This August, Auckland’s city centre transforms into a dining destination like no other, as Heart of the City Auckland Restaurant Month returns for its milestone 15th year.
Running from 1–31 August, the 2025 edition is the most ambitious yet, featuring 100+ participating restaurants, 20+ bespoke events, a record number of chef collaborations, and the return of its popular set price menus across $30, $45, and $55+ price points.
Restaurant Month is more than a celebration of food – it’s a strategic driver for the city’s hospitality sector during the quieter winter months. “For 15 years, Restaurant Month has brought our city centre to life in the most delicious way,” says Heart of the City Chief Executive, Viv Beck. “It’s about highlighting the talent, diversity and innovation that define Auckland’s dining scene.”
Signature Events: Global Collaboration Meets Local Flair
This year’s programme is packed with exclusive one-night-only events, showcasing both homegrown talent and international culinary stars:
- Icebergs at Soul Bar (6 August): Sydney’s famed Icebergs Dining Room & Bar brings coastal elegance to Auckland’s waterfront. Head Chef Alex Prichard and Beverage Director Matty Opai team up with Soul Bar for a four-course menu, signature cocktails, and Soul’s signature energy.
- The Burnt Butter Table x Esther (12 August): Food blogger Emilie Pullar joins forces with Sean Connolly at Esther for a handmade pasta dinner party with a roaming cocktail cart, stories, and shared plates.
- Speakeasy Soirée at La Zeppa (16 August): Jazz, mystery, and fine food collide in this 1920s-themed immersive theatre dinner, complete with actors, cocktails and a four-course menu.
- Advieh x Gareth Stewart & Robin Wagner (27 August): A bold six-course collaboration between Auckland’s Gareth Stewart and Adelaide’s Robin Wagner, blending local produce with modern Australian edge.
Culinary Passport Series: Dine the World in One Night
New for 2025, the Culinary Passport Series invites guests on progressive dinners across three venues themed around different cuisines:
- Passage to India (14 August): A spice-rich journey through Times of India, Goat, and 1947 Eatery.
- Around the World at Commercial Bay (20 August): Middle Eastern, European, and gastropub fare across Advieh, Reign & Pour, and Queens Rooftop.
- Feast from the East (21 August): Japanese-Korean fusion, bold street food, and Thai vegan dishes from Seoul Night, Mad Samurai and Khu Khu Eatery.
Each trail offers a four-course menu with matched drinks and surprise elements, bringing a sense of adventure to the dining table.
Novel Food Experiences: From Taco Classes to Treasure Hunts
Aucklanders and visitors can take part in hands-on workshops, walking tours, and immersive experiences designed to highlight the vibrancy of the central city:
- Tacoteca Masa Class (3 August): A tortilla-making workshop with Chef Ivan, margaritas included.
- K-Culture & Cuisine (8 August): Korean street food meets K-pop performances at Hazy Tiger.
- Sunday Truffle Lunch at Bossi (10 August): A decadent Italian-inspired celebration of truffle season.
- Tacoteca Little Chefs Edition (17 August): A fun and flavourful cooking class for families.
- The Great Noodle Run (23 August): A citywide scavenger hunt with noodle dishes at every clue.
High-Touch Dining: Chef-Led and Theatrical
Restaurant Month also features intimate and interactive formats like:
- Trust the Chef at Beast & Butterflies: A surprise seasonal three-course menu paired with wines.
- Front Row Experience at Trivet: An 11-seat dinner led by Executive Chef Wallace Mulese, offering a degustation menu and storytelling.
- High Tea at St Alice (weekends): Harbour views and bottomless teapot cocktails alongside elevated bites.
Set Price Menus: Affordable Indulgence Across the City
Back by popular demand, the set price menu series brings diners into 100+ restaurants citywide. With options across $30, $45, and $55+, it offers accessible entry points into some of Auckland’s top dining rooms including Ahi, Cassia, Hello Beasty, and more. It’s an ideal chance for locals and visitors to explore new venues without breaking the bank.
Why Restaurant Month Matters
Launched in 2010 to counteract the winter slump, Restaurant Month has evolved into one of New Zealand’s premier hospitality events. It draws people into the city, supports local businesses, and showcases the creative heart of Auckland’s food scene. It’s also a crucial calendar anchor for hospitality operators looking to boost mid-year revenue while highlighting their culinary offering to a wide, engaged audience.
“Restaurant Month gives us an opportunity to connect with new diners, try new concepts, and be part of a city-wide celebration,” says one participating chef. “It’s about community, creativity and momentum.”
Key Dates:
Whether you’re hosting, collaborating or just seeking new flavours, Restaurant Month 2025 provides an opportunity to connect with the vibrant, hospitality at the heart of Auckland city.