Johnny P.'s
Best Milkshakes
- 110Fred's Espresso & Soda BarPonsonbyThe first time I tried Fred’s salted caramel milkshake I was walking down the street with it in a takeaway cup. It was so good I lost concentration and walked into one of those hanging flower baskets - now that’s a seriously good milkshake - almost good enough to knock a grown man out (in the best way possible). If salted caramel isn’t your jam, then perhaps go for the chocolate fish, apple pie, classic vanilla, or incredible earl grey options? I’m seriously serious about these milkshakes made from organic homemade syrups.
- 257MoustacheAuckland CentralSometimes it can be a little hectic and stressful walking around Auckland’s CBD. But then you go to Moustache Milk & Cookie Bar for a shake and break (#catchy) and EVERYTHING is ok again! Malteser shake? Cookies and cream shake? Peppermint Aero shake? Yeah you get the picture, this place is deliciously unreal.
- 310Grill & ShakesKingslandThe hard thing about heading to this spot is choosing from their comprehensive menu of shake flavours. Here, it’s just like Jay-Z says in his song ‘69 problems’ - “I got 69 problems but a milkshake flavour aint one.” Really, sorting through 69 ways to flavour your milk is an experience filled with excitement and anxiety, with menu envy making it’s presence felt through every step of the process! Take note: Do go with a group of friends so you can maximise trying multiple flavours, it’s worth it, this team are mikshake making superstars.
- 42Ariki StoreGrey LynnTucked away off the beaten track, halfway between Ponsonby and Grey Lynn, is the cutest spot to grab a shake on this list. Handmade syrups sit patiently in vintage Agee jars labeled with masking tape, and a milkshake mixer that looks like it was present when man discovered fire is still ready to blend you one of the most delicious shakes you’ve ever tried. Yum.
- 540Ollies Burgers & Ice CreamRoyal OakI need not say much about Ollie’s. It opened on Valentines Day in 1973 and the same local legend is still running the show. If you think you’ve tried a top notch milkshake, wait ‘til you’ve had one from the people that’ve been doing it for more than 40 years! Their chips are also classic as Kiwi fare - they even come in the old skool carton. Great job, Ollies!
Johnny P.'s
Best Pizza
- 118Dante's Pizzeria NapoletanaPonsonbyThere’s alot to take into account when choosing the best pizzeria in the city - but it has to be said, Dante’s have reached a standard in New Zealand nobody yet has. They’re the first pizzeria in the country (joining 472 others wordwide) to receive membership into the prestigious culinary institute ‘Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana’ - let’s just say the certification process for a pizzeria to join the club is…’rigorous’…you can’t just buy a membership online! Beautifully fresh, handmade thin bases are the perfect amount of crispiness in the all the right places, and soft but never doughy in those other places (you’re a pizza fan - so you know what I mean!) And the bases are topped with just the right amount (traditionally speaking) of toppings. They’re THE ONE in the city at the moment, and good luck to them at the World Finals in 2015.
- 221Epolito's PizzeriaOnehungaI simply LOVE Epolito’s - but, I’ll let another Localist lover and true Epolitos fan, ‘Marni P.’, do the talking this time: “If you have not tried Epolito’s pizzas than you have not lived! If you are a true pizza lover then this is were you want to be. If you want a pizza that is as big as your table then I suggest trying the large size. Epolitos is an authentic New York-Italian styled pizzeria - the bases are made fresh everyday by the pizza chef who is originally from New York and has the accent to go with it. If you are someone who loves classic Italian pizzas then try the margherita, if not there are a lot more to choose from on the menu. If you are a ‘more modern’ or ‘something different’ kind of person I suggest trying the artichoke heart, anchovy and lemon pizza - it will blow your mind and give you a whole new look at how pizza should taste and look.” ...AND TAKE NOTE: As of today (18th November, 2014), Epolito’s have a new location on Richmond Road in Grey Lynn, but are in the process of renovating - keep an eye on their Facebook page for an opening date!
- 327Al Volo PizzeriaMount EdenIt is TOUGH to put Al Volo’s in at third considering how equally fond I am of their slices. Everything about this place screams authentic Italian - the flag hanging under the menu, their accents, the pure (and strictly) Italian only ingredients used, the wood fired oven, the Peroni and San Pelligrina-stocked fridge…it’s absolutely one of those “oh my gosh, you haven’t been?!?!” types of places. All pizza lovers must try a slice or three of these Neopolitan treats because their creators know what they are doing.
