. Grab a stack of napkins, because that secret sauce will drip everywhere (in the best way possible).
Customer Reviews
Best takeaways available on the bombay hills. Been there 2 or 3 times now and not had a bad brew of food. Whether fried chicken burgers are your jam or beef burgers, they’ll knock it out the park. Make sure to try the loaded fries!
- Brendan | Google Review
Genuinely great food and pricing. Customer service was 5/5 and would definitely recommend to anyone in the area. Will be coming again!
- Damanjit Nijjar | Google Review
Autobahn Cafe Bombay
Website: https://autobahncafe.co.nz/
Address: 216 Mill Road, Bombay 2247, Auckland
Contact: (09) 236 0060
Schedule: Mon-Sun: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Must-Try: The “BIG” Monster Breakfast
Autobahn is the quintessential Kiwi road trip stop, but far better than your average service station cafe. Everything here is made fresh on-site, and you can taste the difference.
It’s my go-to when I’m travelling through, and it’s a spot locals seem to really like. They have a huge selection in the cabinet that always looks fresh, plus a full kitchen menu.
I was genuinely impressed by their Bolognese on my last stop. It was a proper, hearty meal, not just a quick snack. The “BIG” Monster Breakfast is also legendary if you’re starting your day.
It’s so convenient, and the place is always clean with super cheerful staff, even at 6:00 AM. Just remember, they don’t offer delivery, so you’ll have to pop in for pickup, but it’s worth it.
Customer Reviews
3 times in 3 weeks. All the food on display was fresh & looked great. But we stuck with scrambled eggs on toast, fantastic. And large fat white coffee was creamy & great
Service staff are fantastic. We have recommended to our 🧡
- Alan Hewetson | Google Review
Had a most enjoyable Bolognese that was a decent sized feed for a hungry traveller. The premises were clean and tidy and staff friendly and cheerful. Will definitely be back to try something else on the menu.
- Dave Pearson | Google Review
Appetite
Website: https://www.appetite.co.nz/
Address: Shop 1/8 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe 2120
Contact: (09) 242 4242
Schedule:
Mon – Fri: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sat – Sun: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Must-Try: Scotch Fillet Steak
If you’re looking for a vibe, Appetite in nearby Pukekohe is absolutely worth the short drive. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a whole social hub with quiz nights, live music, and even Sunday car meetups.
I went for the first time recently and was blown away by the service and the food.
The Scotch Fillet steak was incredible, and the atmosphere was so welcoming that it instantly felt like a new local favourite.
The place was buzzing, and they had a great cocktail list to go with the live music. It’s not just dinner, it really feels like a full night out, but still casual enough for a weekend brunch, as they open early.
It’s definitely popular, though, so while they take walk-ins, I’d highly recommend booking a table to avoid missing out, especially on a Friday night.
Customer Reviews
First timer at the restaurant. Was very pleasantly surprised by the level of service & the food was absolutely wonderful. This will now be my new local to frequent. Would have to be the best dining experience I’ve ever had.
- Luke Parker | Google Review
Had dinner at Appetite in Pukekohe and was really impressed. The food was absolutely delicious flavourful, fresh, and beautifully presented. Service was excellent too: friendly, attentive, and welcoming. Highly recommend if you’re in the area!
- D Saini | Google Review
The India Restaurant & Bar
Website: https://theindiarestaurant.co.nz/
Address: 42 McDonald Road, Pōkeno 2402
Contact: (09) 233 6999
Schedule:
Mon: 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Tue: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Wed, Thu, Fri & Sun: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sat: 4:00 – 10:00 PM
Must-Try: Indian Butter Chicken
For a truly authentic Indian dining experience, The India in Pōkeno is my top pick in the area.
You can smell the entrees cooking on slow charcoal, and it makes all the difference. That charcoal smell hits you as soon as you walk in, and you know it’s legit.
They also have a huge range of both vegetarian and non-veg dishes.
We’ve been a few times, and the service is always a standout. One of the waiters, Amrit, was especially attentive and professional.
The mains are super generous with the meat, and the Butter Chicken is just delicious.
We always get the garlic naan, which is perfectly fluffy and charred. It’s become our go-to for a hearty, flavourful takeaway.
They have another branch in Tuakau, but just check the hours before you go, as they differ slightly between the two locations.
Customer Reviews
We have been a few times and thé service is excellent. I have never had a bad dish here and the mains are very generous with the meat and super delicious!! We will definitely be back!
- Sienna Vainikolo | Google Review
We had a wonderful time dining at The India, Pokeno! Amrit provided exceptional service.. so friendly, attentive, and professional. He made sure we were comfortable and well looked after the entire evening. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was great. Highly recommend this place!
- Jujhar Singh | Google Review
