2,156 reviews
#1 of 2,255 Restaurants in Auckland Central$$$$, European, New Zealand, Vegetarian friendly+64 9-368 4129+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Mon
5:45 pm - 12:00 am
Tue
5:45 pm - 12:00 am
Wed
5:45 pm - 12:00 am
Thu
5:45 pm - 12:00 am
Fri
5:45 pm - 12:00 am
Sat
5:45 pm - 12:00 am
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
Travellers' Choice Best of the Best 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Food and ambience
Local cuisine, European, New Zealand, Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Special Occasion Dining, Romantic, Groups, Business meetings
Is this a Mediterranean restaurant?
Details
About
Fine dining restaurant in the heart of Auckland city, serving a degustation menu of modern New Zealand cuisine
PRICE RANGE
$208.00 – $253.00
CUISINES
European, New Zealand
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Dinner
FEATURES
Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Valet Parking, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, American Express, Mastercard, Visa, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Non-smoking restaurants, Gift Cards Available
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5.0
2,156 reviews
Excellent
1,819
Very good
217
Average
82
Poor
26
Terrible
12
sherlock1954
121 contributions
Dec 2024 • couples
This is a very fancy gourmet destination and the staff are amazing and they try to cater to allergies and accommodate your preferences in the degustation menu. The meal started off really well, very surprising amuse bouche, appetizers and intermediary dishes (I won't spoil it for you, the surprises are all part of the charm).
However the main dish did not hold up, I had king fish that was lacking a little time on the grill and had very little taste or seasoning, quite bland with two slice of beetroot and a nasturtium leaf. The dessert was original but I don't like matcha, so it didn't work for me. The end of the meal was a bit of a downer, thus the four stars instead of five. It may have been the timing, as the restaurant was really very busy with some very big parties, so I am guessing the kitchen was struggling, the room staff were on the other hand very professional and the service was very good, just not the tasting feast I had hoped for!
When I checked out, which you do as you leave, the Maitre D made a mistake and overcharged us by mistake, so their system of not bringing the bill to the table is not foolproof. There are some improvements to be made before this can be considered a Michelin type destination.
Written 12 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ellealarna
Auckland Central1 contribution
Sept 2024 • friends
This place offers more than just a sit down meal. It’s a full on sensory and culinary journey, experienced over a sprawling and action-packed degustation menu. Each of the 8+ dishes highlighted and showcased the unique flavors and features of the simple but exquisite ingredients. The service team are next level; hands on, extremely knowledgeable and attentive. From someone who is often disappointed by set menus, this blew me away and set a new standard for value and quality. Thank you.
Written 12 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
We are blown away at this review, thank you! A sensory and culinary journey is exactly what we hope our guests experience so this means the world to hear it from a customer. We hope to see you again soon at The Grove.
Written 15 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I2977YPjohn
Masterton12 contributions
Oct 2024 • none
Huge coincidence, we had already made a booking when the "Six Hats Trans-Tasman Degustation" special event was announced which was inclusive of our booking date. A collaboration between The Grove and Amaru, Melbourne, each of which are proud earners of 3 Hats.
Impossible to be twice as good as The Grove alone but it certainly resulted in a truly exceptional degustation menu representing outstanding examples of cuisine from both countries/restaurants. Reading the menu immediately caused taste buds to switch to craving mode, e.g. W. Aust Marron, blood lime, marron sambal, Coastal Bao, marron fudge and Quail, Quince, pepita miso, pumpkin.
As each course arrived the art that is plating was demonstrated at a level rarely experienced and the actual eating even enhanced that experience.
That was the food but the event was turned into an experience by a team of Chefs and floor professionals (wait persons, servers etc. wouldn't begin to describe them). These people exude professionalism, knowledge and an exceptional level of friendly attention that is at least as good as the eating experience.
Truly a night to remember and a wonderful example of post-covid success in a difficult environment.
Thanks to both restaurants!
Review collected in partnership with www.restauranthub.co.nz
This business uses tools provided by Tripadvisor (or one of its official Review Collection Partners) to encourage and collect guest reviews, including this one.
Written 17 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thank you for this fantastic review and for being part of such a memorable evening! It sounds like you truly caught the magic of our Six Hats Trans-Tasman Degustation with Amaru. Bringing together the best of both restaurants was a thrill for us—and I'm glad to hear the artistry, both on the plate and in the service, left an impression. The team poured their heart and soul into each detail, so knowing it made the night unforgettable for you means a lot. Here's to many more post-covid successes and unforgettable dining experiences!
