Where to eat: the 50 best restaurants in Hamilton

I really love the high ceiling. It makes it extra classy. The food is delicious, no complaints at all. The plating is well executed. From savoury to sweet dishes, perfect. It did take a while for the dishes to arrive and they did bring it out one by one, needs improvement on this. We also highly appreciate how they have a list for people with food allergies, you can tell how much they care and are very careful. Makes it easier for us to decide for our friend who has a strict diet. Would come back here. I recommend. It could be expensive.

Part of a No 8 Bus tour. Four course meals, on plates, at Tables. 8 people per table. Help ourselves. Plenty for all. Great selections. Service very prompt. More if you wanted it. Waitresses very attentive and pleasant.. The offer was made to takeaway uneaten food. Thank you..... 10 out of 10...

I had my birthday dinner with my friend here. We both loved all the dishes that we shared. I love the concept of tapas. Various options on the wines and I was able to choose easily among them. Service was amazing. Overall amazing experience

Incredible place to have dinner! Nice view, attentive staff and superb food. Highly recommended

On planning a return trip to New Zealand, this made it to our top Must Do list. In our opinion, the best dining experience in all of NZ.

Every dish here was exceptional. The food has a real wow factor from start to finish. The beef tataki was my favourite, beautifully prepared, fresh, and full of flavour. The chicken was also excellent, tender and perfectly cooked. Even the chips were impressive. The dumpling dish was another highlight, filled with mushrooms and served with a rich butter sauce that felt like a creative East meets West fusion. The puff special with custard was light and crisp on the outside and smooth and creamy inside. I attended a private function dinner and did not pay for the meal, but it was truly worth every bit of praise. As a foodie, I can confidently say this is the best restaurant I have visited this year. If I ever return to Hamilton, I will definitely come back. This was my first trip to New Zealand, and this dinner made it a wonderful and unforgettable experience.

A delicious meal, excellent service and a truly ambient atmosphere. We shall definitely return.

MAlAYSIA INSiDE HAMILTON Having dined at Madam Woo with hubby at Hamilton today 9/7/3025, below is our observations: GOOD POINTS: 1. Ambiance of the restaurant is very cosy and well-decorated with traditional Malaysian-style setting. 2. Excellent staff, waitress "Kera" and the restaurant manager "Kristi "were friendly and well customer service trained. Kristi really is multi-purpose handling Reception, then observing in the Kitchen and checking with customers, despite all tables are fully booked. Kera is very friendly, helpful and knows how to talk to customers and gave recommendations to us for what dishes are the best, including her favourite dishes. 3. My hubby who eats a lot of Indian food says the Roti canal is the best he has ever tasted . The yellow curry sauce is also very tasty. NOT SO GOOD POINTS: 1. No parking provided. We had to park two blocks away and walk about 100 meters. But given the good reviews on this venue, we happily did the walk. 2. As there are quite a number of customers even at an early dining time, 5:50pm, we had to wait for around 25 mins for our food to be served. ADVICE: Why not give them a try ?

A lovely meal out with great food and plenty of space. Made a reservation for a larger group - there was a hold on the credit card for this to avoid no-shows, which was unexpected, but this was no trouble. Food was gorgeous. Cocktails were wonderful too. The large group area meant we had a little more privacy. Recommended. Great value for money too, as whilst we bought a meal each, it was easily shareable to experience more flavours. Fantastic.

the malaysian food are delicious. Especially the yellow curry chicken, the taste is very close to Malaysia taste.

The taste of the food we had- portugese egg tart, satay, char kuey teow (x2), roti canai, beef rendang and all sauces provided - a 3 out of 10 rating. Not worth NZ$149

The food was mostly good, but quite a small portion size for the price. We felt like we could get similar quality elsewhere for much less money! We each had a Hawker roll which were delicious. I enjoyed the sesame prawn toast, which was very different from what I was expecting, but a great combination of flavours and textures. The chicken satay was good, but unremarkable. The only thing we really didn't like was the dumplings in beef broth. The dumplings themselves were strangely bitter, and it was a lot spicier than we expected, considering this is not mentioned on the menu. The Portuguese custard tarts were delicious, as was the coconut rice pudding. The building and decor are nice, but the tables are quite packed in. Service was good overall.

I ordered the woo fried rice with chicken and it was amazing. My girlfriend ordered spicy noodles and she said they were "perfect, delicious and filling" both were reasonable prices. We even asked our server to take a photo of us and she did with no hesitation. great food great service reasonable prices and a beautiful aesthetic. I will be returning

Location and atmosphere and service was top notch. Food was below average. We ordered the laksa, char kuey teow and rendeng. The rendeng was nice but the laksa was watery and bland, it also has a bit of a kick to it which was wierd and unusual for laksa's in general. The char kuey teow also didn't have much flavour, it was also lacking in the "char" department

Visited Iguana many times over the years. Today we had salads, the salmon salad and the Moroccan lamb. We both enjoyed our meals. The service was good. The place is a little rundown though and it’s an obvious difference since it first opened but I’d still recommend it for a lunch.

Came here for my birthday and felt so welcome and looked after all night. Staff were amazing, food was delicious, and the cozy atmosphere made it even better! Lamb shank was hearty and perfect, pizza was yum, and the wings were super moreish (would love a bit less sauce (ik but there was a lot) and more chilli + lemon and they’d be next level). The surprise birthday dessert was such a thoughtful touch and really made the night. This place stands out – highly recommend! 🫡‼️

So, good. From the service to the food, everything was just amazing 👏. The portion size was huge 👌. The deserts were to die for especially the Sticky Date Pudding, the best one I have 😋😋

Monday Night $20 Pizza night, couldn't wait to try the famous pizzas. Unfortunately, 20 extra minute wait and the base wasn't cooked properly and too much cheese in the middle and uncooked. Flavours great but cooking let it down. We also had the ribs... stone cold... what a shame. Great sauce, just too cold to eat. Probably, they waited too long for the pizza to be ready. Less is always best for pizza, and cheese needs to bubble and turn brown.

The food was amazing! Generous portions and intentionally crafted dishes. there was a decent selection of meats, fish and veggie options. The food did take a little while to come out, but totally worth the wait! Lots of space inside for big dining groups. Great balance of upscale food in a fairly casual atmosphere.

Celebrated my Sons 21st in the Garden Bar. Awesome service. Great place and great food. Thankyou Team on an awesome job well done.

I recently visited Iguana Street Bar & Restaurant, and it was a delightful experience. The food was flavorful, fresh, and beautifully presented. I highly recommend the Entree Share Platter and the Prime Eye Fillet, which were standouts. Service was prompt and friendly, with staff attentive without being overbearing. The only downside was the noisy atmosphere, but it’s still a great spot for a casual meal or special occasion. Overall, a satisfying dining experience.

Food was really great, lots of thought gone into presentation and the taste matched the look. However the service and decor didn't. Service was friendly and efficient, but unrefined. Our waitress had not been trained on how to hospo-carry or clear plates. Much clattering ensued with a precarious stack tottering away. The restaurant wasn't busy on a Friday night, and they chose to sit all the diners together along the wall instead of spreading us out so the restaurant looked more full, and allowing us all more private space. Decor lacked style and atmosphere, I felt like I was sitting in a canteen! They still had their tacky tinsel Xmas tree blue-tacked to the wall on the 10th January! 🙄

Dined here with friends for dinner. Fabulous service and awesome food. All entrees, mains, side dishes and desserts were cooked to perfection and the accompaniments really accommodated each dish. All the meat and fish was cooked perfectly. Such a delicious taste sensation. The cheese board was perfect too. Great wine list! What more can I say, we will definitely be back.

