Food Guide NZ logo Food Guide NZ

Best Cheap Lunch Spots in Auckland CBD (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.

16 places

Photo of Depot $$$

Depot

4.7(4,968)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

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

artisan charcuterie charcoal grilled fresh seafood

4,968 reviews

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

Dr Rudi's Rooftop Brewing Co.

4.2(4,269)

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.

award winning beers pizza by the foot seafood specials

4,269 reviews

Photo of Federal Delicatessen $$

Federal Delicatessen

4.5(3,921)

restaurant · Auckland City

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

jewish comfort food jewish delicatessen latkes

3,921 reviews

Photo of Odettes Eatery $$

Odettes Eatery

4.6(2,611)

mediterranean restaurant · Auckland CBD

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

african spices levantine local produce

2,611 reviews

Photo of Ortolana $$

Ortolana

4.6(2,509)

italian restaurant · Auckland CBD

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

artisan breads fresh seafood handmade pasta

2,509 reviews

Photo of Mezze Bar $$

Mezze Bar

4.4(2,220)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

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

auckland icon casual dining craft beers

2,220 reviews

Photo of Hello Beasty $$ - $$$ Michelin Guide

Hello Beasty

4.8(1,957)

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

1,957 reviews

Photo of Le Garde-Manger $$

Le Garde-Manger

4.6(1,938)

french restaurant · Auckland CBD

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

authentic french cuisine authentic french fare french crêpes

1,938 reviews

Photo of Scarecrow Mediterranean Cafe $$

Scarecrow Mediterranean Cafe

4.5(1,612)

cafe · Auckland 1010

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

artisan grocer artisan snacks cafe

1,612 reviews

Photo of Chargrill ️ Grill Restaurant and Bar in Auckland $$

Chargrill ️ Grill Restaurant and Bar in Auckland

4.6(1,120)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

A great Dine in and Takeaway Restaurant enhanced by all freshly cooked meal during service hours.

dine in gourmet burgers kebabs

1,017 reviews

Photo of alma Michelin Guide

alma

4.8(593)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

alma feeds the soul and lifts the spirit with inspiration from Andalusia and the bold simplicity of home. The food style travels through seasons and localities while offering a sensory mix of comfort and delight.

andalusian flavours gin local produce

593 reviews

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 dining chinese dumplings fried rice

536 reviews

Photo of Ghost Street (Restaurant) $$ - $$$

Ghost Street (Restaurant)

4.5(490)

chinese restaurant · Tuawhiti Lane

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

beijing street food bold flavors chinese

490 reviews

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

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 flavourful mains grilled favourites

256 reviews

Photo of Good Dog Bad Dog $

Good Dog Bad Dog

4.2(227)

meal takeaway · Northcote Point

Support your local dog dealer.

fried chicken hot dogs street food

227 reviews