Think you need to head into the city for great food? Think again. The North Shore is quietly serving up some of the most delicious, affordable eats around – if you know where to look. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, a cosy dinner spot, or somewhere that supports a great cause along the way, this list has you covered. Grab your appetite – here are the spots that deliver flavour, value and a little local magic.
Eden Noodles, Albany
A not-so-secret gem, the Albany branch of the popular authentic Chinese Eden Noodles chain boasts some of the best dan-dan noodles, cucumber salad and dumplings in Auckland, at a staggeringly cheap price. For less than $15, you can treat yourself to a hearty meal that will leave you satisfied and tingling with that classic Sichuan spice.
Ramen Takara, Browns Bay
Find this affordable, well-frequented Japanese spot nestled right next to the beach in Browns Bay. Hailed for its $14 shoyu ramen, this spot has been serving up high-quality Japanese cuisine since 2007, with a very loyal fan base.
Chu Long Ji, Wairau Valley
Xiao long bao. Soup dumplings. Meal under $25. Need I say more?
Chef Rasa Sayang, Birkenhead
Classic Malaysian hawker – think cheap, tasty, well-portioned eats from the streets of Penang. Whether you decide on the nasi lemak, laksa, rendang, mee goreng or more, authentic deliciousness and bang for your buck is guaranteed.
Flourish Café, Takapuna
Owned by a local charity, Project Employ, this lovely café serves delicious small bites and coffee, perfect for your morning tea break. Flourish Café is New Zealand’s first establishment specifically set up to support, train and employ young adults with learning disabilities, making it an excellent spot for a treat while supporting a local business with an awesome cause.
Vondel, Devonport
Well worth the drive down Lake Road, Vondel caters to meat eaters and vegans alike. Stylish interior and serving a menu that never disappoints, Vondel is a lovely spot to enjoy the winter sunshine, sip on a bevvy, hang out with resident dog Kurtis, and occasionally be treated to some live music and seriously cool events. It’s a great place to support a locally owned and operated business.
Devonport Indian Hub, Devonport
The best curry spot I have been to on the North Shore – it continues to be a family favourite again and again. Service is superb, from the kindest owners. Fragrant curries for a competitive price. And to top it off… it's BYO. Too good.
Lil Ragu, Takapuna
In my experience, a well-done Italian without a hefty price tag can be hard to come by on the North Shore. Despite its small size, Lil Ragu has a fantastic range of authentic Italian favourites, impeccable service and reasonable prices. It is tucked away in a permanent food truck setting on Northcroft Street – the best spot for handmade pasta.
Channel Mag's youth contributors, Ellie Brown and Fantasia Nair bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz, and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.
