Ponsonby’s renowned restaurant and bar festival, Eat Drink Love Ponsonby, is making a return for its fifth year, bringing an array of delectable flavours from around the globe, to the iconic Auckland Ponsonby Road strip.
From the vibrant streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Bali, the rich heritage of Malaysia to the diverse landscapes of India and the rustic charm of Italy, the festival promises a culinary adventure that transcends borders.
Running from May 1-28, this much-loved festival is set to entice diners with more than 65 offers tailored to every palate and budget, as well as some one-off special events.
Festival-goers can explore options categorised into three price bands: $30 and under, $30 to $50, and $50 and over.
The festival culminates on Tuesday, May 28, with PonsonBurger—where, for one day only, the precinct pays homage to International Burger Day and that beloved classic, the humble burger. More than 25 venues will proudly unveil their finest burger creations, promising a tantalising array of flavours and culinary delights. A complete lineup of participating venues will be revealed on May 8.
The festival also features exclusive one-off events and collaborations, including a night of dinner and comedy at INCA with chef Nic Watt and Japanese-Australian comedian Takashi Wakasugi. The comedy doesn’t stop here, with more than 10 NZ International Comedy Festival shows taking place at Ponsonby’s home of improv, the Covert Theatre, complete with pre-theatre dining offers from popular nearby venues.
Live music events include brunch and lunch hotspot Bambina Cafe, showcasing New Zealand Roots Musicians Paul Gurney & Richard Adams in celebration of New Zealand Music Month.
Two movie opening night and dinner combos are also on offer at Ponsonby Central’s luxury cinema, Silky Otter, while family favourite and Italian stalwart Prego is offering free face painting for mini diners on specific weekends.
The ‘Brunch’ section rounds out the 2024 festival offering, reinforcing Ponsonby as so much more than a lunch, dinner or drinks destination, with an array of breakfast and brunch venues, too.
Ponsonby Business Association General Manager Viv Rosenberg says she is delighted with the record number of participating venues for the 2024 festival, up more than 30% on 2023.
“There’s a reason Ponsonby was named one of the coolest neighbourhoods globally in Time Out in 2023 – there really is something for everyone, from our impressive Ponsonby Central precinct to our popular International Food Court and everything in between for dinner, drinks, live music, comedy, cinema, from intimate dining to larger gatherings.
“We are delighted with not only the record number of registrations this year but with the quality of the offers across every category, and the introduction of PonsonBurger, our grand finale,” she says.
“We’re also proud of the evolution of the festival, the new brunch category and a focus on bringing some of our wonderful cafes into the festival. Ponsonby can’t wait to welcome everyone to Eat Drink Love Ponsonby 2024.”
Make a note in your diaries and sign up online for regular updates. The complete list of participating outlets for Eat Drink Love Ponsonby 2024 is available today, April 10, at eatdrinkloveponsonby.co.nz. All offers will be accessible between May 1 to May 28 only. PonsonBurger venues and menus will be revealed on May 8.