Written 30 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tony F
Auckland1400 contributions
Sept 2024 • family
If you want a simple belly filler before a movie or theater this is absolutely the wrong place. To go to The Grove is an amazing evenings entertainment and Culinary experience. From the moment you step in the door through the entire evening you are treated like royalty. The staff are simply amazing both in their service but also product knowledge. It was our wedding anniversary but because of a mix up we had a 12 year old +1. The staff got that sorted and adjusted the menu to suit my wife's dietary needs and the 12 year old. We has the degastation menu with wine match and it was beyond any expectations. We can't recommend the grove enough.
Written 12 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thanks so much for the lovely review! We're really happy to hear your anniversary dinner went so well, even with the little changes on the night. Our team always aims to make every occasion special, so it's great to know we could do that for you, your wife, and your 12-year-old. We appreciate the high praise and can't wait to have you all back at The Grove!
Written 22 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Catherine J
Auckland Central7 contributions
May 2024 • none
Wow wow wow from start to finish! We did the 8 course degustation menu it was quite expensive but well worth it, talk about getting bang for your buck. Service was impeccable I swear we had about 8 different people serving us through the evening. We absolutely wanted for nothing.
So amazed that a chef of such obvious high calibre would have time to come out to help explain some of the courses to us. Cory is obviously very passionate about what he does and it shows.
Thank you Grove for such an enchanted evening 🔥
Review collected in partnership with www.restauranthub.co.nz
This business uses tools provided by Tripadvisor (or one of its official Review Collection Partners) to encourage and collect guest reviews, including this one.
Written 13 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Wow, thank you for such an enthusiastic review! We’re thrilled that you enjoyed our 8-course degustation menu and felt it was worth every penny. Our team strives to provide impeccable service, and it's wonderful to hear that you felt well taken care of throughout the evening.
Chef Cory and the entire team are indeed passionate about creating memorable dining experiences, and your kind words mean a lot to us. We're delighted that your evening was so enchanting.
We look forward to welcoming you back for another extraordinary experience.
Written 7 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pondilicious
Auckland Central1 contribution
Sept 2024 • none
The Grove stand out is its exceptional service. The staff are knowledgeable and attentive without being overbearing, and the pacing of the meal is perfect—giving you time to savor each dish while still maintaining a seamless flow.
With its commitment to seasonal, local ingredients and an atmosphere that feels luxurious yet relaxed, The Grove is the perfect destination for those seeking a fine dining experience that’s both sophisticated and grounded in nature’s bounty. A meal here is not just about eating, but about enjoying an artfully curated dining journey.
Review collected in partnership with www.restauranthub.co.nz
This business uses tools provided by Tripadvisor (or one of its official Review Collection Partners) to encourage and collect guest reviews, including this one.
Written 24 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thanks for the awesome review! We’re so glad you enjoyed the service and pacing of the meal. It’s great to hear that our focus on local ingredients and relaxed atmosphere made your experience special. Can’t wait to have you back for another great dining journey!
Written 26 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mark
19 contributions
Mar 2024 • friends
What an impressive dining experience. The mood music and lighting were at just the right levels.The wait staff and the sommelier were attentive, informed and without gush. The food presentation, moments of creative drama and tantalisation of the taste buds would have to place The Grove (in my opinion) as currently the best restaurant in Auckland.
Written 9 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thank you so much for your kind words, we truely appreciate you taking the time to provide your feedback and share your experience at the Grove. We look forward to welcoming you to The Grove again.
Written 20 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DaisyandCoffee777
Auckland Central1 contribution
Aug 2024 • none
Every dish presented was uniquely fashioned, thanks to their amazing Chef that deserves 10 stars
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
He was not only visible , but presented some of the dishes that needed to be explained or were intricately made.
The waiting staff all worked in tandem with each other to present a unified service that also deserved a ⭐️ star, and the owner was very down to earth and unassumingly approachable . He also deserves a star ⭐️
Review collected in partnership with www.restauranthub.co.nz
This business uses tools provided by Tripadvisor (or one of its official Review Collection Partners) to encourage and collect guest reviews, including this one.
Written 28 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thank you for the kind words, we loved hosting you and are so glad to hear you enjoyed yourself. Looking forward to having you back.