Hamilton fine diners where are you ? Food was fabulous , great service , excellent wine selection- needing more patronage ! Support this lovely restaurant - it deserves to be full !

The food was exceptional. Not a whole lot to add other than that, if you're looking for a fine dining experience I would definitely recommend.

Adorable interior and very friendly staff. The music was fun. The food was exceptionally delicious. I was surprised it wasn’t packed with people. Where I’m from, Seattle US, it would be difficult to get reservations and a place with food this good.

This place is a must for a wonderful dining experience. The food here is top tier and in comparison to other fine dining restaurants I have eaten in the service and the food is exceptional!!!!!

Best meat I have had so far in NZ. Very warm service even we were one of the only two tables at that night. Dish presentation was also perfect. Strongly recommended, worth every penny

The food at River Kitchen was okay, but the coffee was spot on! It’s a small cozy corner perfect for a quiet coffee break. There aren’t many breakfast options, but what’s on the menu is decent. If you love a good coffee, it’s definitely worth stopping by.

Had heard the scones where amazing..... Absolutely custard and date was delicious. Staff so lovely. Even had the owner ask how everything was. Good old school service........ A true hidden gem.....

I went with my family for breakfast and the staff were really accomdating and friendly. On top of that the food was really well done, even though there was a little bit of a mistake with our order they kindly made up for it with no hassle so thank you for that! Would definitely go again :) Little bit of feedback, it would be really nice if the cinnamon roll had a bit more of the filling inside 😅

I ordered a decaf oat flat white and eggs on toast. $28.89. So expensive for what it is. The eggs were good, hard to get that wrong, the toast was soft, but again, not hard to get wrong. I just can’t believe the cost of something so simple. Officially the most expensive coffee I have ever purchased! Wish I checked before I swiped my card.

Excellent portions & taste. I was surprised by the three poached eggs on my Eggs Benedict. The coffee & hash veggies were delicious too! It did take a long time for the food to be served but the flavors made up for the wait.

It’s my birthday brunch and we decided to check out the Sconery. Food: We got the big breakfast and had it to share. Even after splitting it into two the servings were still huge. Good quality bacon, sausages, egg and hash brown. Quentin was fascinated with the round sourdough biscuit tasting cookie looking pastry that came with the meal (brioche or English muffin - we had to ask the chef what it was). For dessert we got the Dates + Custard Scones and it was heavenly. Ambiance: Love the straightforwardness of the decor. Exposed brick as interior?Yes to that! And who would have thought green pool tiles would work? It did. My favorite part is the exposed kitchen. You can see how your food is made. Makes for great entertainment when waiting for your meal. People: The staff were friendly and accommodating. Love how the cook acknowledges people as she makes the meal. Room for improvement: Quentin’s flat white was good but my iced latte needs a bit of work. Overall it was such a great brunch experience. I can see why people line up to see what’s on the cabinet and grab one to go. P.S. As we were paying for the extra coffee Quentin got he told the crew it’s my birthday. They went out their way and got a pastry with candle lighted come out for me. It was sooooo sweet! They feel like family. Something someone like me who comes 8,000+ miles away needs.

Visited The Sconery for lunch, really enjoyed our drinks. The custard scone was nice, the gluten-free hotcakes with butter and lemon were nice to start with, I really enjoyed the first one. I found the second one a bit dry and couldn't finish the third one. In the little jug was more lemon juice, not something that would've made much difference. The experience would have been much better if there was something to cut through the dryness, a compote, a sauce, fruit, anything. Overall a nice place to stop in.

Beautiful cafe! We came on father's day. It was incredibly busy, but we got a seat and service was nice and quick considering how busy it was. Serving staff were very friendly, helpful and polite. The food is fantastic. Portion sizes are good and hearty so you feel you are getting value for money. I love when cafe's have some options that aren't quite your classic breakfast options. So I had to get the bangers on toast. The sausages were lovely and meaty with a light spice. The tomato kasundi took the dish to the next level. Would highly recommend. The counter has some amazing looking sweet treats. We had to try the brownie and it lived up to expectations. So rich and gooey. Will definitely be returning.

Punnet Eatery, was very busy so we chose to sit close to the playground. We have a 2 year old granddaughter and she enjoyed the different equipment. We used the QR Code ordering. There was a bit of waiting time but considering how many people their were, not too long. The food and drinks came the same time, I prefer the drinks first but again that's just my preference. Food was tasteful and well prepared. We will be back.

Always a joy to go there, especially with little ones. However, the trampoline was 'cordoned off' with three pieces of plastic but 3 kiddies were clambering on and around it.

Great lil local cafe in Tamahere with a vibey atmosphere. Extensive playground for small children and a cute gift shop with a great variety of cook books, homewares, bathroom gifts, and food goodies. Great portions of brunch offerings and super friendly service.

We celebrated our daughter’s 1st birthday here — the service was amazing, the food was delicious, and the best part was not having to set up or pack away! Such a lovely vibe too, with the playground right opposite us. 🎉💛

The food and service were excellent, although we experienced a mix of three waitresses and a double-serve of drinks. Perhaps this was due to our close proximity to the end of the service time, as they ensured our orders were processed promptly. The ambiance, price, quality, and portion size were all excellent. We would definitely consider returning for future visits to New Zealand.

Coffee was great but we arrived at a busy time and were unable to order from the menu. Having never been there before we didn't realise we'd have to book for 3 people. Disappointed in the limited selection of cabinet food--all sweet, nothing savoury. Amazing playground for my granddaughter which kept her amused for ages-- couldn't get her to come and sit and eat anything 😁

There is an outdoor area which is so nice especially for dogs! We ordered the chicken burger, sticky chicken and big breakfast. The chicken dishes were loved but not the big breakfast as the sausage seemed store bought and beans were not right. The customer service staff on Saturday were friendly, one main person on the counter was abit too direct. Would recommend for a breakfast option and try for yourself as my experience was average here compared to the other cafes I’ve been to.

The sticky chicken is new, it seems similar to Donburi chicken but on the salty side the sauce is mainly soy sauce, the rest of the original ones still remain the good standard as usual.

Amazing. Staff awesome and friendly, food outstanding and toilets...amazing experience. My new go to when in Hamilton. Highly recommended.

Lovely café! Food looked great — perfectly poached eggs, though the hollandaise sauce was a little bland. Staff were really friendly and gave a warm welcome. The white hot chocolate was delicious, served with marshmallows and a lolly. If I come visit hamilton next time ,i definitely come back here again! 😋

I ordered a double espresso, a piccolo, and a muffin, and the overall experience was disappointing — especially when it comes to the coffee, which is the foundation of any café. The espresso was burnt, bitter, and over-extracted, with that unmistakable sharp smell that tells you the beans have been pushed too far. The piccolo wasn’t any better. The milk was clearly overheated — you could hear it from the thin, screechy stretch — and once overheated, milk loses all sweetness and becomes dull and flat. The final pour had no texture, no consistency, and no sign of proper technique. When the pour is the last step, and even that isn’t done right, it shows a lack of care behind the machine. The muffin was fine. It looked better than it tasted, and that seemed to be the theme. Presentation is good, but the flavour doesn’t live up to the visual appeal. Service-wise, the staff were arrogant rather than welcoming. There’s a sense of “we know coffee,” but the actual product in the cup tells a very different story. When customers can smell burnt espresso and hear milk being scorched, but the barista insists they know best, it becomes more frustrating than anything else. It was busy at the time, and the wait was reasonable, but the busyness only highlighted another issue: the cleanliness of the coffee area. A clean machine station says a lot about experience and discipline. Here, it was messy enough to be noticeable — a sign that the team hasn’t mastered maintaining a clean, efficient workspace while still producing high-quality drinks. Experienced baristas can do both. In this case, neither was happening. Atmosphere-wise, the space itself looks good from the outside and feels decent when you walk in. But once you sit down and the actual experience starts — the coffee, the service, the overall execution — the disappointment sets in. The café has potential, but right now the quality of the coffee and the attitude behind the counter drag everything down. If those two areas don’t improve, nothing else will matter.

