Our dining experience at Lillius was truly the best we've ever had. From start to finish, it was a two-hour journey of exceptional flavors and atmosphere. The mocktails were great! The five-course tasting menu was absolutely unreal! Each dish was a delight. The ambiance was just right, with lighting thoughtfully adjusted to match the mood, creating a relaxed and inviting setting. The team made the entire experience seamless and enjoyable, especially our waiter. We can't wait to return to Lillius!
Overview
Nestled on 19 Khyber Pass Road in the heart of Grafton, Auckland, Lillius Restaurant offers a unique culinary experience that combines sophistication with a relaxed atmosphere. The moment you step through its doors, you’re greeted by a warm ambiance that’s perfect for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Auckland, Lillius stands out for its fresh, contemporary approach to dining.
The restaurant’s menu is a testament to culinary creativity, with each dish prepared to highlight the best local and seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re craving a rich, savory entrée or a light, refreshing salad, Lillius doesn’t disappoint. What makes the restaurant particularly unique is its ability to blend traditional flavors with modern techniques, creating a dining experience that feels both comforting and adventurous.
From the starters to the mains, the variety of options is impressive. One standout dish is the roasted lamb with a side of seasonal vegetables, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The delicate balance of textures and seasonings makes it clear that the chefs at Lillius are masters of their craft. For seafood lovers, the grilled snapper with a tangy citrus dressing is a refreshing choice, offering the perfect balance of freshness and zest.
The drink menu at Lillius Restaurant is equally thoughtfully curated, with a selection of fine wines, craft cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages. The wine list features a mix of local New Zealand wines, as well as international options that pair beautifully with the restaurant’s diverse offerings. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to recommend pairings based on your meal choice, ensuring that every sip complements your dish perfectly.
What truly elevates the experience at Lillius, however, is the service. The staff are attentive without being intrusive, striking the perfect balance between professionalism and warmth. Whether it’s a recommendation for your next course or simply checking in to make sure you’re enjoying your meal, the staff’s dedication to providing excellent service is evident at every turn.
As for the ambiance, Lillius Restaurant exudes modern elegance. The interior is sleek and contemporary, with minimalist decor that allows the food to take center stage. Soft lighting creates a cozy atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a long day or celebrating a special occasion. The layout offers a variety of seating options, from cozy corners for a quiet dinner to larger tables that are perfect for gatherings.
In terms of location, Grafton provides a convenient spot for those wanting to explore the city while enjoying a high-quality meal. Auckland’s central business district is just a short drive away, and the restaurant is easily accessible by public transport, making it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists alike.
Reviews of Lillius Restaurant consistently highlight its ability to offer an elevated dining experience in a relaxed setting. Guests often praise the impeccable service, the creative menu, and the cozy atmosphere. The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many noting the restaurant’s consistency in delivering high-quality dishes that surprise and delight with each visit.
It’s easy to see why Lillius Restaurant has earned its reputation as one of the top dining spots in Auckland. Its commitment to quality, innovative menu offerings, and outstanding service make it a must-visit for anyone in the area looking for a memorable dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Lillius provides the perfect setting for any meal.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Dine-in âś“ Delivery âś“ TakeawayHighlights
âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great wine listPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ DinnerAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Spirits âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Cosy âś“ Romantic âś“ Trendy âś“ UpmarketCrowd
âś“ GroupsPlanning
âś“ Lunch reservations recommended âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 224 reviews
We had 2 dietary requirement girlies in our group and the staff at Lilius were so good, even calling to double check alternative options suited. I was SO impressed! The food was outstanding, and so beautifully presented! The wine was also superb and all of the wait staff were exceptional! Definitely recommended! Perfect for a date or girls night!
Fantastic restaurant. We did the 5 courses with add ons and a wine match. The food was so creative, all components of the dish were well thought out and complimented each other. The wine was matched perfectly to the dishes. Was a great experience. Service was friendly and knowledgeable.
Had dined at Lillius several times to celebrate family member's birthday. Would 100% recommend if you enjoy contemporary dish. Service were beutiful, note they do have younger, less experienced staff for FOH but the manager always keeps a eye on all of the tables. They have open kitchen so you can see the chefs doing magic and gives an magical experience when you are waiting for the next dish. Table had plenty of space between with low volume music great for chat. Can't wait for next visit!
We've had an amazing dinner. Surprised we haven't heard of this place until recently. Delicious flavors presented beautifully
Remarkable cuisine, absolutely delicious. Use more plates than bowls for plating would be more prettier. Service-wise, improvements can be made to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
Fabulous meal, great service, if you're a foodie this is a must visit. We did the 5 course degustation meal with a wine match. The food was exquisite, the starters a big highlight for my wife. I really enjoyed the kingfish and lamb rump. Some really interesting wines in the wine match. The Central Otago botanical to start was like no other wine I've tasted before, as described it was much more like a vermouth. I'm trying to source some bottles now! The service was excellent, overall a top notch dining experience.
Highly recommend and for some reason out of all the fine dining restaurants… this is the most favourite one. Nothing over fancy, nothing over expensive and the flavour of the seasonal food just bounce out of your taste bud. We are here for early valentine celebration, will definitely come back.