Basque Kitchen & Bar
(Spanish, Tapas)The Basque Kitchen & Bar is one of the latest additions to the Spanish and tapas cuisine arena in Auckland, and a very welcome one too, especially with its establishment as an oasis in the foodie desert that is the Newmarket district of central Auckland. There is nothing overly fancy about this stylish bar - it maintains what we consider an ideal balance of class and casualness, with a succinct yet well-endowed wine list because, well, what's tapas without some beautiful wine to go with, right? Bellota
(Tapas)We couldn't possibly talk about tapas restaurants in Auckland without mentioning Bellota, a landmark Peter Gordon institution celebrating the Spanish cuisine with a Kiwi flair tossed into the mix. This well-respected yet down-to-earth tapas joint serves some of the most authentic tapas in Auckland, with real and bold flavours. Pintxos and Spanish or European shooter wines are up for offer as well - what's not to like about this recommended tapas restaurant? CAC Bar & Eatery
(Mediterranean, Spanish, Tapas)While CAC Bar & Eatery may not be considered a gourmet's culinary pick, we decide to throw in this old Auckland tapas favourite because, amongst other reasons, CAC Bar & Eatery does old school, hearty fare incredibly well and has maintained its standards over the years - a rarity not only for restaurants in Auckland, what's more in a bar. Don't be fooled into thinking that CAC does nothing more than regular pub grub; their selection of generous tapas makes this tapas joint a great casual and unpretentious hangout with both the boys and/or girls on a night out. Dida's Wine and Tapas Lounge
(Mediterranean, Spanish, Tapas)In the heart of Herne Bay, Dida’s Wine & Tapas Lounge has a comprehensive wine list and an innovative, ever-changing tapas menu. A great choice for afterwork drinks, lunch with the girls (or boys of course) or just to linger and take in the ambient surroundings, Dida's Wine and Tapas Lounge is your home away from home. El Faro Spanish Restaurant & Tapas Bar
(Spanish, Tapas)The rustic and almost medieval Elliott Stables setting makes for a perfect backdrop for the yummy churros at El Faro. Having a catch-up session with the buddies or girlfriends over a few plates of tapas in the communal eating area will transport you back to New Zealand in the 1800's. This Auckland tapas restaurant wins a spot on our recommended Tapas Restaurants in Auckland list not only because of the magical setting, of course; the food is authentically Spanish, as is the delectable churros! Serafin Cafe & Bar
(Spanish, Tapas)Serafin Cafe & Bar's claim to fame and rise in popularity was propagated by the controversy surrounding it's inability to get its hands on a liquor license, thanks to the voiced fears of nearby residents who feared that the granting of the liquor license would bring unwanted drunkards to their neighbourhood.

We sure hope this issue hasn't overshadowed the essence of their food, because this Auckland tapas restaurant whips up some wonderfully authentic Spanish tapas which isn't a surprise, considering how both head chef and floor staff are native Spanish as well. Go for the al dente paella to go alongside their simple yet perfectly executed tapas, and don't forget to try this tapas restaurant's churros or torrijas before leaving!