Lovely food. Dog friendly. Our new local breakfast and coffee spot.

I love this cafe! As a celiac (gluten free) the staff was very accommodating and catered to my needs completely. I’m very particular about my coffee and I can vouch for their coffee being one of the best here in Hamilton. Would 10/10 recommend !!

Very nice food and service. Pate dish was excellent. Is the whole menu Vietnamese? Probably not. Except for the pho, and banh mi. Even the banh mi cut is not Vietnamese. But overall the food is really good. So if you’re missing home food from Vietnam this might not be the right place, but good food is good food nevertheless.

Over the weekend, we had the incredible team at Banh Mi cater a small party for us (15 adults and 3 children). From the initial point of contact, Ann was professional, gave amazing menu ideas and was always quick to reply. On the day, they arrived and set up the most beautiful food including nibbles and mains. The food was fresh, delicious and beautifully presented and everyone at the party (including the kids who had their own kids meals) raved about the food. If you're looking for catering - look no further than Banh Mi. We absolutely could not fault them.

Fabulous meal of Beef Pho and Prawn & Pork Rice Noodle Rolls. Flavours were vibrant and fresh and the service was professional, prompt and friendly. Definitely worth a visit when you’re next in Hamilton!

Nice place, kind service. It wasn't the best Nanh Mi I've tried. The bread wasn't too fresh. And I ordered tacos without coriander, but the sauce was mixed with it. Except for the coriander, it was good!

Delicious, fresh, flavoursome food! Vibrant atmosphere and friendly, helpful staff. Spring rolls and ginger chicken noodle salad were 10/10

Here on business, Banh Mi Caphe was recommended by some local Hamiltonians, so I checked it out. And what a wonderful surprise. Starting with the freshly prepared prawn and pork summer roll, moving to the best chicken curry I've ever had. 3 drumsticks cooked so tender, the meat fell off the bone. Jasmine rice to soak up the yellow curry, just enough heat to feel comfortable for someone who enjoys hot. But not too hot. However the best part was meeting Bradley, who not only manages the place, but makes some of the best cocktails in town. And Hamilton makes some great cocktails! Check it out. It's got a great vibe, friendly staff and cool music to chill to while you watch the world pass you by!

Came here for dinner and I was impressed. We got the 5 for $55 share plates and each dish was exceptional. The food was cooked to a high standard, the ingredients were fresh, the flavors used in the dishes were well thought out and worked together. The servers were really attentive and friendly. Highly recommend coming here

Totally uncooked scones. Mine was cheese, took a small wedge out to try but it was SO doughy, it was inedible. I noticed on the next table (took a photo) that they had left their date scone, also looked totally under baked. I feedback to the staff who removed it however I had to follow-up & ask for a refund. Was disappointed as the last time we had been there it was good

Great ambience and less crowded on Sunday morning. The chef took longer to prepare the food (he must be on his phone) but the staff from the bar accompanied us amazingly. Lots of tables and seats which is great! Family Friendly

Amazing Food... Really good presentation... good service... Lovely workers... Ordered a eggs benedict and big breaky and received a separate plate of bacon enough to serve 2-3 people and pork sausage and mushrooms so good .... Definitely recommend.... Best cafe me and my partner have ever been to by far... 😁

Very weird atmosphere. The cafe has so much potential with a great outdoor seating area and good layout, but the place looks and feels barren. The outdoor area could really do with a days worth of clean up to make it real neat. Wasn't impressed with the service, as we weren't greeted upon entering and had to wait a few minutes before being seen. Food was alright, but overall dissapointed at the experience.

We haven’t eaten at two birds recently, however it use to be a family favourite. Today we came in for some lunch, we ordered the chicken burger and the bruschetta. The chicken burger was under average- the chicken was as if it was made yesterday and reheated today, it was tough and grey. The roasted vegetables on the bruschetta were burnt to the point the flavour was overwhelming. The outdoor area has potential however it is not well maintained, with overgrown bushes and lights hanging off the walls. Overall, Two Birds Eatery is somewhere I would not recommend.

Will never come back. The coffee was watery, and the food was average. Can't understand why they cooked mushroom that way. This was my first time there. We waited ten minutes, I had to walk up to the counter just to realize I needed to grab my own menu and order there. We ordered three items. Just to let you know, the place was totally empty, we were the only customer, and it still took 30-40 minutes for our food to come out. Food was so average we couldn't finish them, but there was no way I was taking the leftovers. First of all, the food wasn't worth the effort of packing up. Secondly, the takeaway containers were ridiculously small, maybe 200ml? As soon as I saw the box, I figured, 'Nope, forget it.' The service was non-existent. I had to order myself, grab my own water, and the staff (maybe scrolling her phone) didn't check on us even once after she dropped off the plates. I totally regret going, especially brought my family. It was a complete waste of cash."

Used to be a favourite for great Allpress coffee and delicious cabinet food. Sadly, on my recent visit, there was no cabinet selection, a reduced menu, and disinterested service. Coffee was average at best. Disappointing experience—won’t be returning. Feels like it’s winding down.

Not a fan of my meal (savoury chicken noodle soup) as it was bland and chicken was just shredded basic chicken from countdown. Otherwise good wholesome service and vibes.

Very delicious lunch Dandan dry noodles with braised pork, this is spicy and very flavour full with thin noodles Savoury noodles soup with braised pork Not spicy but they have soy and chilli oil as condiments with flat noodles Don’t go here if you are a bland eater. Fried wontons always yummy Passionade mocktail Lychee mocktail

I had the sweet and sour pork and it was so delicious and full of flavour! Really decent portion sizes that I had enough leftover to take home for another meal. Great prices there too. Lovely staff and great customer service, will definitely be coming back.

The most delicious food I've had in a long time. I had the dandan noodles and my son the chili noodles, and dumplings. Your order from the table which is easy but it's always nice to have a human serve you. When I had questions about the food the boys were very friendly and helpful. Beautiful interior. Great experience. Highly recommend.

We were a group of six and unfortunately found the food to be below average. None of the dishes we ordered really stood out or felt exciting. Not the best Chinese food in Hamilton- there are definitely better options nearby.

Generous portions. Ideal to share. Friendly staff. The food arrived quickly. Good for couples and parties. We went on a weekday for dinner and wasn’t busy. The spring onion pancakes and the Chinese burgers were my favourite. We got row pork and one chicken. The pork were delicious.

