Whangarei is the country’s most northern city, located in the Northland region New Zealand. Whangarei, despite being somewhat remote from the rest, is as cosmopolitan and vibrant as any city in New Zealand. It boasts a restaurant scene that rivals Auckland and Wellington.
Serenity Cafe
Simple food is fine when done well. It is even better when the price is as fair as Serenity Cafe’s food. Quality is the main focus when it comes to ingredients. The food does not need to be fancy. It is centrally located, with views of the Clock Museum, flower-covered sundial, and other attractions. It also has lots of outdoor seating, so everyone can take in the beautiful Northland weather! Why is it always full? It’s always good.
Suk Jai Thai Restaurant
Suk Jai Thai Restaurant serves authentic Thai food, including hot soups and stir-fries. Sukjai Thai excels with seafood and duck. It’s a local favorite, so it’s worth calling ahead and booking a table, even if you plan to visit on a weekday night.
Topsail
The Topsail dining room is perched at the tip of a peninsula and offers panoramic views of Whangarei Harbour. These dishes are exquisitely presented and use seasonal in best restaurants in Whangarei, local ingredients. It creates a relaxed and modern dining experience. Although the menu changes frequently, it tends to focus on fresh seafood and game. It is a popular choice with both locals and tourists.
Parua Bay Tavern
Parua Bay Tavern, a gastropub on Whangarei’s eastern side, is right next to the water. The decor is very traditional, featuring old photos and newspaper clippings along the walls. There’s also a covered deck outside and a jetty which extends out to the water. On a good day you might spot dolphins orcas in the harbour. You can find traditional pub food, including burgers and pizzas made from stone.
Mean’s Vietnamese Cafe
Mean’s Vietnamese Café is just down the street from another favorite, The Split Restaurant and bar. It’s not a bad thing, except that you use the word “mean” in the local dialect, which means awesome or epic. This is the type of healthy, refreshing cuisine you want but rarely find in a restaurant. If you’re looking for Whangarei-style seafood, you can try the mussels. But if your taste buds crave a little more, you should go for the Pho. This is guilt-free goodness.
