
You don’t need to make the trip downtown when you’ve got plenty of choice options just around the corner. We’ve made a list of some of the top bars from Royal Oak to Sylvia Park and the outskirts of Auckland City.
Shop ‘til you Drop Spots at Sylvia Park
Shopping is all well and good, until you need a break. Most malls have fast-food courtyards, but not Sylvia Park which is home to some of the best bars and restaurants you can find.
Pop into Birdie's for a deli to die for, including their famous fried chicken, light bites, and cheap eats—they even have a kids menu that will keep them more than happy. Start your morning of shopping with a hearty breakfast, or round off the lunchtime rush and evening stint with a tasty cocktail from Birdie's bar.
Garrison Public House is a gastrobar that’s also on-site at Sylvia Park, with a classic kiwi pub food menu that will leave you grinning. Their big screen is perfect for watching sport live, but when the sun comes out you’ll want to hit their beer garden which can also be booked for a private function, alongside a private event space tucked away upstairs.
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Waterfront Views at Five Knots
Looking for a private venue hire with waterfront views? Five Knots is perched on a pier right in front of panoramic ocean views, near the Tamaki Yacht Club. The entire establishment was designed for your special days and evenings, including milestone birthdays, weddings, and Christmas parties. Their website has plenty of imagery that shows the function room and ocean view—you’ll need to make a booking if you want to visit.
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Classic Beers and Hearty Atmosphere at the The Flying Moa
The Flying Moa is another locals favourite on the east side of Auckland. The cherished gastropub is known for their light bites and pub food, including burgers that are hard to beat. If you’re looking for another reason to enjoy some comfort food, try pairing it with their quiz nights or live music nights.
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Loved by Locals at The Zookeeper’s Son
Tucked away on the edge of Royal Oak lies a local’s favourite bar, The Zookeeper’s Son. They’re known for their lush greenery which creeps up the walls, matched to contemporary decor for an upmarket feel—especially at the Rooftop Garden Bar, which also doubles as a private function room. That’s why they’re also a favourite for venue hire, covering receptions, birthdays, and everything in-between. Rock up for an evening of live sport on the big screen, or kick back to some live music while you sip on a cold one.
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Fancy something further afield? Well, we've got you covered right across Auckland.