We ordered the braised beef which came with an option of broccoli and cauliflower or carrot and potatos, waiter forgot to mention potatoes and we got everything but the potatoes. Dumplings were average and the chilli sauce had an odd taste. Cucumber salad was amazing! This needs to be a meal! However with. $17 price tag for one cucumber is abit ridiculous. Facility is clean to dine in but I wouldn’t return, but I would recommend to try it for yourself.

Pretty good portion for the price. Crispy Chicken skin is really nice, just hope the sauce was double quantity as the plate was big. Sticky rice was nice. Hope Banh My came out at least warm. We were the first ones to come when they open the door 😂

The food was really tasty and just the right amount of flavors to everything. I had the Bun Bo Hue (came with extra red peppers on the side if it wasn’t already spicy enough for you) and Salt n’ Pepper Squid (soft, chewy, battered and fried to golden perfection) it did not disappoint. Staff were really attentive and friendly, didn’t miss a beat to being helpful to all the customers. They all worked well together. Such a cute and delightful spot!

Wow, Rice Rice Baby absolutely blew me away! The food here is seriously delicious, with every dish packing an incredible punch of flavour. And the speed? It was lightning fast – almost like takeaway service, but with restaurant quality. The staff were super chilled and friendly, which added to the relaxed vibe of the place. Even the little things were spot on – the toilets were spotless. It's a really casual spot, perfect for a laid-back meal. My only tip would be that if you're planning to go on a busy Friday or Saturday night, especially with a larger group, you'd be wise to try and book ahead. Honestly, I can't wait to go back – highly recommended! vego options were grand and the staff were knowledgeable and happy to switch things up

Can I just say, your staff are so lovely here! They were very knowledgeable and friendly with their service. The food was absolutely tasty, cooked beautifully and well presented. I really enjoyed the pork with sticky rice, and the chicken skins were perfect. We will be back again for sure! My friends were equally happy with their experience here today. 10/10!

A funky Vietnamese restaurant with a busy take away App as well. They have a gorgeous menu and passionate staff. A relaxed atmosphere, I can see why it’s popular. We dined a few months ago in the early evening we relaxed and had the pork belly and prawn options on the main menu. The dumplings are fantastic!! Thank you to the staff. I’ll be back again. Since our restaurant experience, I’ve downloaded the app and ordered twice since!

We are regulars at Rice Rice Baby, Grey St, Hamilton East. Particular favorites are the Spicy Prawn Coconut Fried Rice, the Crispy Pork Belly in Sticky Sauce and any of the Spring Rolls. It pays to be a club member, ordering online is easy and pick up is always on time. If we choose to dine in, the service is equally fast and the drinks are great. Can be noisy when it's busy, still fun.

Rice rice baby was our first favorite restaurant since moving to Hamilton! Now we have it whenever we’re celebrating, whenever we’re sad, or really whenever the other person has a craving 🤣 Everything on the menu is amazing, they never miss!! My favorite is the beef pho, the grilled meat noodle salad and the banh mis! 💗

Stunning riverside views, quality food and good drinks selection. I had the prawn sando, which will be a Hamilton staple every trip… The chicken was a yummy blend of sweet, heat and savoury. Washed down with the best Hazy in NZ. I was greeted at the entrance, given options of seating and friendly, quirky service. Haven’t been for a few years and glad this establishment is still providing quality, and alive and well. “I’ll be back…”

The very best dining experience we have had in years. OMG, so good. We had a Wonderful waiter, blond hair young man, who explained each dish in detail. This made our dining experience even better. He even told us to try the tea without milk, which he was correct, it tasted better just black. Every single dish we had was truly amazing. My favourite was the beef croquettes. Thank you, Chefs, for giving a damn about the way you cook.

Great place. From walking in to the leaving. Attentive staff and eager to make time enjoyable. Food delicious, presented really well and timing so well done. The music the best for atmosphere and getting in the happy place. Not too loud too. The decor from seats at the bar to entering all had such character. Loved it. Neighbour shops with sip and sew, browser book store, also open late made the area unique and memorable.

My husband & I are on holiday from Australia and decided to try here as the reviews were great. Well it did not disappoint. Food & presentation impeccable and service amazing. Highly recommend to come here either with friends or on a date night.

The star of the dishes was the beetroot. We will definitely order that again the next time we’re here. The rest weren’t too bad as well. The Donatello mocktail was also a must try!

Had dinner here the other night for the first time and absolutely loved it. The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, and the food was fantastic. I had the market fish. Our server Georgia was a gorgeous young lady. friendly, helpful, and made us feel really looked after. It’s so nice when someone genuinely enjoys what they do. We’ll definitely be back. Highly recommend Mr Pickles for a great meal and excellent service.

Beautiful, unique, and inviting place perched upon the waikato river. Absolutely loved the display of plants throughout and the efficiency of service from the amazing male waiter that tended to us and made our experience so much more enjoyable! Highly recommend place for great food and drink to match. The sour gummy bear cocktail is a must, and the sticky chicken was the best chicken by far my fiance and I have ever had! 10/10, we will be back. Thanks for your amazing service and experience team @ Mr Pickles

One of the male staff took our orders in and when the another customer arrived, they were a couple + with children, after they ordered, the male staff provided plates and chopsticks to them leaving us with none. So we thought that was a bit weird, instead, we gathered some plates and utensils for ourselves from the station. Not sure if this was a selective approach but we felt it somehow. The lady cashier as well did not inform us that the takeaway container charge is $.60c - it would be alright if she told us beforehand that they charging for takeaway containers. But nonetheless, food is good. Lots of food choices to choose from. We had noodle soups, dumplings and pancake. It was yummy!

This spot served up authentic flavours and hearty portions. The dan dan noodles were an absolute standout. The broth was rich, aromatic, and full of depth, while the fresh, chewy noodles soaked up every bit of flavour. The combination of meat, veggies, and peanuts tied the dish together beautifully, creating a dynamic and satisfying bowl. It’s easily one of the best dan dan noodles I’ve had — a definite must-try! The crispy pan-fried pork and prawn dumplings were another highlight. Each bite delivered a perfect balance of crisp exterior and juicy interior, and that “mum’s secret garlic soy sauce”? Absolutely addictive! I was left wondering what magic went into it after the very first dip. These dumplings prove that the team here has truly mastered the art of pan frying while maintaining that delicate, steamed-like texture inside. On the flip side, the pan-fried pork buns didn’t quite hit the mark for me. They felt more like oversized dumplings rather than soft, fluffy buns. The texture was a bit tough, and the filling had an unusual flavour that didn’t match the deliciousness of the pork and prawn dumplings. I’d probably skip these next time. Overall, though, this eatery offers great value for money, with generous portions and excellent quality across most dishes. If you’re looking for flavour-packed noodles and expertly made dumplings, this place should be high on your list.

The 锅包肉 is delicious, but the batter is a little too much. It tastes very good. will come again next time

A little bit embarrassed to say as a Hamiltonian, this was my first visit to the dumpling house! but can I just say, it will not be my last!! We went as a big group, the service was outstanding and quick, the prices very affordable, and the food was outstanding!!!! Absolutely delicious and the choices were absolutely abundant 😍😎🙏

The food is extremely delicious and in generous portions. Four people ordered four dishes but couldn't finish them all. It's very tasty and truly authentic Northeastern cuisine.

A wonderfully authentic place with genuinely great food. We had the pork belly to share for lunch along with a sharing platter of dumplings and it was so good! The food was hot and fresh, the service was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. A lovely spot for lunch or dinner!

