Treat your taste buds to a delightful array of delicious goodies and mouth-watering meals. From artisanal baking, to locally roasted coffee, and decadent restaurants or family-friendly cafes, Taranaki has something to satisfy every craving.
Coffee
Taranaki punches above its weight when it comes to coffee, and we sure know how to throw down a brew. From the coastal cafés, to the hidden gems tucked into heritage buildings, the region is pouring something special.
Try the beans from one of our local roasteries Ozone Coffee Roasters, Proof and Stock, InCafe, Devils Cup, or Escape Coffee.
Get your caffeine fix at Brunchroom Urenui, Bleached Coffee & Co, or Dawn. Enjoy the laid-back vibes of Tartan Rose, loved for its buttery pastries, Someday Café, home to one of the best custard squares in the region. Fenton Street Arts Collective is home to coffee, art, and award-winning gin.
Brunch
Start the day at Emmalou’s for a nourishing breakfast and macaron to go. The Federal Store dishes up retro charm with hearty portions and a buzzing atmosphere. Locals Café lives up to its name with a strong sense of community and crowd-pleasing menus, and Chaos Café keeps things creative and cosy in the New Plymouth CBD.
Monica’s Eatery, inspired by the legendary Monica Brewster, serves artistic plates just steps from the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.
Head south to Sugar Juice Café for homestyle comfort with a friendly smile, or stop in Hāwera where Upside Down Eatery offers fresh, flavoursome dishes in a welcoming space that’s perfect for brunching.
Bakeries and sweet treats
Sink your teeth into freshly baked bread from Baked by Blanche at the Good Score Food Store, indulge in Public Kitchen’s spiced delights, and award-winning custard squares at Piccolo Morso, or treat yourself to Billow Bakery’s sourdough creations. While Knead Donuts is home to some of the most famous donuts in Taranaki. Pick up baked delights from The Baking Company in Stratford with its range of delicious slices, tarts, and savouries all freshly made each day.
After a day exploring, stop at Iona Dairy, a local secret for the biggest ice-creams in town. Looking for something special? Head to Little Liberty Creamery in Inglewood for a gourmet treat.
Lunch
Tuck into The Teahouse after a stroll around the famous Pukekura Park lake, a tranquil spot to enjoy lunch with a view. Wild Pear Kitchen is a vibrant plant-based café serving up colourful, nourishing dishes that are as wholesome as they are flavour-packed.
In central New Plymouth, Frederics offers a hearty and welcoming lunch menu, Liardet Street Projects brings together a collection of street food vendors in a vibrant, open-air setting — perfect for casual grazing and people-watching.
Over in Ōpunake, Arty Tarts Café is a must-stop for homemade goodness and quirky charm. Along Surf Highway 45, The Bach on Surf Highway is beloved for its fresh flavours and coastal atmosphere, and if you’re venturing up the maunga, Ngāti Ruanui Stratford Mountain House delivers satisfying meals with some of the most scenic dining views in the region.
Dinner
Taranaki has something to suit all tastes with a humming dining scene that features fresh seasonal produce.
Indulge in a delicious shared dining experience at Social Kitchen, Snug Lounge, or Laughing Buddha. Enjoy a soul-warming meal at The Burnt Place, or take a window seat at Arborio and dine overlooking the sea. Try Fredric's for prime cuts of meat and tasty cocktails, or grab a wicked burger from Serial Griller, Gamma Ray’s, or Hot Fridays.
For incredible oriental flavours head to Cinnamon Kitchen, India Today, Siam Thai, It’s Ramen Time, Sushi Ninja, or Arranged Marriage.
Brews and Views
Discover the art of gin distilling on a Juno Gin Tasting and Distillery Tour, unwind over a delicious meal and craft beverage at Shining Peak Brewery, or The Three Sisters Brewery. Enjoy one of over 300 wines at The Hour Glass, or enjoy a mulled wine at the West End Precinct’s Itch Wine Bar or craft beer lovers should head to the Taranaki Beer Festival (16 – 17 May), to discover over 25 brewers from across Aotearoa.
Indulge at some of our top outdoor dining spots including Black Sand Pizzeria, Upside Down Eatery, Okurukuru Bistro, Rooftop Bar and Eatery, Quails Nest, the Kiosk at Fitzroy, Butlers Reef, and Gusto Restaurant.