- 420Toto' PizzaAuckland CentralYou simply cannot ignore popular opinion. But above that, you cannot ignore the reasons why that (Toto’ Pizza) is popular in the first place - and for Toto’, it’s quailty, flavourful pizza. Sure, they’ve gone and done something ‘cool’ and a little different by selling their pizza ‘by the metre’, but that wouldn’t count for anything if the pizza wasn’t absolutely delicious. The pick of the bunch would have to go to the Boscaiola (spinach, mushrooms, pinenuts, mozzerella, parmesan and truffle oil) - but that’s just me…and 90% of my fellow Toto’ fans - because a slice is truly moreish.
- 578Prego RestaurantPonsonbyThe pizza chef at Prego has been there since the restaurant’s first day in 1986…NINETEEN EIGHTY SIX! He’s one of the sole reasons why Prego is an absolute institution, keeping a never-ending flow of diners coming back for his scrumptious slices. In the hospitality industry it’s consistency that creates longevity for an establishment - and Prego have proved worthy of both of these feats. On the pizza front it’s choices like the classic margherita, pollo arrosto, or marinara that have been on the menu for literally decades, never experiencing a slump in popularity. All I can say is get there, try them, and see why for yourself.
Johnny P.'s
Best Vector Arena Restaurants
- 164TSG - Tyler Street GarageAuckland CentralOut of all the spots to head to on a Vector show day, the Tyler St team come to the party the most! The capacity is huge and their super-sized kitchen means punters won’t be waiting long for their pre-show bite. They have a tasty new menu, all pizzas are $20 from 4pm, they take bookings for both downstairs and their sun drenched rooftop - and that’s not even the coolest part - the bar staff design a punch (the alcoholic kind) inspired completely by the artist playing at Vector for maximum pre-show good times (served in a 500ml carafe, available from 4pm, also).
- 2110Mexico Auckland CentralAuckland CentralYou’re probably already in the know or have already had a good time at Mexico. Arguably the most popular kid on the Britomart block, this place churns out fresh and fun, traditional Mexican with an impressive beverage list to match, which also stays loyal to the theme. The menu items are ideal for sharing, adding a super fun side to your pre-show bite - don’t forget to ask about their specials, too! And if there’s 10 or more of you, you can book through their website, otherwise it’s first come, first served!
- 330OrleansAuckland CentralOrleans has become quite the popular choice amongst Britomart regulars since it got its’ foot in the door mid last year. Again their menu is ideal for a quick pre-show bite, with the $10 Po Boy or ‘Small Sumthins’ options, or settle in early for a nice long session of top notch nosh from their ‘Big Sumthins’ menu (and yes, as their name suggests, the menu is inspired by the southern states of America!) Even better, you might even have a live band playing for you while you chow down, as a bit of a teaser before the main event at Vector - there’s generally music from 6:30pm - 8:30pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 8:30pm - 11:30pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The band is REALLY good!
- 47Tanpopo Ramen (Auckland Central)Auckland CentralThe best ramen in the entire city is literally two minutes walk from Vector Arena. This list tries to cover some cheap and cheerful options too and Tanpopo well and truly ticks that box - because hey, the ticket to the show you’re seeing probably cost you an arm and a leg anyway, am I right? This spot is great if you’re looking to escape the sometimes hectic numbers drawn to Britomart before Vector Arena shows, as it’s just at the corner of Anzac Ave and Beach Road (it’s the closest restaurant to Vector in this list!) It’s BYO wine and there’s a bottle store pretty much next door. A+ !!!
- 533Brew On QuayAuckland CentralTicking off the ‘pub grub’ box on this list is Brew On Quay. One of the best things about this spot is the sheer capacity of it - there’s awesome long tables outside (perfect for those sunny evenings), plenty of tables inside, and a rooftop bar also. They’ve got a dedicated ‘Vector Menu’ to whip out on show days, 102 beers from around the world and NZ, and a rotating beverage list also.
Johnny P.'s
Long Lunch Ideas
- 12The Beach HouseKawau IslandIf you’re looking for an unforgettable lunch experience that you have to ‘put in a little work’ to get to, then The Beach House on Kawau Island is the spot. You will be flabbergasted once you arrive at the location…so secluded..so tranquil…with ocean views from every window making it well worth the boat ride from either Sandspit or Auckland. As for the restaurant, they say their “chefs are enthusiastic about quality free range food, presented in a style which is simple and real”…basically, they’re all about good food and good wine. Note: Definitely book ahead - these guys can get busy with weddings etc over summer (you’ll see why once you get there!)
- 24Mahurangi River Winery & CafeWarkworthThis is simply a stunning location. Not only that, it’s a little ‘off the beaten track’ so it’s generally not over-flowing with patrons, leaving you to soak up the serenity with your buddies. As for the long lunch thing, it’s open ‘til 4pm on the weekends which is plenty enough time for a nice session, but they never make you feel like you should leave because they’re lovely people. The chef is amazing, a lot of the produce is grown on site…and you should order their 2013 Albarino #idyllic. Note: When making a booking, ask if the ‘small deck out the front’ is available…trust me.
