Auckland-based burger restaurant Fat Puku’s recently opened a new store in the CBD’s Wynyard Quarter area.
Owner Veterarii Thomas said he and his business partner have always been passionate about creating memorable experiences for people.
Whether through food, atmosphere, or service, their journey into the culinary world started with a love for burgers and a desire to bring something fresh and exciting to the community.
Fat Puku’s combined this love for smash burgers with the vibes of old-school hip hop and the nostalgia of the 80s and 90s.
“The idea was to create a place where people could come together, enjoy mouth-watering burgers, and relive some of that 90s magic,” said Thomas.
“We wanted to deliver more than just a meal—to offer an experience that resonated with our guests on multiple levels, from the food to the atmosphere.”
The menu was inspired by the classic American burger joints but with a twist—juicy, flavourful patties smashed to perfection, topped with high-quality ingredients, and served in a nostalgic and fresh way. It features everything from classic burgers to innovative creations that push the boundaries of what a burger can be.
A selection of sides and shakes also perfectly complement the mains. According to Thomas, the standout dish is the chopped cheese, which has become a crowd favourite.
Although Thomas has limited experience in the culinary industry, his passion makes up for it as he leads the kitchen. Having spent a significant amount of time in the USA, his love for burgers turned into an obsession with the art of the smash burger.
When he moved to Australia, he missed those authentic, flavour-packed burgers and started experimenting in his kitchen while hosting UFC watch parties. He quickly realised that the key to a truly great burger was to use the freshest ingredients and strike the right balance of flavours and textures.
“What began as a way to fill a personal craving turned into a mission to share that same joy with others, eventually leading me to where I am today.”
Elements like music and graffiti have been deeply embedded in the brand and resonate with the food and experience. The influence of the 80s and 90s was a significant driver for everything from ingredient choices to the restaurant's overall vibe.
The fit-out took around five weeks from start to finish, but it was 14 months of site hunting and negotiating.
“We wanted to ensure every detail was perfect, from the layout to the decor, to ensure that the space truly reflected Fat Puku’s vibe but in a much smaller footprint than our flagship on Queen Street.”
The team at Mille Interiors understood the vision and helped bring it to life since the flagship location is 150 sqm, while the new Wynyard location is 60 sqm.
The concept for Fat Puku’s started brewing in 2018 to create something unique in the dining scene. It was a team effort from the start, with a clear vision of merging top-notch food with an unforgettable atmosphere. The pandemic became the catalyst that pushed them to take the burgers from the kitchen to the streets.
This team comprises ten passionate and dedicated individuals who play a vital role in ensuring guests have a fantastic experience when they walk through the doors.
“Our commitment to combining killer flavours with an unforgettable atmosphere sets Fat Puku's apart. We’re not just serving food but delivering a whole vibe. It’s about tapping into that sense of fun, creativity, and boldness that defined the era.”
Another focus for the restaurant has been on providing top-notch hospitality, ensuring every guest feels stoked to be there.
Thomas mentioned that one of the biggest challenges was finding the right location aligned with their vision. The duo wanted a space that suited the brand and connected with the community they wanted to serve. Choosing the right location was crucial since having a strong community vibe can make a real impact.
“It’s about balancing foot traffic, the right demographic, and a space that feels like a natural fit for what we want to offer. It’s not always easy, but when it clicks, it’s magic. There were hurdles along the way, but ultimately, finding a spot where we could make our mark was worth the effort.”
At the same time, opening the original Fat Puku’s and seeing it become a go-to spot for burger lovers has been a major highlight for Thomas. Another proud moment was when he started seeing regulars who were just as passionate about the brand.
“Building a team that shares the same vision and watching them deliver a fantastic experience day in and day out is also something I consider a significant achievement.”
Looking ahead, the goal is to continue growing Fat Puku’s brand, expanding to new locations while staying true to its uniqueness. Another aim has been to keep evolving the menu, introducing new flavours and concepts that excite guests.
“Ultimately, the goal is to create even more spaces where people can connect, enjoy great food, and feel that nostalgia. We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from our community,” added Thomas.
“It’s been a wild ride, and we’re stoked to keep pushing the envelope with what we do. Whether through new menu items, events, or simply maintaining the high standard of service we’re known for, we can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
