Wheels crunching up the gravel, the Tasting Shed looked sophisticated in black. Dining tables that…read morespilled out into the outdoor area are wrapped by the wind + rain proof outdoor gazebo. Everything about it oozed warm comfort and rustic charm. You wouldn't hear the quiet clinking of cutlery on plates and humble conversation here. It was a strict "no-tablecloths" restaurant. And these beautiful wooden tables probably take 5 times more work to maintain. My after-work brain probably took more time than necessary to figure out what the bobbles meant on the Savory to Sweet scale on the menu. With 25 items on the menu (including dessert), it was difficult to nail down what to order. We were advised to order 4 to 5 dishes because they were all entree sizes. Watermelon - smoked olive, goats cheese, baby ganoush This was one surprising combination. I've always been one to systematically eat my way through my plate because I didn't like mixing things together. Give me a fruit and cheese platter, I'd eat each individually. But this is something you'd want to pile a bit of each onto your fork. The watermelon and goats cheese blend beautifully into a creamy smoothie in your mouth. Rich and cooling at the same time - it's a weird sensation. Venison - carpaccio, mushrooms, beets, juniper, walnuts This is a great well-thought out dish with plenty to leave you taste testing, tilting your head and thinking. It was called the Venison dish, and with so much going on, the venison was the solid foundation to bring out the flavours of each ingredient. The sweet tang and slick texture of the mushrooms was paired with the crunch of the walnut and hokey-pokey chunks. We had fun melting the walnut powder on our tongues and poking at the different elements on the dish. The hokey pokey was not your average golden syrup variety but was made with beetroot juice - so even with this explosion of textures, everything blends together. After a mini degustation, one shared sweet dessert was enough! The rosewater was not an understatement - the scent was clear, and sweet, followed by an even sweeter strawberry parfait. It had a subtle summer breeze to this dish and the strawberry parfait an excellent substitute for your average ice cream. The saffron leaves a distinct after taste and cures the dish from being too sweet. With the popularity of restaurants that let you put elbows on tables, tablecloths are stripped away to make way for our laid-back Kiwi culture. If you're looking for a sweet candle-lit dinner, there's other fine-dining restaurants in Auckland CBD. But I'm loving this fusion of casual and fine at The Tasting Shed. The service doesn't make you feel like you're a VIP but more like your host that invited you to their house for dinner. So if you're looking for an excuse out of the city, make this your first stop!

Great tasting summer brunch/lunch place. Beautifully decorated with soft lighting and wooden…read morefurniture. Option to eat indoors or outdoors. Kitchen closed at 1500 to 1700 for dinner prep although small plates are served during that time. European cuisine with heavy Asian influence, think daikon, kimchi, even asam laksa (the Asian snob in me couldn't bring myself to order this). We had the market ceviche (good but we prefer this with a bit more punch), kimchi Mac & cheese (odd pairing which I enjoyed) and the Lamb Shoulder (fantastic!)

Excellent food and service. Seating could have been a bit better however I think they were setting…read moreup for an event.

The Brigham is just great and I am instantly a fan, its the kind of place you would make a special…read moretrip to get to, especially in the warmer months. They are popular for weddings and functions. The restaurant is set on some lovely gardens, so after your lunch you can go and walk in these lovely gardens and hopefully work off some of the calories, if not just grab a picnic rug and lie in the sun for a bit. The food is lovely and fresh, I had the fish and prawns and my husband had the steak and prawns, both dishes were very nice and melt in your mouth cooked to perfection. The service is also great, the owners are very friendly and come and check on you often. I would definitely come here again especially for something special.

This restaurant has been around for ages and it still draws in the crowds, day and night. If you've…read moreever eaten here you will know why, the food is amazing and the atmosphere is laid back. Totally suitable to the laid back Westie lifestyle. We booked in recently for a family get-together and everyone from grandma to the five year old loved the experience. Surf and turf menu with plenty of kiddy meals to keep the littlies happy. The steaks are really great, the majority in our group placed such an order. I like the fire pit in the waiting area with the comfy couches, a nice place to have a drink if you are still waiting on your table.

