Welcome to FQ Eats, our latest series where our editors recommend the best restaurants and bars around Aotearoa. This week, we reflect on the FQ Team’s lunch at Tāmaki Makaurau’s recently renovated La Zeppa.
Where
Overlooking Victoria Park, La Zeppa has long held a reputation as one of Auckland’s most beloved rooftop haunts. Now, it’s back with a Mediterranean-inspired makeover – complete with a reimagined menu, warm earthy tones, and an elevated yet relaxed atmosphere that hints at long, late summer nights ahead.
First impressions
The space strikes a balance between airy and intimate. Clusters of greenery anchor the centre, and a hidden private dining room gives it charm and dimension. The vibe? Effortlessly cool – think Sydney summer meets Euro courtyard, all without leaving the city.
The highlights
The newly designed bar is a standout – softly lit, fully stocked, and framed in neutral hues that speak to the venue’s fresh new direction. Art lovers will clock the Slim Aarons prints adorning the walls, alongside local artist Margarita Vovna’s work – a fitting nod to Mediterranean leisure culture that pairs perfectly with the updated aesthetic. And yes, we need to talk about the crumbed stuffed olives – they were unanimously voted the table favourite.
What we ate & drank
The refreshed menu leans into generous, share-friendly plates – perfect for groups or a long lunch that turns into sunset drinks. We sampled a range of dishes, including the aforementioned olives, burrata, fried calamari and skull island prawn, to name just a few – paired with a round of classic cocktails. The mini cocktail options are a clever touch – ideal for when you want to try more than one (and we did).
Final verdict
While it was a relaxed weekday lunch when we visited, it’s easy to picture La Zeppa in full swing – music humming, drinks flowing, and the rooftop buzzing as the sun sets. With its thoughtful revamp and laid-back Mediterranean spirit, this city favourite is more than ready for a triumphant return.
