Get involved with Restaurant Month 2026 - submissions closing soon

Restaurant Month returns from 1 to 31 August 2026, and menu submissions are open until 5 pm Monday, 25 May, 2026

Now in its 16th year, Restaurant Month is a much-anticipated celebration of Auckland’s city centre dining scene. It continues to help restaurants reach new audiences, boost visibility and drive meaningful business results throughout August. 

Restaurant Month is your opportunity to showcase the creativity, talent and personality that make your restaurant distinctive. It’s a chance to attract new diners, re-engage regulars and put your best dishes in front of a city‑wide audience. 

Results for Restaurant Month 2025 included:

Average transaction value $98.89,+2% compared to the programme in 2024
Domestic visitor spend +11% and international spend +7% compared to Restaurant Month 2024
84% of Restaurant Month 2025 participants said it was “successful for their business” with one saying: "This year’s Restaurant Month was so far the most successful one…1400+ booked and dozens of walk-ins.”

New for 2026:

This year, you have complete creative freedom. There are no set themes or formats, giving you the flexibility to design a Restaurant Month menu that reflects what you do best, from your food and your team to the dining experience that keeps customers coming back. 

The Heart of the City team is here to support the process, with hands-on guidance available if you’d like a sounding board as you bring your menu to life. 

Submit your Restaurant Month 2026 menu

How to submit your menu 

To take part, simply submit your special Restaurant Month menu using the registration link. 

Menu criteria 

• You must be a restaurant or bar with sit down or table service located within the Heart of the City boundary 
• Menus must be priced at $30, $45, or $55+ per person 
• Menus must be created specifically for Restaurant Month 
• A minimum of two courses is required 
• Menus must be available on the days you are open for the full period, 1 to 31 August 
• If you are open for dinner, please submit your dinner menu first. Lunch menus are optional 
• Please include any high-resolution dish images with your submission, if available. 

Key dates 

5pm, Monday 25 May 2026: Menu submissions close 

Early July 2026: Restaurant Month campaign launches, and listings go live 

1 to 31 August 2026: Restaurant Month runs 

Promotion 

Restaurant Month is a signature Heart of the City campaign. Approved menus will be featured on the Heart of the City website and may also be promoted across social media and wider campaign activity. 

Submit your menu and be part of Restaurant Month 2026 

We’d love for you to get involved!