- 38John Hill EstateHunuaThe perfect lunch destination with a boutique, family friendly atmosphere that’s a nice and easy mini road trip (40 minutes) from Auckland Central. A contemporary a la carte menu with something for all (kids platters too) and plenty of wine styles to back up each of the chef’s creations. It feels like you’re a world away from the city amongst their vines, which is exactly what you want with a weekend lunch outing. And if you’re up for a little activity while you’re there, give the claybird shooting, archery or pentanque a go. Note: The vineyard platter with anyone of their wines is highly recommended!
- 411Te Whau Vineyard & RestaurantWaiheke IslandI feel like not much more needs to be said, as the photo of Te Whau’s view is doing a whole lot of talking (click to view). I will say though that they have consistently won awards for their food and wine through their years on the island - and that they have OYSTERS FROM WAIHEKE to go with your champagne. Note: The restaurant is open for lunch and wine tastings on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with dinner on Saturday nights also. From November 1st they’ll be open for lunch and wine tasting six days a week (closed Tuesdays) from 11am-5pm. You must book!
- 526Leigh Sawmill CafeLeighA comfortable, welcoming place famous for its good vibes, good times and even better beers, Leigh Sawmill is simply awesome, no matter which season you visit. Their wine and food list supports local producers where possible and their signature pizzas have been the talk of the town for an impressive amount of time. Note: If you’ve had one too many of their brewed-on-site beers then there’s accommodation availble too - book ahead!
Johnny P.'s
Best Craft Beer Bars
- 126Brothers BeerAuckland CentralIt’s fair to say Brothers Beer are smashing it at the moment with their craft beer offerings and that's why I love this place. Come here and you can try a wide range of locally brewed beer and so much more. Brothers has 18 beers on tap and eight of those change weekly with the Brothers Beer varieties being brewed in front of you. When I visited they also had 310 bottled varieties. At the moment I’m told the Bach Brewing ‘Kingtide Pacific IPA’ is a must taste, along with anything by Panhead or Liberty breweries. The taps change so often because usually only one keg of each craft beer is ordered - but they’ve come up with a genius solution so you can monitor every drop of your favourite brew - an up-to-the-minute keg volume reader you can view on their website.
- 2716 TunAuckland CentralThe craft brew revolution is alive and well with another home in downtown Auckland. 16 Tun is a slick new sanctuary for beer lovers, cleverly crafted by brew aficionados Andrew Ranum and Matthew Kelly. Set smack-bang in the middle of the most picturesque view of the City of Sails - Wynyard Quarter - it’s the perfect spot for Aucklanders to pay homage to our region’s talented independent brewers. And with more than 30 of them throughout New Zealand, there aren’t nearly enough bars to cater specifically to their frothy and fabulous creations - enter: 16 Tun. As a freehouse, 16 Tun isn’t associated with any brewery so it’s the ultimate panacea for those with a refined craft brew palette. Seven ciders and 52 beers, eight of those on tap available for between three and six-months, with two more bi-weekly rotating taps. So, rest assured, with every visit there’ll something new! And it’s not just a boys’ zone either, ladies - this suave, beer imbibing establishment puts everybody’s tastebuds at the forefront of its hospitality experience. Plus, I love the fact that the kitchen smashes out incredible Kiwi fare showcasing real New Zealand flavours. There’s Ruakaka Paua Fritters and Alpine Origin merino lamb, as well as all-important Kumara Fries and my favourite - the fish sliders. If you are really hungry you can opt for a full tun meal over a half tun. Clever, clever, clever!
- 348Galbraith's AlehouseGraftonSince 1995, Galbraiths has been one of the most respected breweries in the country. ‘Beer purist’ and pub owner, Keith Galbraith, is well renowned for his fine cask-conditioned ‘real ales’ and European inspired lagers, which are all brewed on site and have educated and satisfied many Kiwi patrons. There’s always around 14 of Galbraiths own on tap/hand pump, plus five rotating guest beers of which at least one changes weekly, as well as the recent addition of one or two gravity fed kegs on the bar. Of course, there’s around 60 additional varieties available by the bottle also. For the last month there’s been a bit of hype around their new Czech Style Pilsner and New American Pale Ale which are well worth a swig. Every Sunday from now and through summer, Galbraiths beer garden and BBQ area will host live jazz which is more than ideal for getting into one of their tasting racks, or a long Sunday lunch with ya pals. Cheers!
