Auckland’s Best BYO

View the finalists


Nothing beats a classic BYO: Whether gathering the gals, communing with comrades or feasting with family, there’s a special place in our hearts for those spots that let us bring our own drop. Which is why we teamed up with our friends at the definitive Auckland foodie haven, Lazy Susan, to sniff out the city’s very best BYO.

After 100s of nominations from the public and expert deliberation from the qualified jury, 12 finalists were named. Another round of rigorous judging began as the judges set out to eat their way around each of the shortlisted restaurants in search of one who would take the crown – along with the prize: a $5000 small business support package tailored to their specific needs.

The public also had their say and hundreds of you showed your support for your local by voting for your favourite of the finalists. It was a tight race, and all of the finalists should be incredibly proud of their achievements, but only one winner can be named.

We’re pleased to announce that Auckland’s Best BYO for 2022 is El Greco in Campbell’s Bay. The welcoming, familial atmosphere, absolutely delicious food and, of course, tantalising BYO option, ticked all the boxes for a perfect dining experience.

The Judges

  • Anna King Shahab

    Lazy Susan co-founder, accomplished food and travel writer and competition judge extraordinaire

  • Anthony Suvalko

    Lazy Susan co-founder, cookbook creator and all-round foodie

  • Sam Low

    Champion barista, Instagram recipe king and Chinese gastronomy enthusiast

  • Samrudh Akuthota

    Restaurateur and unashamedly hedonistic food and beverage consumer

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