Written 5 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gl0bej0gger
Atlanta36 contributions
Dec 2023 • couples
Well, the service is over the top and the food is creative. The small bites/appetizers were the best. Unfortunately, we had two disappointments at The Grove. First, the Concierge from our hotel had booked our reservation before we arrived in NZ and he promised to inform the restaurant that it was my husband's "milestone" birthday. NOTHING was done to surprise my husband as I had planned. Nothing was ever said about his birthday - no candle, nothing.
Second, I absolutely cannot eat rare beef and so I did not touch one of the six courses. Someone noticed and said could they bring me something else--again nothing was ever suggested as a replacement....
Written 20 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thank you for your honest feedback, we appreciate you bringing it to our attention that there was a breakdown in communication with the hotel. We love celebrating special occasions with our guests and devastated that we missed doing this for your husband’s milestone birthday. We also take dietary requests seriously and arrange the degustation menu around these requests when communicated at the time of booking - so we are also devastated that this was missed. We are however grateful to hear you enjoyed the snacks and found the food creative. Thank you again for your honest feedback.
Written 11 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
WeAdoreTravl
Austin213 contributions
Nov 2023 • couples
We chose the 8 course experience and thoroughly enjoyed it.
We snagged a last minute reservation based on online reviews and an in person confirmation from a couple that I met on a tour. I will warn you, the experience isn’t cheap, but if you’re a foodie and you enjoy food experiences go ahead and take the plunge.
The total experience takes about 3 hours as you are being presented with individual courses and a palate cleanse. We didn’t opt for the wine pairing but I’m told it’s a great choice.
I thoroughly enjoy food but rarely venture outside of my comfort zone when it comes to consuming certain animals but I did and was quite surprised. I’d definitely say add this experience on your list if visiting New Zealand.
Written 3 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
avid752019
Houston5 contributions
Nov 2024 • couples
My husband and I chose Auckland for our milestone anniversary celebration trip coupled with a dinner degustation meal at The Grove. We opted for the 8 course (no drink pairing) and were absolutely wowed. Coming from the US, we didn’t know what it meant to start a meal with “snacks” - this included venison roasted on natural charcoal with pine dusting, pacific coast oysters, large clam shells with a mouthwatering soup, and another whose name escapes me shaped like star anise. This was just how the meal began, the it was a journey through the flavors, textures, smell, and tastes of New Zealand, y favorite being the horse mussel. Wee ended the meal (after 2.5 hours) with dessert snacks of various textures and flavors. I was beyond stuffed and impressed.
I was also surprised that we had to pay for our meal where we checked in and weren’t given a bill or check. In the US, one rarely leaves the table without paying, but the trust and care shown to customers is unparalleled.
As my husband and I were heading out, the owner, Michael who knew we were Americans, wished us a Happy Thanksgiving and shared that his wife had prepared pumpkin pie at his other restaurant in honor of the holiday, if we were interested.
So kind. So full - both stomachs and hearts. Please give this place a visit if you’re in the area.
Written 29 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Quest13269837395
1 contribution
Apr 2024 • couples
The team at The Grove deserve their position as number 1 in these rankings. With high expectations for our special occasion, they delivered and showed us how high our expectations can be set for future experiences. After the 2nd set of amuse bouse I had my money's worth and the evening could have finished then. At the end of our third course my partner and I joked, " We need to either be poor, or starve" not knowing how we will return to our home kitchen and cook zucchini again. All, and I mean all, dishes surprised. The dishes also were delicately balanced with so many subtle elements that completed the courses concept. I also enjoyed how comfortable my partner was, she is often intimidated by fine dinning, only to remember this fact after I reminded her as we walked to the car. I cannot recommend The Grove enough for your special evenings. Only go for the 8 courses, as you'll regrett not enjoying the extra menu items, and leave the rest to the Chef. Thank you all who made our night special.
Written 10 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Wow, thank you so much for sharing your experience. We're thrilled you enjoyed it so much and truely appreciate your comments. We look forward to welcoming you both again.
Written 20 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dee
Auckland Central43 contributions
May 2024 • none
This is the hands down best fine dining experience in Auckland. We had not been to The Grove for some time and were impressed to find it was even better than we had remembered. The dining room is long and elegant and you instantly feel transported to a cocoon of calm and relaxation on arrival. The staff are welcoming and the service flows seamlessly, with just the right amount of attentiveness without being over the top. We had the eight course degustation with wine pairing. Such a creative menu with lots of little surprises to delight. The quality of each course and attention to detail was incredible and we are still debating what our favourite course was. We thought it really added to the experience to have Cory Campbell, the chef, come to the table to explain several of the courses too. The sommelier was very knowledgeable, introducing us to wines we may not have otherwise ever thought to try, which really enhanced the meal. Even though it was eight courses, the portions were just right and we didn't go away feeling like we had over indulged. We can't wait to return!
