Apero Food and Wine — Restaurant in Waitematā

Mona Lisa's smile - Apero at its creative best

Leonardo Da Vinci is considered one of the world's best engineers and painters. He stood astride the intersection of the arts and the sciences, and he is often regarded as history’s most creative genius.

It is da Vinci, who I was reminded of at Apero last night.

I arrived painfully on time to Apero and waited for my dining companion who was predictably, fashionably late. This afforded me time to take in my surrounds which were warm, inviting, and already humming with the chatter of happy diners.

Initially I wondered, as we were on the high seats at the window, if we would be ignored or feel disconnected with the rest of the space; but this couldn't have been farther from the truth.

We were greeted by the co-owner Mo, who was genuinely interested in us as diners and people -  instantly creating a rapport with us. So much so, if he had recommended the storm water run off and shoe scrapings, we probably would have gone with it!

Of course there were far more favorable offerings, and Mo unpacked the menu with the confidence and enthusiasm of a kid opening presents on Christmas morn.

Torn between almost everything up for grabs we settled for the Raviolo, the three-way Duck Terrine, the Broccolini and, house special, 1/4 m Pork Sausage, complimented by two healthy measures of an Argentinian Malbec (FYI $151 all up at the end of the night).

The friendly, attentive, but not intrusive waiter meant we enjoyed our banter and food - and were never short on the water or wine.

I loved the house special - a favorite for a clear reason given its warmth, balance and perfect seasoning. He liked the terrine for its clean palate and pretty presentation.

Da Vinci spent an age studying the science of the face, and the last part of his life perfecting his art to create the beauty and simplicity of Mona Lisa's smile.

This is what Apero has done. Perfecly balanced, rich, complex and fulfilling nosh without any of the pretentious palava you often get at the high end.

Science meets art. Beauty and simplicity.

So, sure, you could go to a "high end"/"big name" restaurant. Sure, you could find a place with a bigger menu, or cellar...but why would you want to?

For me, Apero is the best dining experience I have ever had in Auckland. A BIG statement for me. I now challenge the rest of the Auckland establishments to meet this standard (good luck).

If she were alive today, da Vinci's muse would be smiling indeed. We...

Absolutely loved this place.

Atmosphere and service? Tick tick!! Staff friendly, attentive and accommodating. Felt like guests, not just customers. Wine knowledge extensive and recommendations spot on.

Food?! Fabulous. We needed a bit of a break from meats, but still had to try the house-made boar coppa. Not too salty, excellent marbling, very more-ish.

Could have eaten a bucketload of the goat's cheese croquettes. The almond and honey totally made those.

Ah, the tomato salad. Sounds plain, but no - oxheart tomatoes and nectarine bursting with flavour, basil and parmesan the perfect addition to cut through.

Then, we moved onto mains with a vegie focus. Mixed mushrooms; sweetcorn with buffalo strachiatelli and a roasted cauliflower dish. Sounds plain, but totally wasn't! Produce shone through and carefully chosen additions like hazelnuts, oregano or goats' cheese totally knocked it out of the park!

Just managed to squeeze in an apricot tart at the end. Again, nailed it it and husbo enjoyed his congac. OMG, I miss good quality apricots (I live in a hot, humid place these days, so good apricots are just not a thing).

Wine list well chosen with plenty of options by the glass. Staff on hand to provide good food and wine matches. Hint: walk, don't drive, so you can make the most of the wine list.

Thank you so much Leslie, Mo and team. You are our new Auckland hang-out and we will be back next time we venture...

Apéro is the kind of place that reminds you why dining out is so special, and it’s no surprise that Leslie and Mo have built such a loyal following over the years. As someone who works in the industry and owns a food business, I have so much admiration for what they do. Running a business, balancing life with a young child, and still delivering excellence every service is no small feat—and they make it look effortless. Their passion shines through every plate, and it’s truly inspiring.

Every visit to Apéro has been outstanding, and our most recent date night was no exception. The food is always seasonal, fresh, and incredibly thoughtful—perfectly blending French technique with New Zealand’s best ingredients. And the wine? Absolutely spot on. No notes.

I also have huge respect for their decision to operate on hours that work for their family. In this industry, that’s a bold move, but it speaks to their confidence and skill. People are more than willing to plan around their schedule because what they offer is that good. Walk in, take a seat, and trust that you’re in for something special.

Apéro is a must-visit in Auckland. Love it, love...