Cover image credit: Milenta
When it comes to a perfectly cooked steak, Auckland doesn’t mess around. From old-school steakhouses serving up dry-aged cuts with all the trimmings to contemporary spots putting their own spin on the classics, the city’s steak scene has serious depth. So loosen your belt, sharpen your knife, and get ready to eat your way through the city’s best steak destinations.
Venues are listed in no particular order.
1. Milenta
Tucked away in Victoria Park Market, Milenta is where South American soul food meets Auckland’s love affair with a good steak. This city centre spot does things a little differently, blending bold open-fire flavours and uncompromising charm that’s perfect for the leisure of balmy evenings.
The ribeye steak grilled over open fire is an absolute showstopper – a tender, delicious cut that’s big enough to share (though you probably won’t want to). For a flavour boost, the smoked bone marrow and salsa roja are always spot-on sides to go with your steak. Milenta’s wholesome approach proves that sometimes the best steaks come with a side of fried bread and South American hospitality.
Location: 210-218 Victoria Street West
Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 5 – 10pm;
Thursday to Saturday 12 – 4pm, 5 – 10pm

2. Cazador
Award winning Auckland stalwart Cazador has been serving up exceptional game in Mount Eden since the 80s, and their old-world way with it is nothing short of legendary. The family-run restaurant is located a little off the beaten track, but it knows that great meaty meal doesn’t need to shout – it just needs to be cooked to perfection with quality ingredients and a whole lot of heart.
Chef Dariush Lolaiy’s menu is bold and rustic, and whatever wild, organic, free range meat the hunters bring in gets cooked to perfection. On any given day, that might be an entire leg of NZ Wapiti deer, coal grilled duck, or a beautiful cut of venison—the stuff of carnivorous dreams.
Location: 854 Dominion Road, Auckland
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 5pm – late
3. Gilt Brasserie
Gilt Brasserie brings all day European elegance to Auckland’s inner city with a menu that takes steak seriously. The contemporary space within the historic Chancery Chambers Building is all understated luxury – think geometric flooring, warm lighting, and plush seating around the bar and light-filled windows. This is where you come when you want to feel fancy without the fuss.
Their Wagyu sirloin is pure indulgence – butter-soft, perfectly cooked, and served with a sauce au poivre that let the quality of the meat shine through. And in true French style, there will be plenty of frites to go with that. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just treating yourself, Gilt delivers that five-star experience when it comes to steak nights.
Location: 2, Chancery Chambers
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:30 – late

4. Oyster & Chop
Don’t let the name fool you – while Oyster & Chop does exceptional seafood, their chops are equally worth the trip. This sun-soaked bar and eatery offers the perfect blend of ocean views, cocktails, live entertainment and most importantly, a great steak (and seafood to boot). The glasshouse interior with marble tables and plenty of light makes steak night feel like a breezy occasion.
Most popular is their scotch fillet with mushroom sauce, a classic that simply cannot go wrong. Whether you’re starting with oysters or diving straight into the meat, this harbourfront bistro delivers a dining experience that’s polished, flavourful, and exceedingly satisfying.
Location: Market Place, Viaduct, Auckland
Hours: Daily 11:30am – late
5. New York Grill
Located on the vibrant rooftop of the Newmarket Westfield, New York Grill does exactly what it says on the tin – serves up American-style steaks with all the swagger and style you’d expect from a proper NY steakhouse. The sumptuous meat-first restaurant sports a sleek butcher-inspired dining room with cosmopolitan charm, making it a solid spot for chic steak dinners with a date or the mates alike.
The butter aged scotch fillet is richly marbled, seared to perfection, and not to be missed. Add a side of truffle fries and you’re living your best life. If you’re here with a group, go for the Butcher’s Block — chef’s choice of three premium cuts perfect for sharing.
Location: Rooftop Westfield, 309 Broadway Newmarket, Auckland
Hours: Daily, 11am – late

6. The Cut Restaurant and Bar
Nestled in Rydges Hotel amidst the CBD, The Cut takes its steak-given namesake seriously – think dry-aging room and multiple cuts from around the world. This modern steakhouse is all about showcasing premium beef in a setting that feels both refined and relaxed.
The Wakanui Angus sirloin is is a testament to New Zealand beef done right – tender, flavourful, and char grilled to perfection. But if you’re feeling adventurous, their selection of dry-aged cuts and international beef varieties will have you coming back to work your way through the menu.
Location: 59 Federal Street, Auckland Central
Hours: Daily 12 – 4:30pm; 5 – 10pm