You’ve probably driven past that busy corner in Epsom a hundred times, right where Manukau Road meets Empire. If you haven't stopped at Little Jimmy restaurant Auckland, you're honestly missing out on one of the few places in the city that actually walks the "local" talk.
Most restaurants claim to use local produce, but these guys take it to another level. We're talking about a drinks list that is 100% New Zealand. No imported French champagne or Italian Peroni here. It’s all Kiwi, all the time.
What exactly is the vibe at Little Jimmy?
It’s the "little brother" to One Tree Grill, which is just up the road. But while One Tree Grill is where you go for a fancy anniversary, Little Jimmy is where you go when you want to wear jeans and eat food that makes you feel good.
The space itself is kinda industrial but warm. Think big windows, high ceilings, and some pretty cool graffiti by Ross Lewis. You’ll see a fat man fishing from a whale’s back on the wall, which tells you everything you need to know about the attitude here—it’s quality, but it doesn't take itself too seriously.
One thing I love? The cutlery has spanner handles. It’s a small detail, but it makes the place feel grounded.
The "Little Jimmy" philosophy (and why it matters)
The restaurant is named after the "little guy." Basically, the owners, Guy and Sarah Malyon, wanted a spot that champions smaller New Zealand producers.
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- The Garden: Some of the greens come from their own biodynamic garden.
- The Drinks: Every beer, wine, and spirit is from NZ.
- The Food: They focus on fresh, uncomplicated ingredients.
Ordering at Little Jimmy restaurant Auckland: What’s actually good?
Look, the menu changes with the seasons, but there are some staples that locals would probably riot over if they disappeared.
The curly fries with chipotle aioli are basically a requirement. They’re $12 and honestly, the aioli is so good it's almost drinkable. If you're there for dinner, the pork belly with swede puree and apple is usually a winner. It’s got that perfect balance of salty, fatty, and sweet.
The sharing menu is where it's at
If you’re with a group, don't just order your own main. The "Smaller Plates" section is built for grazing.
- Trevally Ceviche: Fresh, zesty, and served with coconut and lime.
- Manuka Smoked Fish Pate: Served with sourdough. It’s smoky and rich.
- Pork Croquettes: These come with a pickled mustard that cuts right through the richness.
- Lamb Ribs: They usually have a bit of a chilli kick.
They also do wood-fired pizzas. The Local Pepperoni with black olives and roasted garlic is a solid choice if you just want something reliable. Prices for pizzas usually sit around the $29 to $35 mark.
The legendary Akaroa Salmon
If the Akaroa Salmon is on the menu, order it. Back when the place first opened, food critics like Jesse Mulligan were calling it the "dish of the year." It’s lightly cured, sliced thin, and often served with something crunchy like kohlrabi. It’s basically the best version of sashimi you'll find in a bistro setting.
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Don't skip the liquid sugar
Since the drinks are all Kiwi, you get to try things you won't see at every other bar.
Try the Little Jimmy Sodas. The blueberry or passionfruit ones are amazing. If you’re looking for something stronger, they have a great selection of NZ gins like Blue Duck from Auckland or Karven from Matakana.
For dessert, the white chocolate cheesecake with passionfruit sorbet is a fan favorite. It’s not too heavy, which is great because by the time you get to dessert at Little Jimmy, you’re usually pretty stuffed.
Practical stuff: What you need to know before you go
Little Jimmy is located at 557 Manukau Road, Epsom. It’s right on the corner, so you can’t miss it.
The Hours:
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- Monday - Tuesday: 11:30 am – 9:00 pm
- Wednesday - Saturday: 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
- Sunday: 11:30 am – 9:00 pm
Parking can be a bit of a nightmare on Manukau Road during peak hours, so your best bet is usually to find a spot on Empire Road or one of the other side streets.
Is it kid-friendly?
Actually, yeah. They have a specific kids' menu for those aged 12 and under. You can get things like meatballs with spaghetti, mini pizzas, or a mini Wakanui steak for around $10 to $16. It’s a great spot for an early family dinner before the bar crowd starts to settle in for the night.
What most people get wrong
People often think Little Jimmy is just a cafe because of the location and the name. It’s not. While they do a great brunch on the weekends (try the buttermilk waffles), it really comes alive as a bistro and bar in the evenings.
Also, a quick heads up: there's a 2% surcharge for credit cards and paywave. It's common in NZ these days, but still good to know so you're not surprised when the bill comes.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're planning a visit to Little Jimmy restaurant Auckland, here is the best way to do it:
- Book a "First Table": If you're an early bird, check the First Table website. You can often get 50% off food for the first booking of the night.
- Go for the "Trust the Chef" Menu: If you can't decide, let them choose. It’s usually around $70-$80 per person and gives you a massive spread of the best seasonal dishes.
- Check the Blackboard: They often have daily specials that aren't on the printed menu, especially for fresh seafood.
- Pair with a Walk: Since you're in Epsom, it's a 10-minute walk to Cornwall Park. Do the climb up Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill) first, then head to Little Jimmy to earn those curly fries.