Best Bluff Oysters in Auckland

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If you want to see Pāua in its raw form or buy it to cook yourself, this is the place. Several stalls also serve Pāua fritters for a casual street-food experience. — Wynyard Quarter

Queue

Go

11:00; explore the stalls before the lunch crowd arrives.

Price

$$

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A luxury vineyard restaurant where Pāua is often served as part of a multi-course tasting menu. The presentation is as stunning as the vineyard views. — Waiheke Island

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Go

13:00; book well in advance for a weekend lunch.

Price

$$$

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Another Josh Emett masterpiece where every ingredient is treated with extreme precision. Their Pāua is often paired with interesting local ferments to create a unique dish. — City Bowl

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19:30; perfect for a special occasion.

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$$$

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A classic choice for those who want their oysters with a side of historic Auckland charm. The views over the ferry terminal are unmatched. — City Bowl

Queue

Go

13:00; sit on the balcony for the best experience.

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$$$

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Soul is an Auckland institution. They often feature Pāua as a seasonal special, pan-seared with local seaweeds or as part of a luxurious seafood platter. — Viaduct Harbour

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Go

13:30; perfect for people-watching on the terrace.

Price

$$$

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Chef Ben Bayly’s love letter to NZ produce. They often serve Pāua in sophisticated ways, treating it as a world-class ingredient with modern techniques. — Commercial Bay

Queue

Go

19:30; a high-end experience in the heart of the city.

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$$$

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A trendy, elevated venue with a fantastic raw bar. They focus on modern, social dining, and their oysters are served as part of larger share plates. — Viaduct Harbour

Queue

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17:00; watch the sunset over the harbor.

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$$$

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The absolute spiritual home of the oyster in Auckland. Al Brown’s raw bar is legendary for its speed and skill in shucking to order. — City Bowl

Queue

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12:00; arrive early as they do not take bookings.

Price

$$$

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While famous for oysters, their Pāua preparations are a popular way to sample the delicacy. They often feature it in rich, creamy sauces that complement the black foot. — Viaduct Harbour

Queue

Go

17:00; perfect for an early evening meal by the water.

Price

$$$

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One of the most beautiful settings in Auckland. Their Pāua dishes are elegantly presented and consistently highly rated by local and international guests. — Waiheke Island

Queue

Go

18:00; watch the sunset over the city from the island.

Price

$$$

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A high-end brasserie where Pāua is often featured as a luxury seasonal special. It is treated with classic techniques that respect its unique flavor profile. — City Bowl

Queue

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20:00; a sophisticated city spot for late dining.

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$$$

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A sophisticated spot where Pāua is often featured in contemporary, creative ways. It offers a more relaxed but still very high-end way to sample the delicacy. — Commercial Bay

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15:00; a great spot for a late afternoon snack.

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$$$

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A gritty, honest, and high-volume seafood restaurant right on the marina. This is where locals go for large portions and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. — Westhaven Marina

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18:30; a great spot for a relaxed dinner after a day out.

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$$

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A dedicated oyster bar that is perfect for a quick, high-quality fix. It is smaller and more intimate than the larger waterfront restaurants. — Ferry Building

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15:00; a great stop before catching a ferry.

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$$

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A chic island spot where the mussels are as fresh as they get. They are served with great views and pair perfectly with local Waiheke white wine. — Waiheke Island

Queue

Go

13:00; book a table on the veranda for the best experience.

Price

$$$

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