- 417Vulture's LaneAuckland CentralVulture’s Lane is another brilliant freehouse showcasing an impressive range of Kiwi and international craft beer. The bar has moved away from its infamous Irish pub atmosphere (formerly known as O’Carroll’s) to stock around 100 beers, with around 20 of those on tap. For true fans of the Vulture’s beverage list, every visit is as exciting as the last with a new beer taking over a guest tap every day. Three things are consistent there however - the three managers complete passion for craft beer; the Leigh Sawmill Pilsner always on tap; and the most unbelievably cheap daily meal deals I’ve ever seen (e.g. quality hot dogs on Mondays for $1 and free hot wings on Fridays, to name a few!) Again, keep an eye on their World Wide Web pages for events, such as their IPA night this Friday (October 17th).
- 568Hallertau have been making waves out west in the brewery scene for some time now. Whether you’re there as a loyal fan of one (or all) of their four all-year-round- beers, one-off special brews, or bi-monthly seasonal releases, the establishment always offers sud-lovers pure satisfaction. Recently it’s been the last seasonal release, the ‘Ordained Red IPA’, that’s been bringing in the punters, as well as their one-off Belgian Witbier with grapefruit made for Masu Japanese Restaurant. Stay in the loop with these guys for their spring release next month in the form of a crisp New Zealand Pilsner. The team run brewery tours every Saturday at 11am and 3:30pm, or if you’ve got the kids and you’re hungry, the staff are all well clued-up and can assist as you taste your way through the selection in their family friendly restaurant. Take note: Hallertau’s spring menu is being released today (15/10/14)!
Johnny P.'s
Drinks by the water
- 12Cafe SandspitSandspitSo you want a refreshing beverage by the water? It doesn’t get any better than Cafe Sandspit. Comfort food, a classic Kiwi wine and beer list, pure peace and quiet - a no frills cafe, just the simple things done well. Let's be honest, everyone feels at peace next to the ocean, so why spoil it with too much ‘city’ atmosphere?! The combination of the location and scenery easily earns this cafe its top ranking, just head to the gallery on their website for jaw-dropping proof. Note: Cafe Sandspit is pretty tiny so book ahead. And don’t ask for an espresso martini, it’s not that kind of place!
- 238The RiverheadRiverheadIt’s never a long time between drinks for me when it comes to my love affair with this gem of a tavern. The last time I was here was for a family birthday and we drove by car. But because it is situated right on the water’s edge and in order to get the full experience of a great Kiwi day out, you need to jump on a boat and head up the inlet to the moorings outside The Riverhead. As New Zealand’s oldest riverside tavern, it’s steeped in history, but when it comes to the menu and craft brews, this place is as modern as it gets. A gastro-pub on steroids, each dish bursts with fresh, seasonal flavours and local produce and meat cuts are at the forefront. Plus, as a regular, I love the fact that new dishes are added often. Their dessert is also an absolute must and I recommend that everyone at the table orders something different so you can enjoy a real taste test. I’m not sure anywhere else in Auckland does such a lip-smackingly-good, sweet finish to end what always is the perfect pub meal. Plus the cold tap beer slides down so nicely on a hot summer’s day that it’s worth taking a sober skipper so you can have a rollicking good country day out. If you’re an Aucklander and haven’t experienced The Riverhead yet then you haven’t lived. It really is that good.
- 346Deep Creek Brewing CompanyBrowns BayQuality beer and food in a quaint part of Auckland is why Deep Creek earns its spot on the list. The team pride themselves on delivering ‘small batch, hand crafted, flavour fueled’ beer to their patrons, which has made them quite the popular kid on the block - that and their seaside (Browns Bay) outdoor courtyard, of course. Check any one of their World Wide Web pages for updates on events, feasts and tastings, it’s well worth a look if you’re not a fan already.
- 426Jack TarAuckland CentralThe Jack Tar’s outside seating on North Wharf would have to be some of the most desirable on a sunny day in the city. The place is busy enough to give it a ‘place to be’ vibe, but not so hectic that it makes your seaside/wharf beverage sipping session unenjoyable. All the classics are on tap with a few very nice Australian beers to mix things up. The food here is great too - I would call it…’comfort food with flair’…very delicious.
- 59Harbourside Ocean Bar GrillAuckland CentralThe Harbourside in the ferry building downtown has an amazing deck looking out over the harbour. If you’re not a fan of the hustle and bustle of central city life then this one might not be for you, but once you get on that deck with a beverage in your hand I can guarantee everything will be A-O.K.! It’s surprisingly relaxing watching Auckland’s commuters doing their thing as you do exactly the opposite. If you’re a seafood lover, then prepare your tastebuds for an experience too.