kingi (short for kingfish) offers fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, game and New Zealand produce in thoughtful, approachable ways. Located just steps from The Hotel Britomart lobby on the brick-lined laneway between Galway St and Customs St East, kingi is open all day and evening, for everything from early-morning coffee and classic cheese rolls, through brunch and lunch, to drinks and larger plates at night.
The restaurant is designed to be a place where people “can come and not spend the earth, where they can sit down for a glass of wine and olives one night and another night sit down for a longer meal. There’s no pressure; it’s a neighbourhood home away from home,” say founders Tom Hishon and Josh Helm, who also lead award-winning eateries Orphans Kitchen and Daily Bread. The drinks menu centres around New Zealand and Australian wines with a scattering of international selections, a handful of elegant cocktails, New Zealand beers and the full range of daytime beverages.
kingi Private
kingi Private is a sophisticated, brick-lined private dining or conference space that brings together the relaxed warmth of kingi and the refined elegance of The Libraries at The Hotel Britomart. An expansive raw-edge swamp kauri slab table sits beneath a shimmering fish-scale chandelier, while the glass-boxed ‘larder kitchen’ gives diners fascinating glimpses of chefs preparing seasonal dishes.
Find out more and book here.
Winner of Iconic Auckland Eats 2025 for Hot Smoked Kahawai
Spotlight on ...
Sustainable, new menu at kingi
kingi enters a new era, with a fresh menu that expands its sustainable ethos and showcases new independent growers and gatherers from all over Aotearoa.
Enjoy tender Canterbury lamb rump from Lumina Farms, served with cauliflower, wild garlic, and asparagus. Discover the rich flavour of Cambridge duck breast, paired with smooth carrot purée and sweet apricot.
This is more than dining—it’s a journey through New Zealand’s landscapes, brought to life on the plate.
Park for $2.50 per hour at the Downtown car park to a maximum of $15.50 on evenings and weekends. Find out more.
Last updated:
21 November 2025