Was at Tony's restaurant in Henderson just last night and had the worst experience ever! We waited…read morefor more then two hours for the whole Special Set Menu to be served and ended up having to take the dessert home (not normally allowed) because we couldn't wait any longer. To wait that long just for the food to taste like it had been zapped in a microwave is ridiculous. Entrees: Spare ribs were crispy burnt and black/dry on the corners then drowned in sauce, what was supposed to be Cheese and bacon wedges turned out to be just Wedges with the sour cream & salsa on side bowls to fill up the plate, Seafood Chowder was full of chopped up celery more then any seafood and not very creamy at all. Mains: Lamb shanks fell away easy off the bone but again drowned in yuck sauce that killed it, the spinach and mash again zapped in a microwave. Chicken supreme was dry and plonked on the plate with the sides looking like they were recycled from a previous meal, Eye fillet Mignon was probably the only best looking meal but failed as a 'well done request'. Children's Menu: Bangers 'n Mash was disgusting the sausages tasted off! peas looked and tasted like they were still frozen, mash had some kind recycled soy sauce spread over it, Ice-cream Sundae looked like mock cream with a line of chocolate syrup. The Manager on duty at the time came over and demanded we pay for drinks on top of the Special Set Menu because this was part of the conditions, this was addressed after we were half way through our meal!! Very unprofessional in front of our whole family blaming and cursing the waiter and scared our kids that she stood over, she apologized after but doesn't excuse us having to put up with the whole ordeal for more then 2 hours!! Disappointed. Especially after we found out the Owner is also the Head Chef.

The Icon restaurant is the one based with Bar 159 in the Lincoln Green complex in Henderson. It's a…read moregood place to come for food if there is something on in the Trusts Stadium or the Te Pai centre across the road. I have only ever been here for lunch so cannot comment on the dinner menu. They also do a breakfast menu but there are only about 5 options (all with eggs) and it's very limited. The food we had was pretty enjoyable and good value. My wife got a kumara and pumpkin salad which she liked and I got bacon pasta which was fine too. What struck me was that meat main course were almost $30 each - I thought that was a bit over the top for West Auckland. The dinner menu is also a bit on pricey side and the desserts are $12.50 each. A pretty good place to eat but I think the prices should be more reasonable and they could do with more choice if they want to attract people for breakfast.

The old Tin Soldier now rehouses United Kitchen. The entrance is hidden down Anglesea Street, and…read moreone would think they are walking into the wrong entrance into the kitchen in this intimate little restaurant. It only seats about 30 and has a few cool booth seats for small groups. My group of 11 had arranged the set menu which regulars have got used to from the first owner where its $54 for 3 courses. By the time you would have read what I had to eat the menu would have changed as they specialise in what is in season. I chose the Pork cheek with seared scallops which had me worried I would be hungry even after 3 courses as it was very tiny. I definitely felt like I was having a degustation fine dining, the presentation was lovely. Then my main of Miso glazed Market fish with parsnip puree, smoked mushroom and bok choy had me excited. It was the most flavoursome dish I have had for ages and so perfectly balanced. A side of Brussel sprouts was great to sop up my puree. For dessert Yuzu curd with white chocolate sorbet and poached quince was a perfect pallet cleanser and a lovely ending. 3 courses with a side was plenty big enough for me - a female. Maybe a little small for my male friend with a healthy appetite. The wine menu was a little limiting; I loved the little wine bar with sink used as a champagne wine bucket. The only downside was the noise from the adjoining bar 151 when the band started up. I'd go again to see what delectable treats were next in store though.