Just walked into Dumpling House for the first time, and I must say, no regrets trying this place! It's the perfect spot to catch up with friends over a delicious meal without the usual noise you’d find in other busy places. The place has heaps of tablea so it never felt cramped, and I appreciated how spacious and comfortable the setting was. It's got that warm, welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay longer than you planned. Good to be back!

Straight up. If you haven't been here. Go. You need this in your life. Lovely place, amazing people and some of the best noodles I've had since being back in NZ from Asia. It's like having a mince and cheese pie for a kiwi in America! I feel bad telling everyone cause now it's gonna be packed.

As I walked past, I noticed my 2 mates eating in here. I pulled up and went in. Bar had a nice friendly atmosphere and a nice layout with an authentic feel. I order the pork belly hotpot and it was top both. Was so hot(heat) that I felt it had been in a nuclear reactor for a short time but once it had cooled down I could enjoy the full flavours of the dish. The pork belly was delicious and the soup was great too. Plenty of noodles and other well cooked veg. 100% will eat here again. Extremely well priced dishes for the portion sizes. . Highly recommended.

Totally recommend if you’re into Chinese food Flavours on point !! also ordered beef and onion dumplings , A1 soup and drinks meals are pretty large for medium size had leftovers to takeout..$75 well worth the money🩷💜😈🤗

A++ Food is great and pricing is some if the best. Love the portion sizing and taste is very good. Can see why it is so popular. Staff are attentive and easy going. The restaurant itself is a little small and stools are a little high to sit on but you can get by with those minor inconveniences. They also sell frozen dumplings if you prefer to takeaway some of their house-made dumplings back home. Portion sizes are great regular can satisfy most people but if you’re extra hungry you can get a massive bowl (Large) and it will definitely satisfy you. They have outdoor seating but limited to no coverage and no heating so it can get quite cold in the breeze and it’s somewhat exposed. Parking can at most times be difficult to find unless you park in underground garden place parking, which costs, as well as street parking is very limited most days and comes at a cost besides the 2 HR free CBD parking allowance.

Their noodle soups are amazing. And great prices, too. A large soup can easily feed two adults. Our family of 5 shared a couple soups and some dumplings and had leftovers for only $60! Best Chinese restaurant :)

Great flavour. Great texture on noodles. Cute little restaurant. Friendly service and a wide range of options.

Service was quick and friendly, and the serving sizes were really generous. Dumplings were tasty but the broth for the noodles was pretty bland, I ended up adding some of the soy, vinegar and chili oil to it just to add a bit more flavour. Noodles had a great chewy texture but tasted a bit too much like raw flour, that being said they were freshly made and were served super quickly- so they probably didn't have much time to soak up the broth.

During my recent visit, I experienced a 30-minute wait just to purchase a drink, which was really frustrating. It’s clear that more staff are needed during busy periods, especially with international flights expected. That said, I want to acknowledge how lovely and professional the staff were under pressure – they did their best in a tough situation. I hope better staffing support is put in place soon to improve the experience for both customers and employees."

I had fish and chips and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. I didn't consider it to be value for money. The shoe string chips were over cooked and there was only one small piece of fish. The only saving grace was the friendly serving staff. I definitely wouldn't recommend

I used to love this place but not sure what changed🙁 I ordered the fish and chips and disappointingly it tasted like it was cooked weeks ago. My wife ordered the burger and it was dry as a bone. Truly hope Propeller gets back on track. They did refund fish and chips 👍

WOW, This place is ACE we just loved the friendly staff, KARINA & CHARLI, the fabulous service, drinks and beautiful cooked and presented dishes absolutely delicious as was dessert my crème Brûlée out of this world! Occasion was to celebrate my dear sister and beautiful daughter’s birthday and we did it in style! Reasonably priced I thought! We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the PROPELLOR restaurant and bar to any discerning traveller for a fabulous experience. Next to Hamilton airport and JETPARK accommodation. Arthur C. Charlton west Auckland

We stayed at the hotel and so went here for dinner and breakfast. Both were great and enjoyed what we got - seafood platter.

Started with the wings, and wow this what awesome. Main was Lamb shank w salad, again wow perfectly cooked lamb shank and beautiful salad. Dessert was brownie w ice on the side, and wow no words for this dessert the chef has out themselves this time. What a way to finish the night off. Thank you so so much for helping us celebrate my husband's birthday 🎉

Food was awesome. Portions are decent. Staff were so nice and attentive. The restaurant is right next to Hamilton airport which gives a beautiful view over the airport

Having a chocolate and caffeine allergy has stopped me from having any milkshake for 9 years at any given diner or restaurant as chocolate contamination could send me to ER. The staff at BOOF'S DINER went above and beyond to make me feel safe,welcomed and even could I say excited. The milkshakes and pizzas was well over our expectation. Delicious and value for money. Boof's Diner will surely see us again. Added bonus they have games for the kids. A good menu selection. They even have an option for birthday parties. 10/10 A special thank you to Wai and Isla. What an amazing team. Can't say thank you enough.

We had the chicken Burger, beef burger and hotdog. The food was delicious and very well priced. Very friendly service. We will definitely be back!!!

Boof's Ice Cream Diner in Hamilton is an absolute treat for anyone with a sweet tooth! From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to a nostalgic world where ice cream dreams come true. Ambiance: The decor at Boof's Ice Cream Diner is a delightful blend of retro and modern, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere. The only thing is the place is nit very zozy especially for people who want to stay longer. Though the vibrant colors, classic diner booths, and whimsical ice cream-themed accents make it a perfect spot for families, friends, or even a casual date. It’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into making this place not just a spot to grab a quick bite, but a destination where you can enjoy the experience of indulging in your favorite frozen treats. Service: The service at Boof's is not so enticing, the staffs are not that friendly but not rude as well. Ice Cream & Treats: Now, onto the main event—the ice cream! Boof's offers an impressive selection of flavors, from classic favorites like vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options that will excite any palate. I decided to try the ambrosia, boysenberry, lemonata and cookies and cream and it was divine—smooth, creamy, and bursting with rich, buttery flavor. For those who like to mix things up, Boof's also offers customizable options, allowing you to create your own ice cream masterpiece. Value: The portion sizes at Boof's are generous, and considering the quality and the experience, it’s great value for money. Whether you're popping in for a quick scoop or settling in for a full dessert experience, you’ll feel that every cent is well spent. Overall: Boof's Ice Cream Diner is more than just a place to grab dessert—it’s an experience. The combination of fantastic flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and top-notch service makes it a must-visit in Hamilton. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to stop by Boof's and treat yourself to a little slice of ice cream heaven. I’m already planning my next visit!

Have been taking 3 Mokopuna there during the school holidays. Ages 4 to 9. They spend $4 each on the arcade machines & win lollies and stuffed toys. They play on the playground which is more suited to preschoolers & have fun. We have all shared an $18 pizza or had $5 icecreams. The cost for 4 days has been about $100. A cheap price to pay for keeping them occupied. Lots of space and not the crowds like at Timezone. The staff are wonderful young women and the kai is yum. Will be my 'go to' place when Mokositting. Highly recommend.

Went here for the first time today and we were pretty impressed. Burgers and fries were excellent and good value, their milkshakes and ice creams were popular, with quite a few customers coming in just for those. Having a playground and rides for the kids was great. A sign outside said “under new management” so hopefully the negative stuff from older reviews seems to be getting sorted out.

