











Return
Textarea
Return is a restaurant built on intention. From the moment you walk through the door, there is a confidence that flows through every part of the experience, from the warm welcome and polished service to the thoughtful cooking coming from Matt Lambert's kitchen. Nothing feels overworked; instead, every decision is purposeful and every detail carefully considered. Guests can choose to dine à la carte or settle in for the six-course Short Story or 10-course Long Story tasting menus, each showcasing New Zealand's exceptional produce through refined technique and balanced flavours. This is elevated Kiwi cooking at its best, where nostalgic favourites and iconic local ingredients are thoughtfully reimagined. From beautifully refined takes on fish and chips and whitebait to a classic pavlova, every dish retains its familiar heart while being transformed through impeccable technique, texture and flavour into something distinctly contemporary. The front-of-house team, led by Barbara Lambert, delivers service that is knowledgeable, engaging and genuinely welcoming, while sommelier Jim Turner guides diners through a thoughtful drinks programme with confidence and ease. Return offers a refreshing approach to modern dining, delivering an experience that feels sophisticated yet relaxed and one that leaves a lasting impression long after the final course.
Contact Information
Hats score
Hats
2
Score
18
Location
165, Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland, Waitematā, Auckland, 1011, New Zealand














