ABOUT US
Bar Magda is a hidden bar and restaurant just off Karangahape Road (K Road) in Auckland, tucked downstairs and away from the rush of the street. The kitchen focuses on modern Filipino cooking, showcasing the best seasonal New Zealand produce, while the bar serves thoughtful cocktails alongside a carefully curated wine list.
A unique spot in the K Road neighbourhood, that offers the best date night, intimate small groups and private dining. Bar Magda is a place to discover bold flavours, great drinks, and relaxed dining in the heart of the city.
5 star review for work drinks
“I booked Bar Magda last minute for a work drinks and the team were super accomodating and responsive. The vibe, location and team were amazing the event was an epic success, thanks Bar Magda team!!!”
— Sophie Brown, GoogleOUR STORY
Bar Magda was founded by now best friends, Carlo Buenaventura (Chef) and Matt Venables (Bar Man), as owner operaters we try to bring together a shared focus on thoughtful food, great drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Carlo’s cooking draws on his Filipino heritage and experience in some of the best New Zealand kitchens including a short stint in France, shaping a creative style of modern Filipino food built around local seasonal produce.
Behind the bar, Matt focuses on unique and balanced cocktails with a strong emphasis on old world spirits and liqueurs with a wine list designed to work alongside the menu, creating a place where food and drinks are given equal standing.
Since opening in June 2021, Bar Magda has been recognised as one of Auckland’s standout restaurants, named best new Restaurant by Denizen in 2022, Metro top 50 restaurants, NZ Viva top 50 restaurants, earning a hat in the Cuisine Good Food Awards for the past three consecutive years.
As well as Matt receiving Metro's bartender of the year in 2024. Bar Magda has also made waves internationally through mentions in Lonely planet and essentials restaurants in Auckland by Eater (USA).
5 star review for date night and catch up with friends
Bar Magda is easily my go-to choice for either date nights or catching up with friends whenever it’s my turn to choose a place. I know they’ll always agree because this place is amazing! The food is super super super delicious, the wine list is amazing, and the service is top-notch. I’m always excited to introduce and bring more people to this place because they always deliver! Thanks Carlo and Team always lovely seeing you guys.
— Fred, GoogleFeatured In
Eater Magazine USA
“Bar Magda is a bar and bistro where he cooks boundary-pushing food that references his Filipino heritage.”
38 essential restaurants in Tamaki Makaurau
Cuisine good food guide
“Bar Magda is making its mark on our culinary scene as the slick and super-professional team merges traditional flavours with local influences. “
1 hat 2023 (17/20), 2024 (17/20), 2025 (17.5/20)
Metro Magazine top 50 best restaurants
2022, 2023, 2024, 2025; Best Bartender Matt Venables 2024
“The magic of Magda lies in its sense of place.”
Guide NZ Herald Viva top 50 best restaurants
“An ambitious restaurant that really pushes the boundaries, which I have nothing but respect for.”
2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
Denizen hospo heroes
“Standing out among the exceptional new openings in Auckland over the last year is no mean feat. But it seems that Bar Magda, the cool underground bar and eatery”
Cathay Pacific
7 restaurant serving the best of New Zealand cuisine
“The set menus are a great way to sample the innovation and diversity of Buenaventura’s cooking, while Bar Magda’s well-curated wine list showcases interesting varietals and natural wines from smaller New Zealand vineyards.”