About La Zeppa Kitchen and Bar
La Zeppa Kitchen and Bar is a large Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar in Auckland’s Freemans Bay, located at 33 Drake Street behind Victoria Park . Housed in a converted industrial warehouse, it blends casual and upscale elements. The interior can feel like a New York-style loft – exposed brick walls, wrought-iron candelabras and a huge open fireplace give it warm, rustic charm . An open kitchen and bustling bar emphasize the social atmosphere. La Zeppa advertises itself as a “restaurant + bar + sundeck,” highlighting its signature outdoor deck overlooking the park . The venue is unusually spacious for the city – Cook Brothers (the owner group) notes it can host anywhere from about 10 up to 600 guests , so it can handle intimate dinners or very large gatherings. In short, La Zeppa is known as an iconic, inner-city hangout that prioritizes good food, wine and social dining – “an ultimate meeting place” where people gather over cocktails and tapas .
Events and Programming
La Zeppa isn’t just a restaurant – it also runs a variety of special nights and one-off events. For example, it has weekly deals like a 3-course “Ladies Lunch” (Thursday–Saturday) for $49 including a drink , and a Wednesday Pasta Night ($39 per person for pasta + tiramisu) . There are regular happy-hour specials on Fridays (beer and spritz promotions) . Seasonal promotions often appear too – in past years La Zeppa has held a month-long Negroni celebration each September with custom cocktails . Beyond food deals, La Zeppa’s calendar includes unique dining experiences and social events. Recent listings show themed dinners and workshops (for instance, wine-tasting dinners like a six-course “Matawhero Masterclass” with a local winemaker , and art nights like wine & painting classes). In 2022 it hosted theatrical dining experiences (“The Dancing Queen” musical dinner) and business networking socials. La Zeppa frequently plays host to local DJs – the owners point out that weekend DJs spin tunes “for their customers each evening” . One of the venue’s biggest highlights is its annual Summer Carnival, a day-time rooftop party ( November) with live DJs, outdoor games and $1 tapas. This summer carnival became a mini-festival (featuring sets by DJs like Sal Valentine, Jetski Safari, Mia Paris, DJ Aroha, The Saxobros and more ). Many of these events were free or R18 (for instance the 2024 carnival was free admission with an 18+ age limit ). In short, visitors can expect live DJ music, wine dinners, shared-plate parties, and eye-catching themed events as part of La Zeppa’s programming mix.
Tickets and Booking
Since La Zeppa is primarily a restaurant-bar, everyday dining doesn’t require a ticket – you simply walk in or get a reservation. The venue’s website provides a booking contact (and notes hours of 12pm “till late” every day ) so you can reserve tables by calling or emailing. For larger group reservations (parties, corporate events) you can arrange special menus or exclusive use through their functions team . However, special events and themed evenings often need prepaid tickets. For example, advertised wine-pairing dinners or interactive shows are sold through authorized channels. A recent Matawhero wine dinner at La Zeppa was $130 per person . In the past, ticket sales for events like dinner parties or trivia would be announced on the venue’s site or local Auckland event listings. When shows are announced (e.g. festival parties or multi-course dinners), tickets typically go on sale weeks in advance. For popular events, it’s wise to book early – some seats or tables can sell out. There is no box-office on site other than the restaurant counter, so all ticketing and private event bookings happen online or by phone. Nightly restaurant service itself is a la carte; you simply pay for the food and drink you order. (Do note that the annual La Zeppa Summer Carnival and similar public parties have been “free admission” events , aside from any drink or food you purchase.)
Seating and Layout
La Zeppa’s interior is large and open-plan. The main space is a converted warehouse hall with tables of various sizes. There is a central bar, alongside low lounge tables and higher dining tables around it. In one corner is a big fireplace framed by comfortable booths. Above (or behind) the main area is the famed sundeck – an outdoor bar/lounge area with seating overlooking the park and city (guests have remarked on the “great view of the Sky Tower” from this deck ). Seating is generally unassigned – you can sit at any open table. A group can gather at long banquet tables, or you can sit at smaller intimate tables. There are no distinct VIP sections for casual diners, though for private functions part of the space can be sectioned off. Acoustically, the venue can get loud when busy: the hard floors and brick walls make for a lively echo, especially with live DJ music. This creates a festive, club-like vibe on busy nights, but it may be harder to have quiet conversation when the crowd fills in. Some visitors recommend choosing seats near the edges or outside if you prefer a bit more space and fresh air. Overall, the best spots depend on your priority – fire-side seats for coziness, deck seats for views, barstools for casual drinks – all offer solid experiences in La Zeppa’s alluring industrial setting .
