When you get the chance to try IKEA’s famous meatballs, you don’t turn it down. So I headed to the flagship store in Auckland to see what all the hype is about ahead of the big opening this Thursday. 

A bite instantly took me back to the flat dinners spent cramming frozen burgers into a pan and topping them each with a square of plastic cheese. A good flavour, classic, but nothing overly mindblowing. The cream sauce adds moisture, but there’s not much else it can do, being extremely mild. IKEA does win points for transparency - its meatball recipe is available online, so you may be able to skip the queues come opening day.

What really blew my mind was the plant-based equivalent, aptly named ‘Plant-Balls’. I found them to be more flavorful than the meatballs, while the texture was similar, if not better. I was also served a dollop of cranberry sauce that was nice on its own, but a bit of a culture shock when paired with both variations. Still, I’m coming to terms with the fact that I’ll be returning for the veggie substitute.

Check out our taste-test in the video below:

I didn’t get to try the plant-based hot dogs near the checkout,  but they’re being sold for $1.50, and you can pay an extra 50 cents for meat. The store will also be the first in the world to serve pavlova - has anyone checked on Australia recently?

That won't be the only dessert, as a soft and gooey cinnamon bun is up for grabs. I gave one a taste and found the outside to be a bit dry, but it turns out the gold was in the centre. If in doubt, you can wash it down with a variety of drinks - coffee, tea, or if you’re feeling adventurous, some sparkling lingonberry. 

If meatballs aren't your thing, there's hoki fish and chips, and the lamb pie. If they are, you can buy a kilo to take home. In fact, plenty of IKEA's food can be bought frozen or chilled to heat up later - you'll find it near the hot dogs. 

The store is prepared for a major influx of foodies and shoppers alike, with 426 seats in the Swedish Restaurant. If all else fails, there’s plenty more to be found flat-packed in the warehouse (some assembly required). 

IKEA's first NZ store in Sylvia Park opens at 11 am on Thursday. For everything you need to know about opening day and the new store, click here.