Eastern Grill — Restaurant in Ōtara-Papatoetoe

If you’re looking for a spot in South Auckland that delivers bold Mediterranean flavors, laid-back vibes, and a complete dining experience, Eastern Grill in Manukau is one place that absolutely deserves your attention.

Tucked away in the heart of Manukau, Eastern Grill offers much more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with the grilled meats, and baked bread instantly whetting your appetite.

The menu is packed with Mediterranean staples and crowd-pleasers. Whether you’re after a plate of crisp falafel, or creamy hummus paired with fresh, fluffy pita bread, you’re in for a treat. Their lamb is a standout—slow-cooked, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, wrapped in soft flatbread or served over rice. The chicken skewers are also incredibly tender, and the garlic sauce? Smooth, garlicky bliss.

But what really sets Eastern Grill apart is what it offers beyond the plate. They have a relaxed outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying the warm evening air with friends or family. The vibe is social and unpretentious, making it a great place to hang out for a while.

Adding to that, Eastern Grill serves alcohol, so you can enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine alongside your meal. And if you’re after a more chilled, social experience after dinner, they’ve got hookah (shisha) available in a range of different flavors—a popular touch that really brings out that traditional Middle Eastern lounge vibe. Whether you’re into fruity flavors like grape, mint, or apple, or something more exotic, there’s something for everyone.

The staff are friendly, attentive, and more than happy to make recommendations if you’re not sure what to try. Service is quick, and portions are generous—great value for the quality and quantity of food you get.

Whether you’re catching up with friends, going on a casual date, or just after a solid meal in a relaxed setting, Eastern Grill delivers on all fronts. It’s the kind of place you go once and immediately add to your...

Took my family here for lunch, ordered drinks first and the lady asked if we'd like our drinks with our food or before - we all said before, ASAP please. We ordered the food at the counter and got settled into our table. Other customers coming in and doing the same, being served their drinks but not us... 20mins later were all pretty thirsty so I went to ask about our drinks where the lady said yeah she'll bring them right over as they're all done and have just been waiting. Why...... Food arrived. I ordered rare steak and it was near well-done, salad was plain and tasteless. My sons ordered pasta and my pasta loving teens didnt like it at all (they're not fussy at all). I had to use the bathroom while there and I can honestly say ive never seen one so gross. Holes in the walls that have been patched up with duct tape, black mould growing up the length of the door, basin tap loose, sink filthy and the room smelt like pee. This was a massive let down and made me question the cleanliness of...

M'husband is good friends with the owner ! I was very hesitant about going here one night, but my husband promised me it'll be good. As per usual I just gave in :) we sat in the outside area & it was warm, listening to the amount of fun, laughs and happy joyful voices of other customers around us made the company so much better for my husband and I !! We ordered burger means & a mushroom chicken with mash potato & we were just thrown off our seats as we dug into our meals !! So freshly made, perfectly cooked, smells tasty and all of the above. We smashed throughout our dinner meals and couldn't help but be so full :) we did promise the boss and staff we will be back. This restaurant is definitely recommended. Loads of laughs and people just having a good time & the food is absolutely THE BEST !!!! Thank you Eastern Grill Staff for making us feel at home & welcome on our first night here