Getting There and Parking
La Zeppa is at 33 Drake Street in Freemans Bay, just west of the CBD . It’s right behind the Victoria Park Market (whose car park is about a block away). If driving, the nearest public car park is the Fanshawe Street Car Park (behind the park) – on weekends it offers a flat rate of about $7.50 per day . On-street parking around Drake Street is metered or time-limited (especially during the day, so check signs). During events or peak nights street parking can fill up quickly, so using the Fanshawe car park (or nearby paid lots) is recommended. For public transit, several Auckland bus routes stop nearby on Federal Street or Victoria Street West; the free City Link/InnerLink buses have stops a short walk away near Victoria Park. (If you come by train, the closest station is Britomart or Aotea, then a 10–15 min walk.) Free shuttle or “kids ride free” deals run on weekends as a city promotion – children travel free on buses and trains on weekends and holidays, which can be useful for family outings. Rideshare and taxi drop-offs can easily use Drake St or Federal St outside the venue. Note that the main entrance is at street level on Drake, so it’s easy to find. Also, for evening visits: last trains and buses from the city run around midnight, and the city center is well served by late-night buses and ride-hailing. Overall, plan to allow a 5–10 minute walk from central Auckland, or use the nearby car park and then stroll (the area is lively and well-lit after dark).
Inside the Venue
Upon entering La Zeppa, you’ll typically be greeted by a host or bartender who will offer you a table or seat at the bar. As a licensed bar/restaurant, they will check IDs for anyone drinking alcohol after 8pm or so (standard NZ practice). The main lounge and dining floors are on one level. Décor is atmospheric: dim knobs of light, candles on wrought-iron candelabras, and a mix of booth and table seating. The open kitchen is visible, so you may see chefs preparing tapas-style plates in real time . Staff are friendly and will either serve you at the table or at the bar depending on where you sit. La Zeppa has full bar service – a broad wine list, local and imported beers on tap, plus crafted cocktails (e.g. classic Spritzes, a signature drinking menu). The house often features specials (like a spritz menu at happy hour ). Food is mostly shared plates (small tapas, larger mains), so it’s common to order a few dishes per person. Expect table service for food; drinks can be ordered at the bar. They do not advertise a coat check, so most people simply tuck jackets/coats on their chairs. There is usually an ATM in the area, but credit/debit cards are widely accepted at the register. As for facilities, there are restrooms on the main level (likely one of them is wheelchair-accessible by NZ standards). No specific dispensing of water jugs was noted, but tap water is free as normal. La Zeppa does not appear to market free Wi-Fi – assume you’ll rely on mobile data. In terms of rules: outside food/drink is not allowed (it’s fully licensed), and photography is generally okay for personal use but large cameras/studios would be managed by staff. Check with staff on regulations like bag sizes if needed. In short, expect a fun, casual atmosphere: the place fills with local jazz or lounge music by day and becomes an upbeat party vibe at night, with resident DJs mixing tunes for the crowd . It’s the kind of spot where notices say at the entrance might be minimal – treat it as a trendy bar, not a formal theatre – just bring your ID and enjoy.
Nearby Amenities
Freemans Bay itself has plenty to offer around La Zeppa. On Drake Street and nearby Great North Road you’ll find several other bars and eateries – for instance, Culprit Brew & Co (a Kiwi comfort-food pub) is literally next door. Victoria Park Market (right in front of Drake St) contains casual dining spots and cafes, so you could grab coffee or brunch hours before an evening show. For a pre- or post-La Zeppa meal, consider the diverse options of Ponsonby or the CBD just a short walk away – Ponsonby Road (1 km north) is famous for brunch spots, pizza and Indian food, while Commerce/Stuart Street in the CBD has everything from pubs to sushi. There are also small grocery and convenience stores on nearby streets if you need last-minute items. In terms of staying overnight, several hotels are within 1–2 km: for example, the Sofitel on Symonds Street, Ibis on Lorne Street, Novotel on Victoria Street, etc., are all an easy 5–10 minute drive or 15–20 minute walk away. Late-night snack options (open past 10pm) are limited in the small street itself, but nearby King’sland and Karangahape Road/Queen Street have takeaway places. Should you need entertainment after La Zeppa, the Victoria Park area often hosts weekend street fairs and markets, and the 24-hour Putney Rd dining precinct is a 5-minute drive away for dancing or karaoke. Finally, if you’re driving home, note that nearby main roads (Victoria St/Federal St) have taxi ranks; and at night ride-share drop on Drake St is very common. In short, La Zeppa sits amid a lively inner-city neighborhood with plenty of restaurants, bars, hotels and shops within walking distance.
