Bay of Plenty Destinations

Alma Eatery

A beachfront setting and an award-winning menu presented by long-time hospo pros. Co-owner and head chef Marco Velickovic, with life and business partner, Ewelina Large, have generations of food cred behind them. Marco’s dedication extends to catching the fish for you.

Alpino

The much-loved sibling of its Cambridge namesake, this BOP top spot brings the terrific Italian traditions of its big Waikato sis to the Mount. “Pizza, pasta, people” is their motto – and they certainly deliver on that promise with seasoned panache.

Deckchair Café and Sundowner Beach Bar

From daylight to dusk, these two adjacent addresses cover all your bases. Chef/co-owner Perrin Yates stamps his admirable pedigree: first at the café (premium ingredients, maximum flavour), then the bar (beers, wines, cocktails and Perrin’s ultimate bar snacks). Sea views, too.

Fife Lane Kitchen & Bar

This is a contemporary, high-end dining experience where you can sit back and drink in the ambience, or an aperitif, as the chefs transform grass-fed meats with the power of fire, or fish that is wharf-side fresh. A meticulously curated wine list includes some vintage gems.

Izakai Bar & Eatery

A marriage of great minds where the culture, traditions and flavours of Māori and Japanese origins create a local twist on the ‘izakaya’ (stay-drink-place) style of food. Hence, honey pork and watercress ramen; creamed pāua and prawn gyoza.

Lantern

If the occasion calls for Asian, this is your number. Colourful plates made with care and the freshest ingredients all served on the covered terrace or delightful tropical garden. A culinary tour of the Orient with all the favourites (from green papaya salad to massaman curry) and some surprises.

Picnicka Bar & Grill

Slick, uncomplicated food served in cosy, sophisticated and cool spaces that add sizzle to the CBD. A wood-fired Argentinian-style barbecue in the hands of accomplished head chef Ryan Allen provides the smoke and fire that gives the menu pickings plenty of kick.

Poco

Bring your friends and your appetite to this contemporary tapas bar whose name means ‘a little’ but which offers a lot. Mediterranean-inspired mini and mighty bites will get the conversation flowing. Hand-picked wines and craft beers are the perfect accompaniment to a great night out.

Saltwater Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar

At last: a loud, proud contemporary playground for seafood lovers in this coastal sunshine paradise. Chef Neil Sapitula showcases some tremendous kaimoana options, letting the flavours sing with their own simplicity. Non-seafood options, cocktails and bites provide an added bonus.

Somerset Cottage

There’s satisfaction in the tried and true at this restaurant where decades-old faves feature on the ‘classic’ menu and contemporary touches are provided with an alternative modern option. Founding owners Anne Butcher and Rick Lowe continue to keep this bright Bethlehem star alight. There’s a cooking school, too.

Sugo

In the capable care of British chef Ian Harrison (ex-Alpino, Clarence), Sugo is a sure bet. Billed as a place for food and family, good friends and good times, it encapsulates the generous Italian ethos on which the menu is based.

We’d love to know about your favourite spots.
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