I tend to steer away from using the word "hidden gem" for restaurants because it's used so loosely…read more But I can't help but believe United Kitchen is one to put down on your foodie bucket list if you haven't heard about it already. Finding the door to United Kitchen can be a little adventure on its own. As long as you're alert that it's a bit of an Alice in Wonderland trip, you'll notice the hanging sign on the door from Anglesea Street in Ponsonby. We pushed the door boldly only to stumble back a little as it leads straight into the United Kitchen kitchen. It's a little strange, it'll make you feel a little taken back, but you'll soon be reassured by the nearest chef. As a small restaurant, it's highly advisable to book. It seemed quiet at our dinner friendly time of 6:30pm but within half an hour, the house was filled up. Not to worry about having tables so close that you feel like you have to flash a friendly smile at your neighbours. The tables are angled and spaced out enough so you can have intimate or inappropriate conversations without sideway looks from your friendly neighbours. United Kitchen is famous for the fixed $55 three course menu that lets you pick any of the entrees, mains and desserts for the flat rate. It's a step up from $45 when it first opened but still worth it for the calibre of food. The menu changes regularly to accomodate for the locally sourced and seasonal food ingredients. Wild mushroom gnocchi with hazelnut with swiss chard was my choice of entree. A great call if you love mushrooms like me. Eat it slowly and savour the dish with just enough on it to satisfy the hunger, but make you wish that you could re-order the gnocchi as your full main. While on a different day I would have opted for the beetroot risotto, I couldn't resist the sound of the braised beef cheek with smoked potato puree, pickled red cabbage, brocollini and almond. Ahh, the touch of a beautiful cooked beef cheek that falls apart delicately in the mouth. The sauce was a little enthusiastic and the pickled red cabbage made my tastebuds zoom in the other direction but that was somewhat offset by the potato puree. Otherwise water glasses were promptly refilled. For dessert I had the yuzu curd with white chocolate sorbet and poached quince. I also had a generous spoonful of the bitter chocolate mousse with citrus salad, yoghurt foam and hazelnut crumble. The chocolate wins without a doubt. It wasn't too rich like most chocolate desserts. I wished there was an extra dollop of the dark chocolate mousse though, it was that good. Thumbs up for United Kitchen. The food is quality and thoughtful. Being a step away from the central Ponsonby buzz, it's perfect if you want a more private dinner before drinks with friends.

Phil's Kitchen is great, something different, both ambitious and delicious, and the staff are…read morefriendly and chatty. Phil Clark, who worked under Michael Meredith and his front of staff partner (that has worked in a Michelin restaurant in Paris) now backs him in his new restaurant in little old NZ. Phil is happy to come out of the kitchen and chat to you after your meal which is a nice touch. While the setting says neighbourhood bistro with the quaint vege/herb garden out the back, the food is fine, modern and French. I ordered the scallops which came with crunchy kale, cauliflower puree and an amazing snow made of duck crackling (which I had to actually enquire about as I had no idea what it was). Apparently it is a mistake that Phil once made that ended up being a creative non-mistake he now serves. My duck served with potato dauphinois, baby beets, leek and raspberries with a dulce puree and sauce was absolutely to die for. My Lemon Meringue was unfortunately deconstructed and I am so over crumbs on a plate, I really dreamt of a lovely wedge. When will the fad finally be over?! However the flavour was good. I certainly ordered the correct Entrée and Main and I will be back. Considering the menu changes regularly and has already in 2 weeks since I went, I will be trying the menu regularly. Awesome work Phil, what a great edition to Kingsland.

I'm really impressed with this newly opened bistro in Kingsland. Classically trained and returning…read morehome with his lovely French partner, this is Phil's chance to shine. And he does, with well executed plates of seasonal and exciting food. He's having fun in the kitchen and his technical ability shows with lots of unusual flavours and cooking processes. I had the crispy pork belly starter, the silkiest confit of salmon for a main, a side of dauphinoise potatoes and oh the shame... we ordered all three desserts! Don't judge - how are you supposed to choose between salted caramel doughnuts, the lemon, white chocolate meringue with raspberry or the mandarin & liquorice? All were delicious and yes, people may have stared but chef gave us the thumbs up!

