From indulgent Korean sweet treats to classic Vietnamese, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Chinese dishes, “free” walking food tours funded by the Auckland Council aim to reconnect locals with the central city as a culinary destination.
The tours run by Chow Luck Club will be led by food-obsessed former NZ Herald journalist Lincoln Tan and recently retired NZ Police ethnic responsiveness manager Jessica Phuang.
“One of the joys we’ve had working in the central city for many years was finding hidden gems for lunches and dinners, and we’re just excited about being able to share some of these with fellow food enthusiasts,” Jessica said.
“Food fosters social cohesion through shared experiences, and we are thrilled at this opportunity to have food not only as a bridge between diverse communities, but also a bridge between the CBD and the rest of Auckland.”
The team has spent the last few weeks putting together the tours, which would see groups experience the taste of four to five of 17 dining spots, learn the stories behind those dishes, and meet the people behind the plates.
The tours were “sold out” within hours of being made available for registration online, with requests from many to be put on a waiting list.
For those who have managed to get their hands on tickets, the eateries we will be visiting include:
Ekiben (Japanese) 16 Wellesley Street West
This premium Japanese-inspired takeaway located on Wellesley Street is brought to you by the creators of The Sushi Store. Following the success of their first location at Britomart Station, this second outpost continues to elevate grab-and-go dining in Auckland.
It draws inspiration from Japan’s iconic ekiben — train station bento boxes known for their quality and convenience — serving up fresh, flavour-packed meals crafted for busy city life.
Celine Mediterranean Cuisine (Mediterranean) 12 Darby Street
Celine is famous for its generous portions and bold Mediterranean flavours. Step inside and you’ll feel the welcoming vibe, with an atmosphere that’s full of Mediterranean charm.
The menu is packed with tasty options that showcase the best of Mediterranean cooking. Think juicy grilled meats, fresh crunchy salads, and loads of flavour in every bite. The grilled chicken shawarma is a crowd favourite—super tasty, generous on the portion, and easy on the wallet. And if you're after something hearty, the 300g rump steak hits the spot.
Burger Express (Fusion) Wilson Parking Elliott Street
From the spicy kick of ‘Queen Peri’ to the loaded goodness of the ‘Express Special’ to crunchy Loaded Fries, this little burger food truck is an awesome spot for burgers. Think juicy beef patties, crispy chicken, paired with signature sauces and creative toppings.
Fern Coffee (New Zealand) 47 Victoria Street West
Tailored for fast-paced city life, Fern lets you pre-order, personalize your order, and leave notes effortlessly via their sleek website or in-store kiosk. From expertly brewed Eightthirty coffee to energizing matchas, comforting teas, toasties, pastries, and berry bowls—there’s something for every craving. Indulge in savoury delights like the sourdough beef sandwich, treat yourself to a strawberry and cream Belgian waffle, or sip on a rich Spanish latte.
Uncle Man (Malaysian) 280 Queen Street
Uncle Man is where you’d find arguably New Zealand’s best freshly flipped and cooked roti canai. Its menu carries simple but authentic traditional dishes similar to those you would find on a side cart along the hustling bustling streets of Malaysia, from nasi lemak to laksa and mee goreng. They put plenty of soul and love into every single dish to tantalise taste buds with deliciously authentic Malaysian street food.
Nol Bu Ne (Korean) 10 Wellesley Street East
Nol Bu Ne offers authentic Korean food at very affordable prices, popular amongst students and city workers alike. From hearty bibimbap and delicious kimchi to sizzling bulgogi and irresistible steamed dumplings, you will be spoilt for choice at your new local.
Tandoor Indian Restaurant (Indian) 5/205 Elliott Street
Tandoor offers an authentic culinary journey through the flavors of India. Renowned for its exquisite blend of spices and vibrant dishes, The Tandoor offers an extensive menu featuring classic Indian delicacies. Whether you're craving creamy butter chicken, tender tandoori meats, or flavorful vegetarian options like paneer tikka, there's something to delight every palate.
Ban Deng Mian (Chinese)
Specialising in handmade flour-based noodles, this soon-to-open eatery has the potential to be another culinary star in the CBD.
Cinnamon Squared (Korean-New Zealand) 41 Victoria Street West
Cinnamon rolls baked fresh daily, with the finest organic Ceylon cinnamon, premium butter, and high-quality milk. These handcrafted rolls are made fresh and gone the same day. Indulge in a variety of flavours. There is something for everyone to enjoy.
Scarecrow (French-Mediterranean) 33 Victoria Street East One of the jewels in the city's crown for food lovers, Scarecrow is an an urban oasis serving fresh food and organic coffee, plus an extensive range of artisan grocery and gift items, and daily fresh flowers. Designed by award-winning architectural designer, Peter Were, it combines the feel of a European bistro and a distinct local farmers' market.
It is a spot where people can relax in a quietly sophisticated urban space while still being in touch with the natural environment, with Albert Park on the doorstep.
Dumpling House (Chinese) 11 Victoria Street East
Nestled on Victoria Street East, Dumpling House is a haven for lovers of authentic Chinese dumplings and buns. They specialize in handcrafted delicacies like pork buns and savory dumplings, blending time-honored recipes with fresh, local ingredients. Dumpling House serves up an unforgettable taste of traditional Tianjin-style cooking.
Mali Thai (Thai) 14 Darby Street
This hidden gem is known for its cozy charm where diners indulge in the culinary mastery of their famed hoy tod mussel omelette and award-winning Khao Soi. This is where you can find a delightful taste of Thailand in every bite.
Kara Deniz Cafe (Turkish) 31 Wellesley Street West
From kebabs and burgers to baklava and more, this family-run business sticks to the classics done well, with fresh, well-seasoned ingredients at its heart.
Nam Viet (Vietnamese) 21/25 Elliott Street
Nam Viet, the Vietnamese restaurant in Atrium on Elliot food court, is renowned for its authentic flavors and inviting ambiance, offering a delightful culinary journey through Vietnam's rich gastronomic heritage.
Scrunchy Millers (New Zealand) 49 Victoria Street West
Scrunchy Millers is a family operated ice cream shop. Bringing the love of Real Fruit ice cream to the CBD, it combines the most mouthwatering Real Fruit ice cream with the best gelato and sorbetto. A summer hot spot for ice cream, gelato, sorbets, cakes and more
Bagel Love (American) 141 Wellesley Street West
Bagel Love has been baking authentic, traditional, New York-style bagels since 2008. Inspired by the simple yet intricate process of New York bagels, the dough is carefully mixed, then shaped and placed in the fridge overnight to prove. They are then poached to give them the signature chewy outside and soft middle. Then baked, and served fresh, every day.
Little Tiger Dumpling (Chinese) 62A Federal Street
A little stall on Federal Street serves juicy dumplings that are packed with flavour. A must-try menu item is the 'three delicacies' with shrimp, pork, wood ear mushroom and bamboo shoots. There’s also delicious fried rice too, with chicken, pork and beef for meat lovers, squid and shrimp for seafood fanatics and mixed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
The free walking tours are funded by Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate. The tours will run on Saturday, 29 November at 10 am, 11:15 am, 1:15 pm, and 2:30 pm.
***This story is brought to you in collaboration with Auckland Council.
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