Wapiti Bar — Restaurant in Albert-Eden

Relatively new in Auckland, we've been kind of watching this bar from afar for a while (Instagram). We haven't ventured there at night yet, when, it seems, the place overflows with vibes. As we were there when it was virtually empty - one or two other patrons - I can only refer you to their Instagram page for a sense of atmosphere, on which my rating for such is based.

We went there for an early afternoon beer and met the very warm and welcoming owner behind the bar, who was curious about where we were from, introduced themself and asked our names, etc. It seems like the place for locals where everybody knows your name - our kind of place.

Decided on a whim to try some of the food and shared a double cheese burger ($13.90) with super crispy fries (8.90). It was a huge portion for an unplanned meal. The burger is a two-hander and there were a lot of fries - a lot. We should have ordered the medium fries (3.90). It seems "super" describes the portion size rather than the crispiness of the fries.

That was a damn fine burger. Delicious patty, dripping with cheese, loaded with pickle. They also make damn good fries - they were super crispy.

The food is provided by Back to the Kitchen (yes, with a Back to the Future design aesthetic on their menu), which is structurally part of the place but an autonomous business, and reportedly one of the most popular delivery and take-out joints in the area.

I haven't had many burgers at eateries in Auckland yet. They tend to be over-priced, in my estimation. The burger by Back To The Kitchen at Wapiti Bar, though, sets a benchmark for price and deliciousness.

People also rave about the fried chicken, so that's on my radar....

Girls who are running this place are the nicest people to deal with, always so welcoming and helpful! This place is also the best burger spot in the area! Their burgers are so delicious and yum! Worth 100stars! Love loaded fries and boneless chicken too! Will be back for a bite this and following...

A nice friendly lil bar, the changes have made a difference, air con gaming room, great music, friendly service, terrific food and a great view, And has gotten even better, Grace has done a fantastic job of bringing us one of the hottest lil spots in town, thank you for the best burger...