Honestly I wanted to like this place soooo bad. The customer service was great, Awesome place with great looking menu. That is until I heard the staff say NOTHING WAS COOKED IN HOUSE! Pies important, chicken froozen and deep fried, waffles out of a bag!

Mean as service! 🤙 Was looking for a spot for dessert after dinner, did not disappoint. Served by a very welcoming lady who’s service was awesome! Will be back 👍

#Food court# Not too big，but many different choices，including bakery，pasta，rice and dessert. Recommend the cheese ball and coffee.

we have been weekly regular visitors and now only occasionally, ...as bigger retailers ensure good rent "CITTA" for the owner/managers, but it losses attraction to go there... like missing Vegie shop/Butcher shop etc. CITTA and other biggies are misplaced there... artisan atmosphere ensures regulars !!! (you will loose more of good $$$ customers like us in mid/longtermly future.

Took the family there for my Father in laws 80th dinner and it was so disappointing. I chose a salmon on rice dish and the picture looked great but for the price, what came out from the kitchen as terrible. The salmon was all that would amount to 4 small sushi pieces. With rice and finely sliced Cabbage. For the $20 plus price tag? I’ll never go back and be ripped off again!

What an awesome vibe this little eatery gives! It has ice cream, Indian, burger and Asian cuisines as well as bars! Cannot forget the fresh vegetable stores you can purchase from. A little bit of a let down that majority of the staff were not front of house and we had to wait around at the bar or at the Indian place till someone came out and served us. The toilets are located by Burger Burger and the car park is at the next street down. Overall we were happy with our meals, the butter chicken was made nicely and you could taste flavour and the burger was good also! Will return to try the others out.

Lots nice shops here🥳🥳🥳Take your time to explore😎😎😎Must be fun🤟

Made on Grey Street, Hamilton East is a venue that houses a collection of food, drink and home decor shops. Housed in the old Waikato Regional Council building it has an industrial modern feel. Spacious and at the same time intimate and with great views over the River and Hamilton CBD. It’s a great place to grab a quick coffee or a more elaborate meal, have a good glass of wine or something stronger and more adventurous. Recommended if you’re in the neighbourhood.

Made is a vibrant indoor food-and-retail precinct in Hamilton East, New Zealand. It features over 40 artisan vendors, a lively food hall, boutique shops and a riverside setting.

On A Roll Eatery is a delightful spot that truly captures the essence of fresh, flavorful, and convenient dining. I visited this eatery when MADE was first opened, and I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety they offer. The menu is well-curated, offering a range of options that cater to both classic tastes and those looking for something a bit more adventurous. I tried their Hawker Lunch Box and Pork Dumplings - it was nothing short of delicious. The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were well-balanced. The bread was perfectly crusty on the outside yet soft inside, making every bite satisfying. The accompanying sauces and garnishes elevated the dish without overpowering it. The ambiance at On A Roll Eatery is casual and inviting, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. The service was prompt and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience. While the seating is somewhat limited, it’s well-arranged, ensuring you can enjoy your meal comfortably. One minor area for improvement would be the portion sizes, which could be a tad more generous, especially given the price point. However, the quality of the food makes it worth it, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal in Hamilton. Overall, On A Roll Eatery is a gem within MADE, offering a satisfying culinary experience that stands out in the bustling food scene. I’m looking forward to returning and trying more of their offerings!

Had an amazing experience at On A Roll Eatery at Made. It was recommended to me by a friend and I was not disappointed. The service and food was amazing. The staff were not just courteous but also helpful and advised try a platter and what a perfect recommendation as we were able.to taste a wide range of the offering. Was an awesome experience and even though it was busy our food was ready within an acceptable timeframe. Will definitely visit again and will be advising others to visit when looking for dining options.

We went yesterday at on a roll for lunch.Absolutely outstanding experience! The front-of-house lady was welcoming and professional, and the service was flawless. The steak was cooked to perfection tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Compliments to the chef for such exceptional quality. A truly great dining experience. Highly recommend for lunch .

We tried this place out, nice relaxed atmosphere! Was a quiet night so didnt need to book a table which was good. Nice warm outdoor seating area too with heaters going, we still opted for an inside table. Staff are friendly and attentive. Got recommended the platter due to all the items we were ordering so that was nice of the staff to let us know it would be the cheaper option. So we went with that and added an additional noddle salad that we didnt need🤦🏽‍♀️🐷 All our food was deliciously good, fried chicken bahn mi was so yummy! Pork belly bao buns, were mouth watering, nice touch having a bit of crackle in them 👌🏽 We were lucky that the pork belly had just come out! Sticky wings were also a hit and the jumbo dumplings were also yummy!😍 Loved that everything came out without spice but theres spices/chillie at your table to add to your food. All in all, I highly recommend. Pricing can be a little expensive depending on your apetitie but the flavours in their food make it well worth it 👌🏽🥰

I Came to this restaurant a few weeks ago and forgot to leave a review after what I experienced here. This place is absolutely appalling I was rudely served by a Maori lady with short hair seemed like one of the managers there she looked like she didn’t want to serve me and was annoyed. The food was disgusting I ended up getting horribly sick and threw up the same night eating their food. The atmosphere was not it the amount of noise inside of there made it unbearable the whole night eating there. The meat felt undercooked I don’t recommend this place and it is definitely not worth wasting your money on. 👍

3.5 to be exact The Food was delicious the only downfall to the dishes was the amount of hoisin sauce used in certain food which completely over powered the dish and flavors and which made it more salty and unable to eat it all. For someone who loves that flavor would enjoy but otherwise enjoyed what I could.

Went to Vialou branch on a Friday night. Service was slow. Ordered slightly later than rest of my group. Got my food much later. Was dissaponted that the chicken in my honey sesame Chicken sandwich was a bit tough and cold. Not up to usual Made branch standard.

Had a bizarre experience. Sign outside said ‘vacancy’.receptionist told us they had no vacancy but we should call her boss who had a brand new motel ‘straight across the road’. We rang the number she gave us, lady said exactly the same thing - ‘Hamilton Motel, brand new, straight across the road…’ Seemed odd, weren’t convinced we wanted to go there. Pulled out into street, there is NO Hamilton Motel straight across the street or anywhere nearby!

Great ( STAY & SLEEP ) motel, air conditioned units with ceiling fan, we had a 2 person spa bath, & shower with functioning kitchen and full stove. Would have been 4 stars but the access to the out side swimming pool was denied due to it being cleaned, which is a let down in summer looking at a pool full of water and not being able to swim.