What Makes This Venue Special
La Zeppa’s popularity comes from its unique blend of intimate dining and lively nightlife. It stands out architecturally with its warehouse-chic interior and open fireplace – few Auckland venues feel this spacious and laid-back at the same time. Many guests rave about the outdoor deck with city views (even spotting the Sky Tower) – it’s rare to find a casual pizza-and-aperol setting with a skyline backdrop. Culturally, La Zeppa helped pioneer the “tapas bar” trend in Auckland, introducing share plates and social dining. Its owners emphasize that anywhere you sit, “you will receive great service, fantastic food, great wine, and an atmosphere you won't forget” , and reviews echo that friendly, vibrant vibe. Famous nights – like its summer carnival festivals, themed dinner mysteries, and monthly drink fests – have given the venue a reputation as more than a restaurant; it’s a party destination. Locals often mention La Zeppa in the same breath as Ponsonby’s hotspots, and it consistently ranks highly in Auckland restaurant guides for both food and atmosphere. In fact, performance artists and DJs gravitate here because of the sound system and layout – the venue is one of the few inner-city bars designed to smoothly transition from dinner service to a full dance party. In summary, what makes La Zeppa special is how it regularly transforms a laid-back dinner into a big night out: it’s a place where theatrical themed events happen, DJs play classic tunes late, and crowds of 20- and 30-somethings feel as comfortable as a couple enjoying a glass of wine. Few other Auckland venues combine high-quality Mediterranean cuisine with that sort of party energy .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main dining floor is at street level and generally wheelchair-friendly (wide open rooms and flat surfaces). The staff understand accessibility needs, though if you need a ramp or accessible restroom, it’s best to call ahead to confirm. (As with many bars of this size, the outdoor deck may have steps.)
What to Wear/Bring: Dress is smart-casual or hip-casual. You’ll see people in nice jeans, summer dresses or collared shirts – there’s no strict code. Because part of La Zeppa is outdoors, bring a light jacket or layers if you plan to sit on the deck evening. Always carry official photo ID if you plan to drink alcohol in the evening, as the bar will check IDs after 8pm (all guests drinking must be 18+).
Age Restrictions: The venue markets itself for adults (event listings say “suitable for ages: Adults” ). Children are allowed at earlier dining hours, but note that after certain hours it becomes 18+ only. There’s no family play area, so it’s mainly a young-adult crowd at night.
Parking and Transit: Arrive early if you need street parking, or use the Fanshawe St carpark (weekend flat $7.50 ). If using buses, ask for stops on Federal or Victoria St (near Victoria Park). Auckland’s “Link” buses have stops very close by.
Food and Drink: It’s wise to come hungry and ready to share plates. The cuisine is Mediterranean tapas-style, so dishes come out as they’re ready. Money-wise, La Zeppa encourages sharing, so ordering 2–3 dishes per 2 people is typical. The venue is fully licensed – no BYO – so all drinks must be purchased there (they have an impressive wine list and cocktail menu).
Common Mistakes: A few new visitors forget to book for popular nights; on busy evenings long lines can form, so reservations are recommended for dinner service after 7pm. Another tip: if you have a large group, call ahead – La Zeppa’s functions team can arrange long tables or even semi-private areas (with a minimum spend) . Finally, remember it’s first-come seating, except for booked events. Many restaurants in Auckland enforce “dinner only” reservations, but here you can relax and mingle. In short, arrive with good company, an open mind, and enjoy – La Zeppa’s staff and friendly atmosphere will guide you through a memorable night!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address and schedule of La Zeppa Kitchen and Bar?
La Zeppa is located at 33 Drake Street in Freemans Bay, Auckland . According to its site, it’s open daily from 12pm (“noon”) until late at night . It’s wise to double-check current hours on their official page or call ahead, since nights and events sometimes vary.
Does La Zeppa charge a cover or require tickets for entry?
For regular nights and dinner service, La Zeppa is just a restaurant/bar – there’s no cover charge and no entry ticket needed. You pay for whatever food and drinks you order. Only special events (e.g. themed dinners, wine classes) have tickets. Those event tickets are pre-sold (an example listed was a $130/pax wine masterclass ). Large public festivals the venue hosts (like their Summer Carnival) have sometimes been free entry with an age limit (e.g. free admission, 18+) .
How can I buy tickets or make a reservation for dining at La Zeppa?
To book a dinner table, you can call La Zeppa’s phone or use any contact form on their website. 100% walk-ins are also often allowed if space permits, especially outside peak event hours. For special ticketed events, announcements and links are typically posted on La Zeppa’s website or local event sites. There is no on-site box office; tickets and reservations are handled by email/phone or via authorized online ticket sellers. It’s a good idea to book ahead for busy weekends or themed nights, since those fill up fast.
What is the maximum capacity of La Zeppa?
La Zeppa advertises itself as capable of hosting anywhere from 10 up to about 600 people , depending on how it’s booked. This refers to the whole venue at full capacity. In normal operation seating might only fill part of that (for example, a dinner service or bar crowd). But for private functions or standing events they can open up the entire space.
