White & Wong’s (Auckland CBD, New Zealand)

Lunch with a view at White & Wong’s—where East meets West in Auckland’s Viaduct. Think crispy salt & pepper squid, creamy market oysters, and Wagyu shumai, all served against a waterfront backdrop. A feast for the senses.

For months, my wife and I had walked past White & Wong’s during evening strolls along the Viaduct, lured by its glowing façade but deterred by the thumping music (whether from them or their neighbours, we couldn’t tell). Finally, we opted for a Friday lunch—no basslines, just sunlight glinting off the harbour and the promise of an indulgent meal.

First Impressions: A Jungle of Glamour

Stepping inside felt like entering a tropical speakeasy. Monkey chandeliers swung overhead, a wall of ceramic fish stared bemusedly, and the jungle-themed bathrooms begged for Instagram stories. The waterfront seating offered prime views of docked yachts, setting the stage for a leisurely, share-style feast.

Service was polished from the start. Our server guided us through the pan-Asian menu—a fusion of Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese street food with modern twists—while I sipped a Tiger Crystal beer and a tangy, spirit-free margarita.

The Food: Fusion with Flair

Market Oysters (6 for NZ$39)
Plump and briny, topped with chilli jam, lime, and crispy shallots. The contrast of creamy flesh and zesty toppings was a masterclass in balance.

Salt & Pepper Squid (NZ$24)
A standout. Tender squid, lightly dusted with five-spice, paired with a sweet-tart tamarind caramel and herb-flecked salsa. The batter was crisp without greasiness—a rarity.

Bang Bang Chicken Roti Roll (NZ$18)
A playful take on Peking duck pancakes. Shredded chicken, slaw, and herbs tumbled out of a flaky roti, drizzled with sesame dressing. Messy? Yes. Delicious? Absolutely.

Kung Pao Chicken (NZ$34)
Less fiery than traditional versions but packed with umami depth, tender chicken, crunchy beans, and peanuts in a glossy sauce. A safe bet for spice-averse diners.

Wagyu Beef Shumai (4 for NZ$17)
Juicy dumplings with a shiitake-cumin kick. The Wagyu filling was rich, though the delicate wrappers stole the show.

The Verdict: Style & Substance

White & Wong’s nails the “vibrant fusion” brief. Dishes are designed for sharing (and Instagramming), with flavours dialled down slightly for broad appeal. Purists might crave more heat, but the quality is undeniable—especially the fresh seafood and handmade curries.

Highlights:

• Ambiance: Glamorous yet relaxed, with waterfront views.
• Service: Attentive and swift, even during dish-by-dish sharing.
• Must-Orders: Salt & pepper squid, oysters, roti roll.

Tips:

• Visit at lunch for a quieter vibe.
• Share widely—the menu rewards exploration.
• Skip dessert if you’re full; the mains are the stars.

White + Wong’s – Auckland Viaduct, CBD
Address: 149 Quay Street Cnr Lower Hobson & Quay Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Phone: +649 379 6914
Website: https://whiteandwongs.nz/