Great bar, great food, great ambiance! I tagged along with a co-worker to see her friend's new…read moreestablishment in the Ponsonby area, and it was immediately someplace that I wanted to frequent. They have a wonderful selection of wine and food and the staff is genuinely lovely. Our food and libations came out right away and all were equally delicious. Anthony and Benjamin are wonderful hosts and we can't wait to spread the news to our Hawaii friends to come and see what this place is about!!

Good ambience with neutral tones and leather. Prompt service and good selection of wine and…read morecocktails. Small platters looked delicious and there's a good selection of snacks. Plenty of people in here for an after work drink at 5:30pm on a Thursday!!

I admit when I went to The Falls recently for breakfast, I had no idea it was an award-winning…read morerestaurant. I just thought it was a cute old building on the edge of a nice reserve. Though this is true, it wasn't until I told my boyfriend I'd been there that I learnt it is famous. Having won awards for their quality meat and presentation, as well as peoples' choice awards including the 'Gold Plate' in 2012, The Falls is known to the majority of West Aucklanders as the best place to eat. I'm not sure if I would go quite so far as to say it was my best meal ever, but I did really enjoy my experience at The Falls. I sat out in the newly renovated courtyard with a pot of tea and a ham cheese and tomato omelette. The ambience was lovely, the wait-service was brilliant and the food was delicious - what more could you ask for? Tip: The Falls also caters for large groups and business meetings, and though I cannot say this from personal experience, I believe they would do a brilliant job at hosting such events and can't imagine anyone being disappointed with the food or the service.

I've been here for a special treat lunch and sat alfresco with a lovely view of the park. The food…read morewas brilliant and the service was first class so they don't get all of those awards for nothing! I have also been here for a special occasion booking, upstairs in the function room. This was an intimate space for our celebration and we were well looked after. Again the food - a three course meal - was outstanding and the wine list excellent. The Falls do great coffee any time of day, take out in the mornings but make sure to pay for parking in the adjacent 'pay and display' area as you would not want to be stung with a ticket like I was!

I believe this is now The Bridgman. It was great! Great…read moreatmosphere, lovely beer selection, and though we didn't eat much the food at other tables looked really good. If I were staying another night in Auckland I would go back for their burgers.

Located on the corner of Valley Road and Dominion Road, The Dominion is the perfect place to meet…read morefriends for an after work drink, watch the rugby or share a meal with the family. The meals are fantastic, and the portions are huge. I'm a fan of their pizza range and must say last time I had their hamburger I fell in love. It was delicious, though definitely too big for me! Even my Dad had trouble finishing it, but it's good to know you get your money's worth! Heineken is on tap at The Dominion, though the bar has a large selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available, so there is definitely something for everyone. While there is plenty of indoor seating, my favourite spot at The Dominion is outside. There are about eight outside tables, two of which are really big and perfect for meals with a group of friends or the family. During summer it's great to sit outside in the heat, but even in winter it's not too bad as there are outdoor heaters above the tables too Tip: There is a room upstairs with a separate bar and outdoor area that can be hired for private functions. Having attended many 21st parties there, I can say with all honesty it is the perfect venue. Not to mention there is a curtain of fairy lights, so that's a definite bonus!

In my humble opinion, the best fish and chips out West. Been coming here for several years and have…read morenever got a bad meal. They do a really good batter with the fish and I think that's what makes it good. Service is always very prompt - when we ring in an order, it's always waiting for us when we arrive. Their hot chips are good quality and they always give us a generous portion. They do a range of Chinese food too here and it is also quite good - considerably better than some of the rival takeaways in the neighbourhood. The Roberts Road location of these shops is quite popular with people on the weekends but you can generally get a park. There's a good selection of eateries here (Dominos, a bakehouse, Thai etc) but I reckon Blue Lagoon is probably the best of them. Make sure, if you get fish and chips, you get snapper as it's the best quality.