Food Guide NZ logo Food Guide NZ

Best Cheap Lunch Spots Auckland CBD in Auckland (2026)

Auckland CBD is a bustling hub of activity, and finding a great lunch that won’t dent your wallet is easier than you think. From hidden gems to popular eateries, these cheap lunch spots offer a variety of tasty options perfect for a midday break in 2026.

20 places

Photo of Little Tiger Dumpling

Little Tiger Dumpling

5.0(536)

chinese restaurant · Auckland CBD

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly service and the quality of the dumplings, describing them as the best they've ever had.

auckland cbd chinese dumplings fried rice

536 reviews

Photo of alma

alma

4.7(511)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

alma feeds the soul and lifts the spirit with inspiration from Andalusia and the bold simplicity of home, offering a sensory mix of comfort and delight.

andalusian inspired gin local produce

511 reviews

Photo of Chill and Grill

Chill and Grill

4.7(256)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

Located in the heart of the city at 111 Victoria Street West, Auckland Central, Chill and Grill is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy great food in a welcoming atmosphere.

comforting sides flavorful mains grilled favorites

256 reviews

Photo of Fat Puku's Smashed Burgers Queen Street $$

Fat Puku's Smashed Burgers Queen Street

4.7(1,190)

hamburger restaurant · Auckland CBD

Fat Puku's Smashed Burgers offers classic American smash burgers made with top-quality Matangi Angus beef, known for its crispy edges and tender centers.

american diner angus beef casual dining

1,000 reviews

Photo of Hello Beasty

Hello Beasty

4.7(1,556)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

Buzzy destination offering creative East Asian-New Zealand fusion fare in a colourful setting.

chinese cuisine contemporary new zealand fusion japanese cuisine

1,556 reviews

Photo of Milenta

Milenta

4.7(402)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

Reviewers consistently praise the exceptional service and the smoky, chargrilled flavors of the dishes, making for a memorable dining experience.

gourmet snacks grilled meats nz cuisine

402 reviews

Photo of Amano $$$ Staff Pick

Amano

4.6(4,844)

restaurant · Tyler Street

Hip, bohemian, wood-&-brick restaurant & bakery serving locally sourced Italian cuisine.

italian-inspired local new zealand food rustic fare

4,844 reviews

Photo of Chargrill ️ Grill Restaurant and Bar in Auckland $$

Chargrill ️ Grill Restaurant and Bar in Auckland

4.6(1,120)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

We Are a Full Bar & Restaurant Located in the heart of Auckland, Chargrill Fort Street offers and specialized in modern traditional meals. Dine-in and takeaway from our local restaurant where breakfast, lunch and dinner are available 7 days a week.

all day breakfast burgers modern traditional meals

1,017 reviews

Photo of Depot $$$

Depot

4.6(2,170)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

Energetic, industrial-chic spot offering creative dishes, an oyster bar & a sophisticated wine list.

artisan charcuterie charcoal grilled fresh seafood

2,170 reviews

Photo of Le Garde-Manger $$

Le Garde-Manger

4.6(1,355)

french restaurant · Auckland CBD

Relaxed & homey French restaurant offering a range of crêpes, traditional mains & wine.

authentic french cuisine french crêpes french wine

1,355 reviews

Photo of Federal Delicatessen $$

Federal Delicatessen

4.5(2,350)

restaurant · Auckland City

Bagels, matzo ball soup & other New York deli classics in a casual eatery that has booths & a bar.

bagels cheesecake latkes

2,350 reviews

Photo of Ghost Street (Restaurant)

Ghost Street (Restaurant)

4.5(433)

chinese restaurant · Tuawhiti Lane

A reimagining of the heady hole-in-the-wall eateries along Beijing's famous food street, Ghost Street offers a dark and moody atmosphere with lip-smacking food.

beijing street food chinese food sublime chinese cuisine

433 reviews

Photo of Harbour Eats

Harbour Eats

4.5(361)

food court · Auckland CBD

Reviewers consistently praise the variety of cuisines available and the vibrant atmosphere, making it a great spot for families and food lovers alike.

361 reviews

Photo of Mezze Bar $$

Mezze Bar

4.5(1,876)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

Relaxed tapas bar serving Mediterranean small plates & drinks in a warm, convivial atmosphere.

casual dining espresso coffee hand selected wines

1,876 reviews

Photo of Odettes Eatery $$

Odettes Eatery

4.5(1,969)

mediterranean restaurant · Auckland CBD

Mediterranean- & North African-inspired dining & drinks with a sophisticated vibe.

african spices bold flavors levantine

1,969 reviews

Photo of Ortolana $$

Ortolana

4.5(1,441)

italian restaurant · Auckland CBD

Small, relaxed bistro serving European fare in a contemporary space with an open kitchen & a patio.

artisan bread fresh seafood handmade pasta

1,441 reviews

Photo of Scarecrow Mediterranean Cafe $$

Scarecrow Mediterranean Cafe

4.5(1,270)

cafe · Auckland 1010

Stylish cafe, urban farmers market & florist focusing on locally sourced, organic fare.

artisan platters mediterranean inspired organic coffee

1,270 reviews

Photo of Uncle Man's K'road $ Staff Pick

Uncle Man's K'road

4.4(1,415)

malaysian restaurant · Auckland CBD

Reviewers consistently praise the authentic Malaysian cuisine and friendly service, highlighting dishes like Nasi Goreng and Roti bread.

1,415 reviews

Photo of Dr Rudi's Rooftop Brewing Co. $$

Dr Rudi's Rooftop Brewing Co.

4.3(3,758)

bar · Auckland CBD

Welcome to Dr Rudi’s Bar, located on the 2nd level of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour. Our rooftop spot offers one of the most spectacular views in the world for brewing, drinking, eating and socializing.

cocktails craft beer pizza

3,758 reviews

Photo of Good Dog Bad Dog

Good Dog Bad Dog

4.1(214)

meal takeaway · Northcote Point

Reviewers consistently praise the Chopped Cheese and Philly Cheese Steak for their flavor and quality, though some dishes have had issues with freshness.

214 reviews