Review collected in partnership with www.restauranthub.co.nz
This business uses tools provided by Tripadvisor (or one of its official Review Collection Partners) to encourage and collect guest reviews, including this one.
Written 23 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thank you so much for your amazing review! We're thrilled that you had such a fantastic experience at The Grove. It's wonderful to hear that you found our fine dining experience to be the best in Auckland and that it exceeded your expectations upon your return.
We take great pride in our dining room ambiance and are delighted that you felt transported to a cocoon of calm and relaxation. Our team strives to provide seamless service with just the right amount of attentiveness, and we're glad you felt well taken care of during your eight-course degustation with wine pairing.
Chef Cory and our sommelier are indeed passionate about what they do, and it's fantastic to hear that their personal touches and recommendations added to your dining experience. We're thrilled that you enjoyed the creative menu and the attention to detail in each course.
We look forward to welcoming you back soon for another delightful culinary journey!
Written 7 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DayTrip06399880349
2 contributions
Mar 2024 • friends
Everything about this place is class and delicious. My friend Helena and I came for dinner and have been talking about it for weeks after. Every touchpoint was held with sentimental weight - from the waiting staff to the head chef himself serving a few courses to their sommelier explaining wine pairings. It was so much more than a dinner, but a whole experience! Special mention to the caviar bumps, the caviar melted in your mouth like butter and was made extra special with the beautiful cart is was bought to our table on. This place is a must visit in Auckland, and I'd go nowhere else when celebrating a special occasion - 12/10!
Written 3 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thank you for your outstanding review! We're delighted to hear that your dining experience at The Grove left such a lasting impression on both you and your friend Helena.
We take great pride in ensuring every detail of your visit is memorable, from the warm service provided by our waiting staff to the personal touch of having our head chef serve a few courses. Our sommelier is always eager to enhance your dining experience with expert wine pairings, and it's wonderful to know these elements contributed to making your evening special.
We're especially pleased that you enjoyed the caviar bumps. Our aim is to create exceptional culinary moments, and we're glad the presentation and taste exceeded your expectations.
Your kind words and high recommendation mean the world to us. We look forward to welcoming you back to The Grove for more unforgettable celebrations.
Written 8 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tourist68225022785
2 contributions
Jun 2024 • friends
What a truly amazing experience. The Grove presented me with one of the most memorable dinners ever. From the moment we sat down in this quiet, stylish, subtly lit restaurant everything was wonderful. Professional waiters, knowledgeable sommelier and obviously the most talented chef(s) in the kitchen. The Grove offers the choice of a six or eight course degustation, the menus changing constantly with the seasons and fresh produce availability. The symphony of flavours in every course is absolutely harmonious. The presentation of each pure artistry; clam shells, horse mussel shells, Indian salt platters etc all contribute to the dining pleasure. Each course expertly explained, and an absolute taste sensation, as the magical blend of flavours, with exciting nuances dance around your palate. Congratulations to the chef and all the staff
An absolute must for any serious foodie
Written 30 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael Dearth
Thank you so much for sharing your incredible experience at The Grove! We're absolutely delighted that we could make your dinner with us one of the most memorable you've ever had. From the moment you entered our quiet, stylish restaurant, it sounds like everything aligned perfectly for a wonderful evening.
Our team works tirelessly to ensure every aspect of your dining experience is exceptional. From our knowledgeable sommelier guiding you through wine selections to our talented chefs creating dishes that showcase the best seasonal ingredients, we aim to exceed expectations.
The choice between our six or eight-course degustation menus allows us to highlight the freshest produce available, ensuring each dish is a symphony of flavors that harmoniously dance on your palate. The presentation of each course is not just a meal but a work of art, with every detail carefully considered to enhance your dining pleasure.
Your compliments mean the world to us, and we will certainly share your praise with our entire team. We can't wait to welcome you back to The Grove for another exceptional culinary journey. Thank you again for choosing us and for being a serious foodie who appreciates our craft!
Written 12 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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