Simon & Lee

When you’re looking for big Korean flavours and solid staples in Auckland, look no further than Simon & Lee.

Located in the semi-industrial backstreets of Parnell, Simon & Lee occupies a corner spot that exudes a stylish yet unshowy charm. The floor to ceiling glass exterior floods the space with natural light and the tables outside allow the energy to gently roll out of the door and onto the streets. The ubiquitous checkerboard motif injects colour and fun, from the window decals to the napkins at your table. 

The menu is fluent in everything from early morning breakfast to deliciously late lunch. Dishes cartwheel through classics and Korean fusion creations seamlessly. Their twist on bulgogi beef is unmissable. Served with spaghetti and egg yolk, this plate can be devoured in mere moments (your friends may even forget you’re there). A spattering of bao buns, daily dumplings and waffle fries will round out any mealtime, any time of day.  

Simon & Lee also brings a whole new meaning to Korean fried chicken (K.F.C). Here you can order your chicken danger-spicy, and it ain’t for the faint-hearted. They even provide gloves to avoid your spicy mittens touching other bodily parts. Opting for safe-spicy may save your tomorrow, you’ve been warned. But for those who love fire, step forward and revel. 

A small but perfectly formed wine and beer list accompanies the food, as well as the option to add a well-executed coffee, cold brew or smoothie. Whatever way you cut it, Simon & Lee have all the bases covered.