Id give less stars if i could. Lucky it wasnt me staying here as i wouldnt even allow my dead goldfish to stay as its an unhealthy living enviroment. The manager isnt helpful as they are lapping up the over paid rent for the rooms by WINZ. Stare clear people

It's a place to rest your head if need be but very rundown in the rooms. The cleaning of units leaves a lot to be desired. (Filthy stove, down sides on floor yuk! Dirty window sills and door frames)Another thing I found disgusting was the main bed had no head board and there were sex handprints all up the wall. This was evident standing in the kitchen looking towards bed. I'm not sure who cleans this motel but I wanted to clean the room before I took things in there. A lot of WINZ Homeless families which makes it feel like your in a camp ground not a motel! I would not recommend considering options on SAME street.

the owner ( caucasian man with uneasinesss bout himself) was found in our unit 3 times that we are aware of over a 6 day stay. For no apparent reason?!?! Place was patroned ny gang members . I honestly felt like it was one of those motels with cameras

ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING !!! Sails motel is the most disgusting place I have ever stayed in.the owner Patrick is no rude and does not care what so ever about his guest,the rooms are outdated and dindgey and damp ,I stayed in the motel for 2weeks and it was the worst motel experience I have ever had,the rooms were filthy and mouldy,my childs body was covered in itchy bites or flea bites,when I informed the owners of the situation he did not care what so ever and gave me fly spray to deal with the problem. Sails motel service is despicable!! The cleaners were rude and bitchy and moaned about having to do there job and service the rooms properly ,nothing was ever replaced,we were constantly hounding the owners and cleaners for fresh sheets and towels.We were also limited to one roll of toilet paper per day which was extremely inconvenient ,we had strict orders to take our own rubbish from our rooms down to the skip bin at the back of the motel ourselves and also vacuum our rooms ourselves and was told that cleaners will not be doing it,the motel is loud and not maintained properly there was small children running around outside and also throughout the corridors late at night until atleast 1am in the morning,there was at least 4-5 rooms which had loud music constantly and the guest all seemed to be outside drinking and partying every night ,there was rooms filled of gang member's also ridiculous amount of drugs being smoked outside and inside of rooms,the pool was never cleaned and always closed even on scorching hot days so children could not swim there was a spa pool advertised which there was no sight of any spa pool and still wouldn't know where it was till this day,I had paid for a studio room which included a queen bed and single bed for a child instead I got a stingy queen bed with stained sheets and a couch for the child to sleep on which had a single sheet and a duvet inner with no duvet cover and an itchy old blanket that had being stored up in the wardrobe,I was also woken at 6am in the morning by the sound of a high powdered water blaster spraying the walls outside,I was sick and tired of living in a filthy room with no fresh towels or linin that when I went and addressed my issue's with the manger(patrick) he said he wasn't interested In anything I had to say,he is rude and doesn't care definitely is not worth $180 a night,it was far from a relaxing enjoyable stay. Don't not recommend !!

NIGHTMARE EXPERIENCE AT SAILS MOTEL!!! I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS HAPPENED! I was in my unit at 8pm last night and from the unit next to me I heard one of the many winz residents swearing and threatening another resident who had parked in his carpark. The swearing and threatening went on for about 2 mins . I poked my head out of the unit and told the guy to stop swearing as I am a guest here n I don't want to listen to that. Then a toothless lady came running up to my room n hit the glass door and threatened me saying I better watch it etc etc. I rang the office and told the owner PATRICK who said "oh usually they are no problem"I said um, they are a problem can u please sort them out..anyway after Patrick looked on the security he proceeded to inform me I interfered about something that had absolutely nothing to do with me!!! And then asked why I felt scared if I had someone else with me in my unit!!! I asked him for a refund as I packed my suitcase etc into my car and was told by him...you have to be joking!! .. it's 9pm ! I cannot believe this happened!! Patrick is only worried about getting money from winz as they are his main guests..and the government pay $1400 a week for these people who are apparently broke who I witnessed smoking cigarettes, and who look like P Smokers. Shocking place!!! AVOID AT ALL COSTS.

A Culinary Experience Like No Other! From the moment we stepped into The Green, we knew we were in for something special. The intimate setting of the Chef’s Table provided a front-row seat to culinary artistry at its finest. Every dish was a masterpiece—thoughtfully curated, beautifully plated, and bursting with flavor. Karl and Drew created a truly unforgettable experience. Their passion for food/beverages and hospitality was evident in every bite and every interaction. From the perfectly paired wines to the exquisite presentation, each course was a delightful surprise. The attention to detail, the impeccable service, and the warm atmosphere made this more than just a meal—it was an experience we’ll be raving about for years to come. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind dining adventure, this is the place. Five stars aren’t enough!

The Green Hamilton - A Chefs Table Absolutely INCREDIBLE! 20/10 food and the seasonal Spiced Apple Cocktail was to die for. It wasn’t just phenomenal food, it was science, art and great banter. Karl and Drew were excellent hosts, I’ll be salivating over this experience for months. If you want to go, you need to keep an eye out for when they open the books - it’s at least a 3 month wait. And while it is a small investment to go, it is worth every cent. I really can’t recommend it enough!!!

The Green A Chefs Table is simply a treat. Chef Karl’s degustation menu is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, signature creations, culinary skill and sensory exploration. Everything on the table is exquisite, fresh and vibrant. In-house sommelier, Drew is passionate, knowledgeable and attentive. His attention to detail gleams. Beautiful place, beautiful people, beautiful food.

Absolutely incredible first time at The Green for dinner last night. We booked in June and it was worth the wait. Drew the sommelier was waiting at the door to welcome our party of 5 while Karl was ready for us at the pass. Two other couples were also booked along with our group and once the ice was broken between everyone it was a highly enjoyable atmosphere. The food was exceptional - beautiful locally sourced produce with New Zealand wines to match. We started with a Cambridge duck, daikon and ponzu ‘pie’ followed by house made honey bread and Dreamview Creamery butter; asparagus, aged Gouda, onion weed and oxalis was next, then fresh off the boat trevally crudo from Raglan Fish, which was paired with magnolia, parsley gel, buttermilk granita and fennel molasses; next up was lamb two ways with black bean sauce, pickled red onion and broccoli puree; pre-dessert was a gorgeous palate cleansing frozen whipped lemon marshmallow with lemon jam and a lemon skin tuile before the main dessert of Raglan chocolate with textures of butternut squash, orange and hazelnuts. We couldn’t resist the cheeseboard which consisted of Over The Moon cheeses, Karl’s house-made honey bread again and house-made crackers. A little sweet treat of roasted white chocolate fudge, sea salt and beetroot powder topped off the evening. One of our group had to try the much talked about $65 tequila shot too which was well received. Karl has created a masterclass restaurant and Hamilton is lucky to be able to experience his incredible knowledge of food, eye-catching plates and mouthwatering creations. Drew was the perfect sommelier who answered any beverage questions we had and blended seamlessly with Karl. This chef’s table restaurant is a must do for any foodie and perfect for a special occasion.

We had a fantastic dining experience here and are already looking forward to returning again soon – delicious food, great service, and a fantastic vibe!

Absolutely amazing experience at The Green Chef's Table! The food was incredible, showcasing the best of local produce that truly blew my mind. Yes, it's tough to get a booking, but once you secure your spot, it's an unforgettable dining experience. A true gem!

Incredible fine dining experience with a Kiwi twist, all locally-sourced food and drink (which has had so much thought put into it) and a casual chef’s table set up so you can chat to Karl, Drew and the other diners. Food was fantastic, the presentation was stunning and local suppliers were highlighted throughout. The Green will genuinely impact the wider Waikato food scene, I feel proud that such a world-class experience is now on offer in my hometown.

Drove from Auckland and stopped here for lunch before heading to the caves. The taro leaves and meat, and chicken Curry was sensational! The BBQ lamb rib was also really tender, even if it was a bit fatty. I had to choose between Hamilton Gardens and this, and I'm glad I came here instead. That have a 2 choice combo or 5 choice combo, not listed in store but listed on their website. Great way to try a few things.

We found this hidden gem completely by chance, looking for a quick lunch in the city being just arrived in Hamilton as tourists. Turned out to be the perfect choice! The food was amazing, we tried almost everything they offered and as I was ordering a dessert, my husband took another portion of lamb with taro leaves. The price is really too good for the quality of the food, we paid 20$ a box with 5 different dishes and it was pretty enough to feed two people. If we could give it 6 stars, we would!

