Where to Eat

Restaurants, Cafes and everything in between

You can find food for every taste in Paihia and Russell - from upmarket restaurants with fine wines to takeaways and ice-cream shops.

If we have family or friends coming to visit; the options below are always featured on the list of eateries they are given. Saying that, Paihia and Russell are very lucky to be home to so many great restaurants and cafes; that anywhere you choose to dine will be a great experience!

Please make sure you check the operating hours of each of these eateries, as they may have changed since we wrote this.

Morning Tea/Lunch - Paihia

Third Wheel Vending | Open Tuesday - Saturday 8am-2pm

This place is our weakness when we a needing a little pick me up during the day. It is hidden down an alleyway in the middle of Paihia (just look for the bikes pointing the way), and is home to awesome coffee, tasty homemade goods and funky art. We highly recommend their cinnamon scrolls - YUM! Find out More...  

Dinner - Paihia

Terra Restaurant | Open Wednesday - Sunday 5.30pm - 10pm

If you are looking for a memorable, high-dining experience Terra is the place for you. The restaurant is positioned with some of the best views of the Bay of Islands and puts a strong emphasis on showcasing some of the best ingredients Northland has to offer. The flavour pairing in each dish is always so well thought-out, and the presentation is art. Their current menu is served as a Degustation Menu that changes every few weeks, to match with what Northland produce is currently in season. 100% book on in and give this restaurant a try, you will not regret it! Find Out More...

Charlotte's Kitchen | Open 7 days 11.30am - 9pm

Located at the end of the Paihia wharf, this place is the perfect setting for a lunch/dinner on holiday - who doesn't want to dine right on the water when visiting the Bay of Islands?! Home to plenty of tasty food options - ranging from larger sharing plates (for those who have done a big day of the saddle) to smaller dishes, for those who are a little less hungry. Do not miss out on ordering a side of their Pomme Fritz - a delicious bowl of fries topped with Parmesan and truffle salt. Usually on a Friday or Saturday they have live, acoustic music from about 8pm, which always creates a fun atmosphere. Bookings are advised. Find Out More...

Tipsy Oyster | Open Tuesday - Sunday 1pm - 12am

Are you looking for a dinner option that is a little more laid-back but still equally as delicious food and character?  Tipsy Oyster is the place to go. The menu is full of fusion cuisine with flavours mainly from South East Asia, India and the Middle East; along with a huge range of tasty cocktails to pick from. Oysters, Burgers, Chicken Wings, Tapas and plenty of Main options, you will not leave this place hungry!  Find Out More...

Greens | Open Wednesday - Monday 11.30am - 2pm, 4.30pm - 10pm

Tasty, filling food, and friendly service can always be found at Green's Restaurant. Located on the Paihia Waterfront, you will find the two Green's Restaurants - one specialises in a Thai Menu and the other an Indian Menu. Dine in or takeaway they have you sorted. There is a reason why this place is busy night after night - they do an outstanding job, and locals and holiday-makers love going here. Find Out More... 

Fish and Chips Restaurant Options

If you are coming to the Bay of Islands and the sun is still out come dinner time, it is a necessity that you have Fish and Chips on the beach for at least one night. There is a number of Fish and Chip Restaurants to choose from, so pick the one closest to your beach picnic location and enjoy some fresh Northland fish.

- JFC Fish and Chips - located at Paihia Beach

- Oceans 68 Fish and Chips - located on the waterfront of the Paihia Township

- Ti Bay Takeaways - located at Ti Bay (beach around the bluff from Paihia township)

- Snapper Shack - located in Haruru Falls

Lunch - Russell

Omata Estate | Open only during Summer (September - April)

Omata Estate is a relaxed-style eatery with views overlooking the ocean - who doesn't enjoy a great glass of wine as you look out at some picture-perfect views? They have some great sharing platters, and wood fired pizzas that pair perfectly with your wine, along with plenty of lawn space for the kids to run around on. Omata Estate, always feels so relaxing and is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon when you are on holiday. They do provide shuttles to and from the Russell Passenger ferry (book in advance), otherwise they are about a 5 minute drive once you have taken the car ferry from Opua to Okiato.   Find Out More... 

Dinner - Russell

Duke of Marlborough | Open 7 days - 12pm - 8pm

Located right on the waterfront in Russell, serving up delectable delights for dinner (and lunch) the Duke of Marlborough Restaurant is at the heart of this historical hotel.  The menu showcases locally sourced seasonal produce, presenting a new take on classic favourites. Russell gets some amazing sunsets, and the Duke of Marlborough is front row for this end of day show from Mother Earth. Bookings are advised.  Find Out More... 

Hone's Garden | Open 7 days - 12pm - 8pm

A laid-back Beer Garden with incredible authentic Wood-Fired Pizza, is how we like to describe Hone's Garden. Set in the sub-tropical garden, it is a great location for a feed on a sunny, Summer's day. There are so many different Pizza's to try, along with other options for those not in the Pizza mood - we love the pulled pork tacos. But wait, don't forget the drink options - great selection of non-alcoholic beverages as well as local craft beers, and boutique NZ wines. Find Out More...