La Zeppa

In the heart of Auckland City Centre, La Zeppa channels Mediterranean ease from first light to last orders. A broad sundeck frames alfresco moments, the kind that pair as happily with casual beers as with celebratory champagne. Inside, the tempo shifts with the day: long, languid lunches roll into lively evenings, equally at home hosting an intimate date or a spirited get-together.

The kitchen leans into sun-bathed flavours and clean, confident technique. Think trevally crudo brushed with green gazpacho and shaved cucumber, or chopped wagyu beef tartare crowned with matchstick potato. Pasta brings comfort with flourish, from pork cheek bolognese over saffron linguine finished with fried sage and parmigiano reggiano to a silken cacio e pepe folded through potato gnocchi and soft yolk. For larger cravings, bavette arrives with bone marrow jus, seasonal greens and sherry onions, while line caught market fish swims in ajo blanco with marinated tomatoes and latkas. Vegetables hold their own, from roasted cauliflower with a scored grapes vinaigrette to playful potato laces with buttermilk curd and nduja.

Behind the bar, classics and modern mischief mingle: an Espresso Martini or Clover Club for late-night polish, a Negroni or Margarita for old-school rhythm, and spritzes that taste like sunshine. Quick sips keep things sprightly, from a mini Negroni to the cheeky 20th Cen-Teeny. Claim a spot on the sundeck, gather your favourites, and let the afternoon drift into evening; the only decision left is what to toast to.