Bistro Dining on a Budget in Auckland with First Table

As a passionate food enthusiast and reviewer, I am always on the lookout for unique dining experiences that tantalize my taste buds and leave me with unforgettable memories. Recently, I had the pleasure of discovering First Table, a revolutionary platform that has changed the way I dine out. Today, I am excited to share my culinary adventures with First Table, a food lover’s dream come true!

Oysters at Ora Bistro, Manukau, Auckland

What is First Table?

First Table is a dining service like no other. It offers a win-win solution for both diners and restaurants. The concept is simple yet brilliant – diners can book the “first table” and now even the last table at participating restaurants and enjoy a significant discount, typically 50% off the food bill for two to four diners. In return, restaurants benefit by filling their empty tables during off-peak hours, creating a bustling atmosphere and attracting new customers.

A Gastronomic Journey Begins

Using First Table is a breeze. I signed up for a free account on their website and found an extensive list of participating restaurants in my city. The variety of cuisines and dining styles available was impressive, ranging from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments.

One of the best aspects of First Table is the element of surprise. I felt like a culinary explorer, stepping into new dining venues with the anticipation of discovering hidden gems. Each time I booked a First Table, I was rewarded with exciting new flavors and experiences.

Hidden Gems Unearthed

One of my favorite first table destinations in Auckland is One Tree Grill. Located opposite Cornwall Park in Epsom. It’s fine dining and you really get to enjoy the experience of fine dining without the hefty price tag. You receive 50% off on food so can have an incredible 3 course meal for around $60 per person. The atmosphere is incredible and the complimentary bread and butter you receive is mouth watering.

Some Stunning Options from One Tree Grill

Another option further away from Central Auckland is Ora Bistro in Manukau. It’s somewhere I never would have known about or gone to had we not had First Table and although I felt the portions were a little small, all our meals were delicious and well prepared. They were much better than I was expecting. It’s worth noting I was consumed by a raging hunger at the time so my comment on portion size may not be an accurate concern. We were able tog et 3 courses and a drink for $60 per person with food being 50% off. I ordered the oysters, eye fillet and the creme brûlée so did not hold back!

An Assortment of Dishes from Ora Bistro

There is such a wide range of cuisines, not all of them fine dining! One of my personal favourites in the past was a Yakitori Bar in Auckland CBD where we ordered what seemed like endless skewers and walked out paying about $70 for 2 people. So I really recommend getting onto First Table and giving it a try… You never know what you’ll find!

Top Tips for a Fulfilling First Table Experience

  1. Plan Ahead: Popular restaurants tend to get booked quickly, so it’s advisable to plan your dining adventures in advance.
  2. Try New Cuisines: First Table is an excellent opportunity to step outside your culinary comfort zone and savor new and exciting flavors.
  3. Embrace Off-Peak Dining: Embrace the joy of dining during off-peak hours, as it allows you to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and attentive service.

Fine Dining on a Budget

Dining out with First Table has truly been a game-changer for my food journey. The platform has allowed me to explore a diverse array of restaurants, indulge in delectable dishes, and all at a wallet friendly price. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone looking to elevate their dining experiences, First Table offers a unique and rewarding way to discover the vibrant world of culinary delights. So, the next time you’re planning a dining adventure, don’t forget to reserve that coveted “first table” and prepare yourself for an extraordinary culinary escapade!

DISCLAIMER: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you use an affiliate link to purchase an item I will receive commission from the purchase and this helps fund my blog hosting and keeps my content freely available. You will not be charged any additional fees for using the affiliate links and in some cases may actually receive a discount depending on the offer available.

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