Parnell's eating places split into two camps; established restaurants with the accent on fine dining, and trendier, cheaper places catering to younger devotees, and backpackers from the nearby hostels.

Antoine's , 333 Parnell Rd (tel 09/307 9875). Fancy French dining consistently rated among the best in Auckland and much favoured by Parnell and Remuera blue bloods. It's all very professionally, if somewhat conservatively, done. Try top-quality lamb and salmon dishes, at top-notch prices.

Chocolate Café , 323 Parnell Rd. Compact chocolate emporium selling handmade choccies and a range of chocolate (and coffee) drinks. Tables inside and out, and it stays open late for that post-dinner dessert.

Iguaçu , 269 Parnell Rd (tel 09/358 4804). Flashy conservatory-style brasserie frequented by a young corporate crowd and wannabes, but worth a look in for a light meal or just a glass of wine. Sunday lunchtime jazz. Licensed.

Java Room , 317 Parnell Rd (tel 09/366 1606). Intimate restaurant serving loosely Indonesian-influenced dishes but stretching to dim sum, spicy fish cakes, Szechwan prawns and whole snapper in sambal. Licensed & BYO.

The Other Side , 320 Parnell Rd. Bright, breezy and reasonably priced café serving good breakfasts and a typical range of Kiwi café food with German additions like bratwurst and schnitzel.

Pandoro , 427 Parnell Rd. Bakery specializing in Italian-style loaves, stuffed pizza bread - and chocolate brownies.

Portofino , 156 Parnell Rd (tel 09/373 3740). Basic but reliable trattoria without the pretensions of much of this street, but with pasta and pizza favourites all exceptionally well done. Licensed & BYO.

Strawberry Alarm Clock , 119 Parnell Rd. Low-key café popular with Parnell's bright young things and perfect for breakfasts, a snack, or just hanging out over good coffee either inside or out in the rear courtyard.

Toto , 259 Parnell Rd. Smart and minuscule café with great coffee and a stack of good magazines for browsing.