The 20 Best Restaurants in Northland

Set within a picturesque winery, Sage Restaurant offers refined contemporary cuisine highlighting local ingredients and carefully paired wines. Dishes such as crayfish risotto, venison, and elegant desserts are noted for their balanced flavors and thoughtful presentation. Attentive staff accommodate dietary needs and contribute to a polished yet welcoming dining experience.

The Cow Shed Pies offers hearty, farm-style dishes such as steak, pork, and chicken, prepared in a straightforward, satisfying way. Guests often pre-order mains, a practice that supports a more sustainable approach in the kitchen. The eclectic décor and surrounding property create a distinctive rural atmosphere, while the welcoming team provides attentive, down-to-earth service. A crumble with homegrown fruit frequently rounds out the meal.

Terra Restaurant offers a refined dining experience featuring artfully presented dishes and layered, inventive flavors. An Italian-inspired tasting menu sits alongside fresh local seafood, including delicately prepared oysters. Guests appreciate the gracious, well-informed service, a thoughtful wine selection with local options, and a setting with appealing views.

Omata Estate Vineyard & Kitchen combines a boutique winery experience with relaxed, vineyard-side dining and sweeping views across the bay. Guests enjoy wine tastings, including well-regarded estate varieties, alongside wood-fired pizzas and generous sharing platters featuring regional produce. Attentive, professional service and the scenic ridgeline setting create a leisurely atmosphere for lingering lunches.

Boatshed Cafe offers a relaxed waterside setting for breakfast and lunch, with views over the water and passing ferries. The menu focuses on satisfying café classics, from hearty cooked breakfasts and granola to sandwiches and fresh salads. Well-made coffee and hot chocolate are frequently praised. Attentive staff and the option of outdoor terrace seating or cozy indoor tables, including a connected gift shop area, create a welcoming experience.

Parua Bay Tavern offers casual tavern-style dining with expansive waterfront views toward Whangārei Heads. The menu features well-prepared favorites such as pizzas, grilled meats, and fresh salads, with gluten-free options available. Multiple indoor and outdoor seating areas create a relaxed setting suited to both families and smaller groups. Friendly, efficient service and a well-stocked bar complete the experience.

Hone's Garden offers casual dining with freshly baked pizzas, fish and chips, and fish tacos, all cooked to order. Guests choose from an extensive selection of beers, lager, and wine to accompany their meal. Seating includes communal benches and smaller tables, set across a landscaped garden and covered areas. Service is described as prompt, friendly, and efficient, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

Sushi Gallery offers a broad selection of sushi with generous fillings and well-balanced flavors, popular with both regulars and visitors. Alongside the sushi, the kitchen serves comforting ramen in rich broth and other Asian noodle dishes. Courteous, attentive service and the option for advance catering contribute to its appeal in Kerikeri.

Northland Bagels & Pie Here Pies specializes in freshly made bagels and hearty savory pies served with rich, flavorful fillings. Guests highlight options such as salmon bagels, steak and mushroom pies, and other meat and vegetable varieties. Gluten-free pies and well-made coffee add to the appeal of this welcoming spot.

Gringas serves Mexican-inspired comfort food, with fresh burritos, tacos, and shareable plates like a loaded dip with guacamole, queso, and corn chips. Diners highlight the ability to customize spice levels, complemented by a selection of cocktails and various margaritas, including a coconut version. The lively, welcoming team and upbeat atmosphere make it a popular choice for casual gatherings.

DeLuca Cafe offers robust coffee alongside a wide selection of cabinet food, from salads and pies to pastries and filled croissants. The cafe is noted for its varied gluten-free cakes and slices, which go beyond standard options. Fresh flowers, artwork, and welcoming service create a comfortable setting for a relaxed meal or a quick stop.

New Day Cafe & Indian Restaurant offers café-style dishes alongside fresh baked goods in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Guests appreciate the flavorful brunch plates, including options like seafood soup and eggs Benedict, as well as vegetarian choices. House-made bread, cakes, and slices are highlighted for their freshness. Friendly, attentive staff and changing art displays add to the inviting atmosphere.

Cafe Jerusalem serves vibrant Middle Eastern cuisine, from generous mezze-style plates to shawarma, kofta, and fresh bread with dips. Dishes are described as flavorful, hot, and satisfying, with classic sweets like baklava for dessert. The dining room often feels lively, and the team provides prompt, knowledgeable, and welcoming service.

Mussel Rock Cafe Bar offers a relaxed café-and-bar experience with hearty plates, fresh baked treats, and drinks on tap. Dishes such as steak with salad and fries or mussel fritter bites emphasize straightforward, satisfying flavors. Guests can sit outside to watch the town go by, while attentive staff contribute to a welcoming, local feel.

Swordfish Bar & Bistro offers casual bistro dining with a focus on fresh seafood alongside hearty favorites such as lamb shank, ribs, and burgers. Set above the waterfront with views across the bay, it features a tavern-style room decorated with fishing memorabilia. Friendly, welcoming staff and both indoor and outdoor seating create an easygoing, local atmosphere.

Towai Tavern is a casual pub known for hearty, unfussy fare such as roast or pulled pork sandwiches, Scotch fillet, and mussel fritters. Homemade touches and generous portions are frequently praised. The interior is packed with eclectic memorabilia and quirky details, creating a laid-back, friendly stop that at times features live music.