NZ NEWS: Auckland's Top 10 Dating Restaurant Favourites
So what’s the best Auckland dating hot spot – the favourite, ‘must go’ place that is suitable for those looking for great dating in Auckland locations?
So far, the MatchmakerNZ/Facebook quest to find the best has shown Al Brown’s Depot to be the place to be, which is slightly surprising because it’s a noisy restaurant not necessarily ideally suited to the quiet, romantic dinner.
But – there again – many people are looking for a ‘buzzy’ noisy atmosphere and not just the quietude of a velvet-curtained restaurant to deliver roses to a potential loved-one.
So here are some provisional results from our list of Auckland dating favourite or most-recommended ‘hot spots’ for dating.
1. DepotEatery and Oyster Bar – Noisy and no bookings taken, this is the current top choice. To be avoided on the Friday night unless you move away from the suits, but a great atmosphere and a buzz that will h elp propel your date towards the next step – or the last.
2. Orbit – the Sky City 360 degree restaurant that revoles once every hour. A romantic and fun outing where the city is literally at your feet.
3. Galatos – both an atmospheric and intimate venue, with three levels each with their own identity. An intimate upstairs lounge with comfy seating and log fire, the ballroom with stage, lofty ceilings and original parquet sprung dance floor.
4. Occidental - just off Queen Street, The Occidental Hotel was opened on 2nd July 1870 by American sailorand became famous as one of Auckland’s best hotels. In 1999 the historic building was transformed into the first authentic Belgian Beer Café in the Southern Hemisphere.
5. The Grill – Sean Connolly’s upmarket restaurant for great food. Another buzzy atmosphere like Al Brown’s place.
6. Soljans Estate Winery – Kumeu – the Estate is a great venue with great food and wine and a place to travel to if you have more time.
7. LaZeppa – Very popular at present, located in Freemans Bay and very trendy with a terrific wine list and great tapas. A fun night out for dating.
8. Tabac – Great wine, again and also a standard in Auckland. Located in Mills Lane it has a great intimacy and service – two of the dating essentials.
9. Clooney – Another Freemans Bay addition with changing menus and top quality, combined with the necessary romantic ‘x’ factor.
10. The French Cafe – aah, of course. How can any dating venue in Auckland miss the French Cafe with its low-key, high-service, top quality fine dining. Always a pleasure and an Auckland institution.