Soul Bar & Bistro

Few Auckland restaurants capture the energy of the Viaduct quite like Soul Bar & Bistro. A long-time favourite for locals and visitors alike, it pairs waterfront views with polished service, a buzzing atmosphere and a menu that continues to evolve while remaining true to its crowd-pleasing roots. The kitchen, led by chef Gavin Doyle, delivers bold, contemporary flavours with plenty of personality. Start with the Dusty Apron ciabatta and truffle ricotta butter before moving on to the prawn tom kha risotto with koshihikari rice, tomato and makrut lime oil, a vibrant dish that balances richness with freshness. Dessert is equally satisfying with the warm chocolate pudding served alongside Frangelico and hazelnut ice cream offering the perfect sweet and gooey indulgent finish. An extensive wine list and one of the city's strongest cocktail programmes make Soul Bar & Bistro just as much a destination for drinks as it is for dinner. Stylish and fun, it remains one of Auckland's most reliable places to celebrate, unwind or simply soak up the waterfront atmosphere.