There’s just something special about dining with your family—it’s those shared laughs over a meal, the kids trying something new (and making that face), and the joy of simply being together.
I mean, who doesn’t love discovering a spot where everyone is happy? Whether you’re hunting for a restaurant that’s got a killer kids and family menu, a cozy ambiance that makes you feel right at home, or a place with the kind of food that leaves you raving, Auckland’s got plenty to offer.
We’re not just talking about average dinners out; we’re diving into the best family restaurants, the ones that turn ordinary meals into memorable experiences. So grab your appetite because we’re about to explore the best eats Auckland has for you and your family!
- Baduzzi, Wynyard
- Mexico (Multiple Locations: Britomart, Ellerslie, Ponsonby, Silverdale)
- Archie's Restaurant and Pizzeria
- La Porchetta
- Sugar Café at Chelsea Bay
- Prego
- The Heke Waiheke
- Blitza
- Bushmans Grill
- The Oyster Gallery near Ōrere Point
- Azabu (Mission Bay and Ponsonby)
- Non Solo Pizza
- DD’s Country Café, Waitoki
- Torpedo Bay Café, Devonport
Baduzzi, Wynyard
– Media from baduzzi
Address: 10-26 Jellicoe Street, North Wharf
Contact Details: +64 9-309 9339
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 12 PM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM
Saturday to Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM
Cost: $$
For handmade pasta lovers, Baduzzi is where you need to be. They serve up some of the best Italian-style meatballs in town, paired perfectly with rich, hearty sauces. The waterfront vibe adds that extra touch to your dining experience.
The dishes are all about fresh ingredients and classic flavors. Whether you’re digging into seafood or the house-made ravioli, each bite packs a punch. It’s the kind of place that makes you think about returning before you’ve even left.
Pro Tip: Ask for their rotating daily specials – it’s the chef’s way of keeping things interesting, and you might just score an off-menu delight. |
Mexico (Multiple Locations: Britomart, Ellerslie, Ponsonby, Silverdale)
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Address: Britomart – 23 Britomart Place
Contact Details: +64 9-366 1759
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 9 PM
Friday: 12 PM – 10 PM
Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Cost: $$
If you’re craving some spice, Mexico delivers bold flavors and fun. Tacos, quesadillas, and mouth-watering churros make the menu a hit with families. Their margaritas also steal the show – for parents needing that weekend wind-down.
Every location is slightly different in style but brings that eclectic, vibrant Mexican energy. The sharing-style plates make it super easy for you to taste a little bit of everything and keep everyone happy.
Pro Tip: Get there for Taco Tuesday – you’ll get some awesome deals that are way too good to pass up. |
Archie’s Restaurant and Pizzeria
– Media from archies_pizzeria
Address: 61 Davis Crescent, Newmarket
Contact Details: +64 9-523 5111
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Cost: $$
Archie’s is the place to go for authentic, wood-fired pizza with a twist. The crust is thin, the toppings are fresh, and the flavors transport you straight to Italy. Besides pizza, they also have plenty of pasta and antipasti options to keep everyone happy.
It’s got that lively, warm atmosphere perfect for family gatherings. Even better, their menu has plenty of kid-friendly choices, so you can enjoy a leisurely meal without any fuss.
Pro Tip: Try their Nutella dessert pizza – it’s a hit among kids and adults alike, and a sweet way to end your meal. |
La Porchetta
– Media from laporchetta
Address: 102-112 Hobson Street
Contact Details: +64 9-309 0801
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Cost: $$
With classic Italian dishes galore, La Porchetta is all about generous portions and that home-cooked feel. Their pizzas and pastas are a must, with a great selection that’s perfect for family dining. And don’t miss the garlic bread – it’s almost a meal on its own.
This spot is great if you’re looking for comfort food with a welcoming vibe. From vegetarian to meat-lover options, you’ll find something that fits your family’s tastes.
Pro Tip: Swing by for their early bird dinner special, where you can score deals on select pasta and pizza dishes. |
Sugar Café at Chelsea Bay
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Address: 100 Colonial Road, Birkenhead
Contact Details: +64 9-481 0744
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 3 PM
Cost: $$
Sugar Café is an absolute gem tucked away by the Chelsea Sugar Factory. From pancakes to fresh salads, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Plus, it’s got a sweet view overlooking the Waitematā Harbour – perfect for brunch.
This café is kid-friendly, and you’ll find they have an entire menu dedicated to little ones. After a delicious meal, walk around Chelsea Bay – it’s ideal for stretching those legs and soaking in the views.
Pro Tip: Try their baking classes – an interactive way to make your meal more memorable, especially for the kids. |
Prego
– Media from prego
Address: 226 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby
Contact Details: +64 9-376 3095
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM
Cost: $$
This Auckland institution has been around since the ‘80s and still delivers. Prego’s Italian dishes are packed with flavor, and their thin-crust pizzas are legendary. It’s the kind of spot where you can have a laid-back family lunch or a celebratory dinner.
Their menu is varied, so whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat dishes, or veggies, Prego’s got you. There’s even a dedicated kid’s menu for those picky eaters in your group.
