The Insiders Guide to Ponsonby

We've put together a list of our must visit places within Ponsonby as The Shelter's insider's guide. They are the hip, the quirky and the quaint. These are often the places that you find the stylish locals hanging out, the ones that might not make the tourist maps. They are where we go for after-work drinks, a bite to eat and to refresh after a long day. We might just see you there.

DRINK

A. ANNABEL'S WINE BAR // A slick new local wine bar. Annabel's is the place to go on the way to where you are going!... View Directions.

B. CONCH // Record store turned bar and eatery, our favourite spot for unwinding after a busy day. Nab a booth out the back and hide from the hustle and bustle… View Directions.

C. LOVE BUCKET // Tucked away behind The Food Workshop on K'Road, visit this charismatic watering hole for cocktails on tap and a good vibe. View Directions.

D. FITZROY LOUNGE BAR // Fitzroy is our local haunt. A chill electric lounge bar with chess, darts and monopoly located in the heart of Ponsonby. View Directions.

EAT

A. THE SHELTER CAFE // Healthy eating made easy! Our cafe offers a range of whole foods with takeaway or eat in options to fuel your everyday adventure. Gluten free, vegetarian and paleo options are available.

B. AZABU // The latest newcomer to the ‘restaurant strip’ Chef Yukio Ozeki is carving out a following with the right crowd. The energetic environment is matched with a menu that pays homage to Nikkei cuisine — the fresh Peruvian-Japanese crossover of flavours. View Directions.

C. ORPHAN’S KITCHEN // Don’t be mislead, behind the simple relaxed decor is delicious food from one of our top restaurateurs. The courtyard also doubles as great spot for a quiet wine at the end of a busy day! View Directions.

D. DIZENGOFF // A Ponsonby institution with a Jewish inspired menu, it’s our favourite spot for an early morning breakfast with a good dose of Ponsonby people watching. View Directions.

E. BLUE BREEZE INN // Dumplings and cocktails, need we say more? If you’re in the mood for delectable food in a buzzing yet easy environment this is our top pick. N.B. Sit at the bar for dinner and a show! View Directions.

F. COTTO // Oh my, is Cotto delicious! Situated on the bustling K'Road, this top quality handmade pasta pop-up delivers some of the best Italian dishes in town. View Directions.

FOOD ON THE RUN

A. CHOP CHOP // Ramen on the run. If you're in need of a speedy but deliciously warming meal, head to CHOP CHOP. The little brother of Blue Breeze Inn, this casual local favourite is a must-try. View Directions.

B. PREGO // An Auckland dining institution; you can’t go past Prego pizzas for an indulgent takeaway when cooking has become just too hard. View Directions.

C. BIRD ON WIRE // Roast chicken the way mum makes it paired with a selection of fresh salads, grab a takeaway or eat in! View Directions.

D. PEDRO'S HOUSE OF LAMB // Your perfect mid-week indulgence, Pedro's signature dish of melt-in-your-mouth lamb with scalloped potatoes is now available to takeaway from this conveniently located Ponsonby pit stop. View Directions.

E. BURGER BURGER // You simply can’t fault Burger Burger, delicious fresh burgers and more served in a vibey environment to suit any occasion. N.B. The broccoli is a must try! View Directions.

F. BESTIE // Nestled in the eclectic St Kevin's Arcade, serving eighthirty coffee and simply delicious food, this open and inviting space is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. View Directions.

REFRESH

A. MANDE WHITE YOGA // Feel good from the inside out with one of Auckland’s most established and inspiring instructors. View Directions.

B. SPRING SPA // Based on the concept of a social spa, Spring combines pampering and relaxation in a fun, social environment. View Directions.

C. MECCA COSMETICA // The best in global beauty with all your favourite brands under one roof. View Directions.

D. PILATES BODY STUDIO // Invigorate and strengthen with the team at Pilates Body Studio. View Directions.

CULTURE

A. OBJECT SPACE // A public gallery dedicated to positioning craft, design and architecture within a range of cultural economic and social frameworks. View Directions.

B. ANTHOLOGY LOUNGE // K'Roads premium lounge and wine bar showcasing a variety of gigs, jazz nights and big names in an intimate setting. View Directions.