Our Favourite Spots To Dine Al Fresco

Azabu knows how to make an impression; its menu woo-ed our palettes, and each location raised the bar for dining al fresco. This restaurant sets the stage for romantic meals for two and friendly catch-ups. Azabu Mission Bay is even more impressive; we recommend spending your summer dining in the sunny courtyard with stunning views of the water, a glass of wine in hand. Indulge in a variety of Peruvian-Japanese cuisine like the grilled octopus, tuna sashimi, kingfish ceviche or the volcano sushi roll. The latter pairs tiger prawn tempura with pickled daikon and huancaina mayo.

Park up on the beautiful Waiheke Island and visit one of our favourite spots, Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant. The garden bistro is everything you could ever dream of; the restaurant overlooks the sparkling waters of Hauraki Gulf, the ambience is romantic, and the courtyard sun-soaked. Take your crew on a day trip to the island for a cheeky wine tasting, or treat your significant other to a luxurious date; this location is in high demand over the summer season, and it’s understandable why. The cuisine showcases island delicacies and an abundance of seafood. When dining at the Archive Bistro, you are spoiled for choice with options like the ora king salmon, tiger prawn mousse and canter valley duck breast.

Parnell is a popular spot for quaint restaurants and elegant bars, so it comes as no surprise that it’s home to one of Auckland’s best pizzerias, Non Solo Pizza. The authentic Italian eatery has replicated the iconic courtyards straight out of Italy with green and white pinstripe seating, ideal for romantic nights out and intimate gatherings. The woodfired pizza is heavenly, the perfect ratio of crisp yet soft and loaded with cheesy goodness. The porchetta is a crowd favourite with slow-cooked pork belly, onion jam, mushrooms, rosemary and kale. Non Solo also has an array of Italian-inspired cuisine, including scampi linguine, braised meatballs, lobster crostini and so much more.

One of Dominion Road’s best-kept secrets is Tasca; this little restaurant flows into a beautiful and airy courtyard tucked away out the back. Tasca is an oasis from the hustle and bustle of city life, and it is the perfect spot for balmy nights and a great place to watch the sun go down. Step inside and instantly be transported to a sun-soaked restaurant in the heart of Spain. Enjoy a selection of tapa-style dishes, wood-fired pizza and signature Spanish dishes. We recommend the paella mixta with traditional saffron rice, morsels of fish, mussels, prawns, chorizo sausage and chicken.

What better way to dine al fresco than on a rooftop bar overlooking the Viaduct harbour? Dr Rudi’s is a legend in the making; there’s never a dull moment at this lively restaurant and bar. Secure yourself a seat on the highly coveted rooftop and watch the City of Sails in action, listen to the hum of activity below or simply enjoy the scenic view with a drink in hand. Dine upon a variety of fresh seafood, indulgent sharing platters, wood-fire pizzas and classic sharing dishes. A few must-tries are the twice-cooked pork bites (they melt in your mouth), crispy snapper wings and the jalapeno and brie poppers – beer-battered with Rudi’s lager, served with Bloody Mary sauce.