Our Favourite Spots To Dine Solo In Auckland

The Fed, aka Federal Delicatessen, is an old-school New York Jewish delicatessen; serving up the utmost delicious and authentic deli cuisine. Like any classic American-style diner, you can take a seat by the bar (perfect for solo diners) or settle into a booth and enjoy the experience. When we visit The Fed, we’re spoiled for choice from the spit-roast chicken to NY strip steak. However, it’s the Montreal poutine that stole our heart; there’s nothing that says comfort food quite like fries smothered in cheese curd and gravy, kick it up a notch and add pastrami – you won’t regret it. Satisfy your sweet-tooth cravings with a slice of The Fed famous NY cheesecake; it’s melt-in-your-mouth-divine.

Hello Beasty’s tapa style menu and small dishes are ideal for solo diners, indulge in an array of flavourful dishes that are sure to delight the taste buds. The contemporary modern fusion restaurant sits pretty on the Viaduct. The small and cosy venue is perfect for an after-work bite to eat. Hello Beasty’s potstickers are absolutely divine and a must-try when visiting the venue; the wagyu beef and mushroom potstickers are legendary with five-spice, coriander and crunchy chilli. Or try the unforgettable KFC: Korean fried cauliflower bite-sized pieces of heaven, lathered in a spicy gochujang glaze. If you’re after a larger dish, we recommend the slow-cooked coastal lamb shoulder.

If you’re new to solo dining, Hare and The Turtle is a great way to dip your toe in the water. This café and sandwich bar is a casual spot dedicated to good food and a strong brew. Sit down and enjoy the simplicity of a well-made sandwich on a lazy afternoon. There’s an art to creating the perfect sandwich, and it’s safe to say that Hare and The Turtle understood the assignment. A crowd favourite is Daisy with slow-cooked beef, melted Edam, pickled onion, burger sauce and mustard, served on organic white sourdough. You can’t go wrong with the V.B. this beauty is vegetarian friendly with a fried egg, melted USA cheese, a crispy hash brown and chutney.

For a quick coffee and snack before work or a lazy lunch, Chuffed is our inner-city oasis. Nestled in their secret spot on High Street, this café is the ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The quaint little café is great for solo visitors; treat yourself to a midday cocktail, a divine lunch or a morning brew. The Chuffed food menu sports an all-day breakfast line-up that’s to die for; eggs benny, big breaky, open omelettes and many more. For the lunch lovers, there’s also a mouth-watering sandwich selection, including beauties like the cheese toastie with provolone, vintage cheddar and a caramelised onion relish. You’ll also find a poached chicken sandwich, Cubano, Reuben and a vegan option.

If you’re after a delicious bowl of the finest Japanese ramen noodles in all of Auckland, look no further, Zool Zool is outstanding. The quaint and casual interior encourages smaller groups (larger groups can be accommodated for), this makes Zool Zool a great spot for solo diners. The little noodle house and Izakaya bar is tucked away in the heart of Mount Eden Village; alongside the renowned noodles, you’ll also find a show-stopping selection of traditional Japanese cuisine. Learn the art of slurp; this shows appreciation of taste, and trust us, you won’t be able to help yourself. It would be a crime to visit Zool Zool without trying the ramen, stick with a classic like the miso with pork mince, mung beans, carrot, onion and a chicken and miso broth. For something slightly different, opt for a zoolmen dish, pairing a reduced broth with noodles and veg, similar to pasta.