Xuxu Dumpling Bar
It's far from conventional, but I can't go past Xuxu Dumpling Bar's fish, sambal and coconut dumplings – an amazing flavour combination – or the richness of their duck and leek fried dumplings. And the fit-out, tucked in behind a wall of greenery makes you forget that you're in central Auckland (super cosy if the rain's dumping down outside).
Melinda Williams, design editor
Where: Cnr Galway and Commerce Sts, Britomart Contact: 09 309 5529 Visit: Xuxu.co.nz
Basu Lounge
Nothing glam about the Basu Lounge but the fact people, including me, wait for seats for a filling feed of dumplings at this efficient cafeteria-style place is a good pointer to its tasty value. The cucumber salad in chilli oil sauce is a great accompaniment to a big plate of steamed or fried dumplings.
Janetta Mackay, beauty editor
Where: 452 Lake Rd, Takapuna Beach Contact: 09 486 2962 Visit: Facebook.com/Basulounge
Grand Harbour
I'd make a Saturday visit to Grand Harbour a weekly tradition if I could, but since it usually involves Tsing Tao and over-ordering, I don't think it's a good idea. Their dim sum menu is great, best shared with friends or family so you can order lots of it. I like the coriander; watercress; and prawn dumplings, preferably swimming in a bowl of soy sauce and chilli oil. Don't miss the sticky rice ice cream balls to finish.
Johanna Thornton, deputy editor
Where: Grand Harbour, Cnr Pakenham St & Customs St West, Viaduct Harbour Contact: 09 357 6889 Visit: Grandharbour.co.nz
Xi'an Food Bar
Xi'an at the bottom of Anzac Ave does amazing hand-pulled noodles. Their noodles with braised pork is my pick – plus it's big enough to save some for the next day.
Rosie Herdman, writer and fashion assistant
Where: 11 Anzac Ave, City Contact: 09 368 7600
Barilla Dumplings
I always have the steamed vegetable dumplings which I drench in soy, vinegar and chilli oil. Barilla also does this amazing sweet and sticky aubergine dish which is highly addictive.
Rebecca Zephyr Thomas, photographer
Where: 571 Dominion Rd, Balmoral Contact: 09 638 8032 Visit: Barilladumpling.com
Shaolin Kung Fu Noodle
The braised eggplant at Shaolin Kung Fu Noodle alongside a plate of vege dumplings (or soup filled with thick handmade noodles) is my ideal Sunday dinner. Their bright table tops are also a welcome distraction if you're feeling impatient after ordering.
India Essuah, writer
Where: 636 Dominion Rd, Balmoral Contact: 09 623 6298 Visit: Kungfunoodle.co.nz
Ramen Takara Ponsonby
This cute noodle and sake bar on Ponsonby Rd is forever an easy go-to. The courtyard out the back is toasty, the food consistently good and service friendly. In winter it's hard to go past a steaming bowl of spicy Miso Ramen. The vegetable gyozas are delicious too.
Sarah Downs, writer
Where: 272 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby Contact: 09 360 6111 Visit: Ramentakara.co.nz/Ponsonby
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Head to this unassuming joint for hands down the best seafood laksa in Auckland. This rich Malaysian noodle soup is served in epically large bowls that are in theory big enough for sharing, but chances are you won't want to once you start slurping.
Saru Krishnasamy, digital editor
Where: 487 Khyber Pass Rd, Newmarket Contact: 09 520 7977
