Must-see restaurants in Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula

  • Down Thyme

    Coromandel Peninsula

    On the semirural outskirts of Waihi town, Down Thyme successfully combines European and Turkish flavours. Sit on the outdoor deck and enjoy lamb shish…

  • Redoubt Bar & Eatery

    Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula

    A relaxed place to eat or drink, with cheap but potent cocktails, classic old photos of Te Awamutu sports teams on the walls, and a decent menu stretching…

  • Ti-Tree Cafe & Wine Bar

    Coromandel Peninsula

    Housed in a cute little wooden building with punga-shaded outdoor seating, Ti-Tree serves fair-trade organic coffee, cooked breakfasts and delicious fruit…

  • Squids

    Coromandel Peninsula

    On a corner facing the harbour, this informal restaurant offers good-value seafood meals in a prime location. Steamed mussels, smoked seafood platters and…

  • Bosco Cafe

    Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula

    This excellent industrial-chic cafe offers great coffee and tempting food – try the bacon-wrapped meatloaf with greens or the tasty chicken wraps. The…

  • Umu

    Coromandel Peninsula

    Classy cafe fare including pizza, counter food (tarts and quiches around $7), superb coffee and tummy-taming breakfasts. Craft beer from Hamilton's Good…

  • Coromandel Smoking Co

    Coromandel Peninsula

    Smoked fish and seafood for cooking and snacking. Also available is excellent Coromandel artisan cheese and the fiery Uncle Dunkle's chilli sauce made…

  • Soul Burger

    Coromandel Peninsula

    Serving audacious burgers with names like Soul Blues Brother and Vegan Vibe, this hip corner joint is also licensed so you can have an ice-cold beer with…

  • L&P Cafe, Bar & Brasserie

    Coromandel Peninsula

    Order everything from L&P-battered onion rings and fish and chips through to L&P-braised pork belly. Leave room for dessert of L&P ice cream. Of course.

  • Nakontong

    Coromandel Peninsula

    Although the bright lighting may not induce romance, the tangy Thai dishes will provide a warm glow at this long-established and popular local eatery.

  • Thames Organic Shop

    Coromandel Peninsula

    A good source of planet-friendly vegetables, nuts, bread, eggs and meat. Good for vegan travellers.

  • Countdown

    Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula

    There’s no supermarket at Waitomo Caves, so stock up en route to the caves in Otorohanga.

  • New World

    Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula

    Waitomo-bound self-caterers should stock up here.

  • Sugoi Sushi

    Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula

    Offering a huge selection and exemplary service.

  • Pak'nSave

    Coromandel Peninsula

    Thames' best supermarket.

  • Rangiriri Hotel

    Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula

    Next to the Rangiriri Heritage Centre is the historic Rangiriri Hotel, a cheery spot for lunch or a beer.