Are children welcome, or is it strictly adults only?
La Zeppa is primarily an adult-oriented venue. The official listing even notes it’s “suitable for ages: Adults” . Families can dine there early in the evening, but after around 11pm the venue operates as an 18+ venue under liquor license laws. There’s no kids’ menu or play area, so it’s mostly popular with friends and couples. No pets are allowed inside.
What kind of cuisine does La Zeppa serve?
La Zeppa is best known for its Mediterranean and Spanish-influenced menu . Expect tapas-style sharing plates (seafood, chorizo, chevapcsici, etc.), wood-fired pizzas or platters. There are also larger entrée salads and mains. Dessert is Italian-influenced (tiramisu, cannoli). It’s essentially a tapas bar format – order multiple small plates per person to share. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are usually available, though the focus is on classic Euro flavors. People often pair dishes with wine, cocktails or Aperitivo spritzes.
What are the parking options near La Zeppa?
The closest public parking is the Fanshawe Street car park (behind Victoria Park). On weekends it has a $7.50 flat rate . If that is full, metered street parking is available on surrounding streets (bring coins or a parking app). Keep in mind street parks fill early on popular nights. Some taxi and rideshare drop-off/pick-up can be done on Drake Street or Federal Street directly outside the village. Always check parking signs in case of time limits.
How do I get to La Zeppa using public transport?
City buses run frequently on Victoria Street West and Federal Street, which are just a few minutes’ walk from Drake St. You can use Auckland Transport apps or google maps to find routes to Victoria Park or Federal St stops. The free inner-city “Link” buses stop near Federal St by Victoria Park. If coming by train, the closest stations are Britomart or Aotea (each about a 10-15 minute walk). There is no direct train line to Freemans Bay itself. One tip: on weekends and public holidays, children under 15 ride free on AT buses and trains , which could save families a trip fare.
Is La Zeppa wheelchair accessible?
The main dining and bar areas of La Zeppa are on street level and are generally wheelchair-friendly (open floor plan, no narrow stairs at the entrance). The owners do ensure ADA-style access: for example, seating is not on a raised platform out of reach. One restroom is likely to be wheelchair-accessible (as per NZ regulations). The outdoor sundeck may have a step or two, so ask staff if you need a ramp. If mobility is a concern, it’s always best to call ahead and confirm; nonetheless, it’s regarded as one of the more accessible older venues in the inner city.
Are there age or dress code restrictions at La Zeppa?
La Zeppa does not enforce a strict dress code, but the atmosphere is smartcasual. Guests usually arrive in neat denim or summer attire, not in sportswear or beachwear. High heels are fine, but remember part of the venue is outdoors. As for age, do bring photo ID if you’re over 18 – it becomes an 18+ space in the evenings. Otherwise, absolutely no costume or special attire is required.
Can I hold a private event or party at La Zeppa?
Yes. According to La Zeppa’s event info, they offer private and semi-private spaces for large bookings. The venue can be sectioned into exclusive areas (for example, reserving the rooftoop deck or downstairs hall) at a minimum spend . They have a dedicated functions team to help plan menus, music and décor. Their site notes they can tailor setups for 10–600 people , so it’s ideal for birthdays, weddings or corporate parties. You should contact them well in advance to arrange details and any deposit.
What is La Zeppa’s cancellation or refund policy?
Since La Zeppa is a restaurant, standard cancellations for dinner reservations are usually flexible (just notify via phone/email). For ticketed events, each event promoter might have their own refund rules (often no-refund within a few days of the event). If you book via La Zeppa directly for a private function, they will set their policy with you. It’s best to clarify cancellation terms at the time of the reservation or ticket purchase.
What should I do if I arrive late for a reservation or event?
Call La Zeppa as soon as possible if you're going to be late. For standard dinner bookings, they usually hold your table briefly (often 10–15 minutes) but will release it if significantly delayed. For timed events (tasting dinners, shows), late entry rules vary – some may admit late comers quietly, others might not. The staff are generally accommodating, but arriving on time is safest. If you miss a scheduled seated dinner, they may not guarantee service. Outside of special events, late dinner arrivals usually receive full service as long as the kitchen is still open.
Does La Zeppa have outdoor seating and how is it affected by weather?
Yes, La Zeppa’s sundeck is an outdoor area where many customers love to sit on sunny days. However, it is open-air, so it closes in heavy rain or storms (they’ll seat you inside instead). It can also get chilly in winter evenings, so staff may offer heaters if needed. Bring a jacket if you plan to use the deck on a cool night. In general, in fine weather it’s a highlight (great city views and ambience); in bad weather it’s simply not used and you dine indoors.