Pro Tip: Book a table in advance on weekends – this place fills up fast, especially for dinner. |
The Heke Waiheke
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Address: 58 Heke Road, Waiheke Island
Contact Details: +64 9-372 9007
Opening Hours: Friday to Sunday: 12 PM – 9 PM
Cost: $$
A short ferry ride away from the city, The Heke is an amazing family-friendly spot on Waiheke Island. It’s got a laid-back vibe, open spaces for the kids to roam, and a hearty menu that showcases locally-sourced ingredients. Think BBQ plates, fresh seafood, and delicious desserts.
The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying those Waiheke views while digging into tasty eats. And since it’s on the island, it makes for a little family getaway.
Pro Tip: Try one of their craft beers brewed on-site – a treat for parents while kids enjoy a juice from the bar. |
Blitza
– Media from blitza.pizza
Address: 307 Beach Road, Campbells Bay
Contact Details: +64 9-410 7077
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 5 PM – 9 PM
Cost: $$
Blitza is all about bringing Mediterranean flavors to your family’s plate. You’ll find classics like wood-fired pizzas, hearty pastas, and fresh salads. The servings are generous, so everyone’s appetite will be satisfied by the time you leave.
The vibe is low-key yet vibrant, perfect for a casual dinner with the family. The pizzas are cooked to perfection, with crispy crusts and flavorful toppings that are hard to beat. Don’t skip out on their specialty sauces – they add a tasty twist!
Pro Tip: Go for their early bird deal – you can enjoy a meal at a great price when dining between 5 PM and 6 PM. |
Bushmans Grill
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Address: 31 Northcote Road, Hillcrest
Contact Details: +64 9-418 3414
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 5 PM – 10 PM
Cost: $$
Steak and ribs are the stars at Bushmans Grill, making it a meat lover’s dream. They serve up South African-inspired dishes that are full of flavor and spice. For families looking for a no-fuss, hearty meal, this spot’s got you covered.
The menu has everything from juicy steaks to grilled chicken and fresh salads. You can also opt for their sharing platters if you want to try a bit of everything, making it easy for the whole family to enjoy.
Pro Tip: Their ‘Bushman’s Feast’ is perfect for sharing and lets you sample a mix of their best dishes without breaking the bank. |
The Oyster Gallery near Ōrere Point
– Media from oystergallerymumbles
Address: 50 Koheroa Road, Orere
Contact Details: +64 9-292 8833
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Cost: $$
Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! The Oyster Gallery serves some of the freshest oysters you’ll find in the area. Whether you like them raw, grilled, or in chowder, they’ve got it covered—perfect for a family day out, especially if you’re up for a coastal drive.
The setting is relaxed and family-friendly, allowing you to take in the surrounding nature while enjoying some top-notch seafood. Plus, you can also grab oysters to-go for a later feast at home.
Pro Tip: Make sure to ask about their daily catch – they often have special deals on fresh seafood that’s not listed on the menu. |
Azabu (Mission Bay and Ponsonby)
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Address: Mission Bay – 44 Tamaki Drive
Contact Details: +64 9-393 5667
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM
Cost: $$$
Azabu serves up a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors – definitely a treat if you’re after something a little different. From their sashimi platters to crispy pork buns, there’s a little something for everyone in your family to enjoy.
Each dish is beautifully presented and packed with flavors that will leave you wanting more. You can expect a mix of unique flavors from ceviche to sushi rolls, offering a more adventurous dining experience.
Pro Tip: Head over for their lunch menu – you’ll get some of their popular dishes at more affordable prices. |
Non Solo Pizza
– Media from nonsolopizzaparnell
Address: 1052/259 Parnell Road, Parnell
Contact Details: +64 9-379 5358
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM
Cost: $$
This Italian gem is all about authentic, hearty dishes. Non Solo Pizza boasts a mix of freshly made pizzas, pasta, and antipasti that hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to order multiple dishes to share with the family.
It has a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that’s great for long, leisurely dinners. Their outdoor courtyard seating is especially inviting on a sunny day, adding a nice al fresco vibe to your meal.
Pro Tip: Try their wood-fired oven pizzas – they’re made with simple ingredients but pack big flavors that are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. |
DD’s Country Café, Waitoki
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Address: 2 Factory Road, Waitoki
Contact Details: +64 9-420 4086
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 4 PM
Cost: $$
DD’s Country Café feels like you’re stepping into a cozy countryside nook. Their menu is all about homemade comfort food, from big breakfasts to hearty pies and fresh sandwiches. A great stop if you’re on a family road trip or just looking for a laid-back lunch.
It’s got a rustic, welcoming vibe that’ll make you feel right at home. Their coffee is top-notch too, making it an ideal spot to fuel up for the day while the kids enjoy the tasty treats on offer.
Pro Tip: Check out their takeaway bakery section – they have fresh baked goods that you can take with you for a picnic or snack later. |
Torpedo Bay Café, Devonport
– Media from die_
Address: 64 King Edward Parade, Devonport
Contact Details: +64 9-445 5186
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 3 PM
Cost: $$
Torpedo Bay Café is located right next to the Navy Museum, making it a great combo visit with the family. The café offers fresh pastries, hot meals, and great coffee, with stunning views of the bay to boot. There’s even a playground nearby to keep the kids entertained.
With its relaxed vibe, it’s an ideal spot for a weekend breakfast or lunch. Enjoy their outdoor seating area overlooking the water – it adds a nice touch to your family dining experience.
Pro Tip: Visit during the early morning for a more peaceful experience and to snag the best seats with views over the harbor. |