Where to Wine and Dine on Waiheke

Waiheke Island is the place to be in the summer months. I have been fortunate enough to spend a fair few weekends over on the island in the last six months and have compiled my favourite places to eat and drink.

ABSOLUTE MUST VISITS

Mudbrick

The most beautiful spot on Waiheke for a wine or cocktail (or both!) The pornstar martinis are absolutely divine, the staff are so friendly and the outlook makes you feel like you're somewhere in Europe. They have plenty of seating in the bistro, and an outdoor rooftype style area with lots of beanbags and umbrellas too. If I only had a day on Waiheke this is where I would spend it.

Cafe Fenice

The best spot on Waiheke for brunch or lunch. Most cafes on Waiheke are actually super average, but Cafe Fenice is so consistent and so good. Their brunch menu is yum, and their pizzas are divine. Grab a table outside the front and watch the bustle of Waiheke go by. I recommend the pizzas in particular.

Man O War

A long way away from civilisation lies Man O War, accessible by car, boat or their mini bus this spot is simply idyllic. The food is absolutely delicious, the outlook is beautiful and the style of eating is what I love the most; lots of meat and vegetables and things suitable for sharing. The wine is also delicious.

Oyster Inn

The best spot for a drink and nibbles in Oneroa without a doubt. Get a heavenly salted caramel espresso martini, some fries and sit on the outdoor balcony. They also do super good food, with a menu that has something for everyone.

OTHER PLACES WORTH A VISIT

Tantalus

For food that is literally art head to Tantalus. It's expensive, at a minimum of $70 pp, but the food is such high quality and the experience is luxurious. Wine is super good but wouldn't recommend the cider or beer.

Found

Found serves up some really good food in Surfdale, the cafe scene on Waiheke is unfortunately pretty average, but this cafe hits the nail on the head. They have a super big brunch menu, serve great coffee and have a cafo doggo; Milly, who loves all the pats. The service is a little disorganised but it's Waiheke, island time applies.

Island Gelato

Seriously legitimate gelato served out of a shipping container in Oneroa Village. Amazing flavours. Try the pistachio for something different and divine.

Island Coffee

The O.G. coffee shop on Waiheke located in Ostend. Blimmin good coffee, a great place to sit and read the local news, have a chat, and listen to the harmonious hum of the coffee being roasted right in front of you.

Arcadia

This Palm Beach cafe serves up the basics, at a good price and with lovely service. It isn't a game changer, but the food is pretty good if you find yourself down this end of the island.

Wild on Waiheke

I went here for a cocktail and some lunch and it! Cocktails aren't the best but the pizza was decent and the service is good. The bonus is that there are lots of activities to get involved in like archery and clay bird shooting, if you're looking for something less intense then there are also californian sandbags to play outside on the lawn.

Hope you enjoy these spots! Let me know if you have any other favourite places to eat or drink on the island.