3 Best Restaurants in City Center and Parnell, Auckland

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We've compiled the best of the best in City Center and Parnell - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Cibo

$$$$ | Parnell Fodor's Choice

When you're in the mood for superb, innovative food with flavors from around the globe, head to Cibo, whose name means "good food" in Italian; it's apt for this restaurant, which has been around since 1994. It's the one of the places visiting stars go to, in part for its superb and discreet service. This is a popular venue for weddings and important parties, so book well in advance.  

91 St. Georges Bay Rd., Auckland, 1052, New Zealand
09-303–9660
Known For
  • Alfresco courtyard dining in season
  • Exceptional wine list
  • The best place for a long lunch
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch Sat.

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Chuffed

$$ | City Center

One of High Street's best kept-secrets is this tiny café with a courtyard hidden down a corridor. Swing by for coffee or an herbal tea, a sweet treat, or other fare from small items to more substantial; you can start your day with eggs on toast or a croissant packed with ham and cheese. If you want more, go for the chicken burger or pappardelle.  Also on offer are boutique soft drinks.

Scarecrow

$$ | City Center

The owners, who live in the city, wanted good coffee, artisan products, and flowers close by, so that was the genesis of Scarecrow in 2014 as a café that is also an everyday farmers market and a florist. The coffee in this high-ceilinged, light-wood-lined space is superb, and the food, as in many places in the city, is built on fresh local produce. After your excellent coffee and a pastry, you can pick up olive oil, honey, and cheese, and flowers if you are meeting up with friends. It's busy (especially at lunch), a bit noisy, and tables are available inside and out.  

Recommended Fodor's Video