Best Whitebait Fritters in Auckland

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Verdict

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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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

Queue

Go

19:30; perfect for a special occasion.

Price

$$$

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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.

Price

$$$

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A destination restaurant where every ingredient, including the mussels, is treated with world-class care. Their preparation is classic and flawless. — Northcote Point

Queue

Go

19:30; essential to book this destination spot.

Price

$$$

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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

Queue

Go

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

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.

Price

$$$

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A great spot on the North Shore for classic seafood. Their whitebait fritters are traditional and well-regarded by local residents. — Northcote Point

Queue

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19:00; perfect for a dinner with a view.

Price

$$$

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While primarily a Chinese-fusion restaurant, they often feature seasonal NZ ingredients with a modern, spicy twist during whitebait season. — Ponsonby

Queue

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12:30; a popular spot for a lively lunch.

Price

$$$

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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 historic pub where a "pot of mussels and a pint" is a local weekend tradition. The atmosphere is casual and the portions are generous. — Ponsonby

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15:00 on a sunny weekend afternoon.

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$$

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A nostalgic choice serving the city since the 1960s. Their garlic mussels are a classic preparation that hasn't changed in decades, reliable and comforting. — City Bowl

Queue

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19:00; a great spot for a traditional dinner.

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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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A Ponsonby institution where the mussels are a staple of the social dining experience. They are served in a rich tomato and garlic broth that is a local favorite. — Ponsonby

Queue

Go

12:30; great for a lively family lunch.

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$$$

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Al Brown’s iconic eatery. Their Pāua ravioli is a permanent fixture on the menu, filled with a rich Pāua mousse and served in a light lemon butter sauce. — SkyCity

Queue

Go

12:30; no bookings, so expect a lively wait.

Price

$$$

Dietary