Hmm, food is decently good. Can’t compare to Italy but it’s a great hang out spots with friends. I like their Pizza more than their pastas. I tried a wide range of food with friends. Good atmosphere too.
Overview
If you're looking for a vibrant spot with a relaxed atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes, Elmo's on Ponsonby Road is the place to be. Nestled at 151 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland, Elmo's is a welcoming haven that has become a local favorite for anyone craving delicious food paired with great vibes.
Walking into Elmo's, you're immediately met with an inviting, casual ambiance. The modern decor strikes a perfect balance between chic and comfortable, making it an ideal location for both intimate meals and lively gatherings. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a more leisurely dinner, the atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.
The menu at Elmo's is a true testament to the quality of New Zealand’s diverse food scene. Featuring a mix of classic favorites and creative dishes, there’s something for everyone. If you’re a fan of fresh, vibrant flavors, you’ll be in for a treat. One standout dish is the signature "Elmo’s Burger" - a perfectly grilled beef patty topped with cheddar, crispy bacon, and tangy house-made aioli. It’s a fan favorite, and it’s not hard to see why. The burger is juicy, flavorful, and satisfying, hitting all the right notes.
For those looking for something lighter, the menu also offers a variety of fresh salads, such as the roasted pumpkin and feta salad, which brings together the earthiness of pumpkin with the tanginess of feta and a hint of sweetness from a balsamic glaze. It’s the perfect option for a sunny afternoon when you want something refreshing yet fulfilling.
But it’s not just the food that keeps people coming back to Elmo's. The drinks menu also impresses, with an extensive list of craft beers, cocktails, and wines. Whether you’re in the mood for a tangy gin and tonic or a glass of local wine to pair with your meal, the staff is always happy to offer recommendations based on your preferences.
The service at Elmo’s is another highlight. The staff is attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, always ready to make suggestions or accommodate any special requests. They ensure that every guest feels right at home, which adds to the overall positive experience.
Elmo’s also thrives in creating a sense of community. It’s not just a place to eat but a social hub for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re dropping by for brunch on the weekend or enjoying an evening out with friends, you’ll find a lively, welcoming crowd. There’s always something happening, whether it’s a live music session or just the buzz of happy diners enjoying good food and even better company.
What makes Elmo’s truly stand out is its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many of the dishes incorporate seasonal produce, supporting local farmers and ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. For instance, their seasonal vegetable dishes change regularly, giving diners a taste of what’s fresh and in season, making each visit a new experience.
For dessert, Elmo's offers a selection of mouthwatering sweets that will leave you craving more. The chocolate fondant, with its rich, gooey center, is the perfect end to any meal. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a crowd-pleaser that consistently delivers.
With its prime location in the heart of Ponsonby, Elmo’s also serves as a great spot to stop by after a day of exploring the vibrant neighborhood. Whether you’ve spent the day shopping or simply strolling through Ponsonby, the diner’s relaxed vibe and delicious food are the perfect way to unwind.
Local reviews consistently praise Elmo’s for its exceptional food, welcoming service, and overall enjoyable atmosphere. It’s a place where you can count on a satisfying meal, a friendly vibe, and an experience that feels genuine and unpretentious. The positive feedback from both regulars and newcomers alike speaks volumes about the quality of this establishment.
If you haven’t yet experienced Elmo's, it’s definitely worth a visit. From the delicious menu to the excellent service, this diner is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty burger or a refreshing salad, you’ll find something to suit your taste. So, the next time you’re in Ponsonby, make sure to stop by 151 Ponsonby Road and treat yourself to a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ No-contact delivery âś“ Delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Great beer selection âś“ Great cocktails âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great wine list âś“ Live musicPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Happy-hour drinks âś“ Happy-hour food âś“ Late-night food âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Counter service âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ TrendyCrowd
âś“ Groups âś“ LGBTQ+ friendly âś“ Tourists âś“ Transgender safe spacePlanning
âś“ Brunch reservations recommended âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ High chairsParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 698 reviews
Stopped in for lunch at Elmo’s today and had pizzas, cocktails, and beers……everything was excellent. Hands down, some of the best pizzas I’ve ever had! The staff were attentive and genuinely friendly, and nothing felt like too much trouble, even when I asked for a few menu variations. Great atmosphere in a central Ponsonby location, with both indoor and outdoor seating, making it the perfect spot to eat and watch the world go by. We’ll definitely be back. Thanks!
Not our first time at Elmos, and once again it didn’t disappoint. We were lucky enough to catch the last round of truffle season ,the dishes were absolutely amazing. The service was 5-star, attentive and friendly throughout. The environment is cozy, surrounded by beautiful paintings and stylish décor.
This restaurant offers an excellent selection of pizzas and pastas. I thoroughly enjoyed. I visited with my partner and a friend, and we chose to sit at a high table. For starters, we ordered a burrata, followed by two pizzas and a pasta dish for dinner. They even provided a stand to hold the pizzas, making them more accessible. The highlight was their signature truffle pizza, which we particularly loved. All the dishes were delicious, well-balanced in flavour, and generously portioned and perfect for the three of us. The place was bustling with people, and finding an empty table would have been challenging without our prior booking. The lively atmosphere matched the festive, end-of-year vibe perfectly. Although the bar looked magnificent, we didn’t try the alcoholic drinks as we drove, will be next time. Overall, a highly recommended spot for a vibrant dining experience!
Elmo’s Pizza Bag has such an awesome and friendly vibe! The selection of pizzas is amazing, and even though the place was absolutely packed, the staff still managed to get us seated without a reservation. They were busy but still welcoming and helpful, which made the experience even better. Can’t wait to come back and try another one of their pizzas!
We made a reservation for six people in the evening. The place was a bit noisy, so it was hard to have a conversation, but the pizza was delicious. Each of us ordered one pizza.