I was visiting from Australia and Hi5 Island Food in Frankton was incredible! The chop suey and chicken were absolutely delicious - packed with flavour and made with high quality ingredients. Portions were generous, prices were great, and the service was fast and friendly. This place is a real hidden gem, and I’m still thinking about that meal. I’d definitely go back!

Honestly, was a bit overwhelmed with what to get when me and my family went in today, so just got a bit of everything. But when i tell you the food that they serve here is absolutely AMAZING i honestly mean it. From the service, right down to their tasty dishes, absolute 5 star. Everything was fresh and easy as to eat, filled with flavour omg. Life felt better than ever after eating. Will definately be coming back ASAP. Expect us to be your new regular 😘(Panakeke was HUGE. absolutely worth every hype)

Went in at 3.30 pm and ordered a cassava, piece of chicken and chop suey.. yuck dry taste like it was from the day before! Chop suey was salty! What a yuck island food experience and I will never go back! What a disappointment!

The kai is delicious but their open hours are not always accurate like today for instance, its 2pm says its open but drove there and its closed. Waste my petrol.

It's a huge NO from me, first time and last time. $10 for NO MEAT in the chop sui, $12 for half empty container of raw fish, NO poki. Sad island shop, better off going to South Auckland where there's more variety.

I wanted to share my disappointment with my experience last night. We ordered a bread for starters which took 45 mins to arrive. 5 minutes after receiving our bread our mains arrived. When we ordered our mains (Lamb dish and Wild Beef dish), we were not asked how we would like our meat cooked eg:rare, medium rare etc, so when mine arrived I sent it back as it was too raw for my liking. Not once did a waitress/waiter come and ask if I would like more water the whole time we were there. I walked out very disappointed as we have been there several times before and thoroughly enjoyed our dinner experience. Not so this time :-(

The food was great, and the place was cozy. A good selection of steaks, and the presentation of the food is nice. The service was good when I visited.

If you're looking for something extra special then we recommend the Kitchen table for the full experience! Our chef was Joseph, and he was brilliant and super attentive all the while running the kitchen also. Its a 7 course meal worth every cent. From the generous portion sizes to the quality, taste and presentation, all with wine pairing for each dish. We also had a well educated waitress who never missed a beat, Highly recommend and we cannot wait to return. Thank you!

Dined with friends at the Matt Connell Wines Degustation dinner last night at Palate. Perfectly paired wines with the best tasting and perfectly presented food ever. Great friendly service by our waitresses and chef Matt himself. Get along people and support one of the best restaurants in Hamilton city.

Five stars allround, an exceptional dining experience. Food was fresh, flavoursome, bountiful and well cooked, the snapper wing & duck pastilla true highlights. The service was great, the location central and the restaurant is a comforting place to dine without being overpriced. A must visit destination if you're a foodie on holidays, an NZ foodie or a local. Thanks for a great experience Team Palate.

A shout out to Mat and his team at Palate for making my husband birthday a wonderful, memorable dining experience. This was our first visit since Palate moved and don't know why we waited so long to try it!! Every dish was cooked to perfection and the flavours worked beautifully together (oysters, grilled venison tongue, octopus, beef tartare, Merino Lamb, Greenstone Creek Sirloin steak and just has to finish with the delicious coromandel chocolate, liquorice ice cream, red wine poached local pear for dessert. Fabulous wine menu and a very friendly and knowledgeable Wine Connoisseur to help you choose the perfect wine match. From start to finish, it was a real treat. The service was friendly, efficient and attentive. The ambience great. Can't wait to go back!

Food is excellent. We've eaten at both the old location and the new - food was great both times. The service is friendly but can be very slow to get food, even when not busy. I liked the old location better (seemed like a much larger inside space with windows overlooking the river) but if the new location gets them more business then I don't blame them. I just hope they keep going as long as the food is good! Note: on the pricey side.

Food was delicious and every dish was presented in way that looked perfect on the plate. Both my husband and I tried food we had not eaten before and we were not disappointed. The wine selection offered up some great choices. The ambience of Palate also made dining out feel special.

We ordered as soon as we arrived and sat down. We loved every meal we ordered. My husband and I ordered a 3 course meal with drinks and by the end of the evening we were happily full from our dinner. Thank you to the staff for an awesome service and the chefs for all our meals. Highly recommended 👌 100%.

Couldn’t fault anything. The food and service was perfect. Bread, entree mains and desserts were all fantastic. Our steak was cooked to perfection, and bees cheeks err amazing. Our waitress was very attentive, even the seats at the table were super comfortable. 100% recommended.

Steak could’ve been better cooked, but honestly everything else slapped. Flavors were on point and I left super happy with the meal. The oysters were on the smaller side, but tasty. The clam chowder was super rich, with that buttery kick and deep mussel flavor coming through

Nice food and good atmosphere! We got the steak salad (fantastic) and the rump (okay!), I wasn’t the biggest fan of the style of the steak as it seemed like a compressed cut rather than a natural cut of rump, but still pretty good!

Tuesday 8th July. My wife and I went here for dinner. My wife tried the chicken pate, and I went with the garlic bread starter. Then the wife had the pasta main, and I went with a steak. Both of us weren't let down. My wife loved both her dishes, and I was the same. Chef there has only been one place that I have raved about the steak, NOW there is two. Cooked to perfection. As for our 2 young ladies who looked after us, Priscilla and Amelia, you were brilliant. All in all, one great restaurant. You just have to go here and try this place.

Food was flavoursome and well cooked, the staff were all really lovely and thorough, and the atmosphere was just right for my Nan who struggles to hear in loud settings. All together this made my Nan’s 85th birthday quite the treat. Thanks Furnace team!

Great at atmosphere & delicious food! Love the fireplace

We were out celebrating a double birthday and decided to share the signature dish Ribeye 500gr slow cooked steak .. we ordered some extra sides onion rings and seasonal veges . Everything came out together and looked delicious. We were not dissappointed from the first mouth full the steak was perfectly cooked tender juicy and with the right amount of charring . Both my partner and I had an absolute look of satisfaction every mouthful was divine the jus and Bearnaise sauce were great additions to the meal . Paired with a nice red wine and great service this was a very nice birthday treat . They got very busy and by 7 the restaurant inside was full . I can see why lovely Irish lass as a manager and fab team with a chef who knows their stuff . Brilliant meal we will be back

Flash looking food. Mixed taste. The Pulled pork Benedict was really tasty. French toast is probably the most complicated plate I have seen in a while, however flavours were a bit lacking. Smoothie was too sweet and really just a thickshake. Prices were up there for a cafe in suburbia. It is on the same site as a church so nothing that spectactular.

A good friend recommended Kirk Café to us while we were visiting Hamilton, and we’re so glad we went! There’s plenty of parking right outside, and the café itself has lots of seating options, both indoor and outdoor, perfect for groups or families. The portion sizes are generous and great value for the price, and the coffee was excellent. We ordered the chicken burger, big breakfast, and cheese & bacon toastie, everything was delicious! The big breakfast was indeed big, with nice, thick, and crispy bacon. The chicken burger smelled amazing and tasted just as good. Overall, we really liked the café, great food, good coffee, and a relaxed atmosphere. We’ll definitely be back the next time we’re in Hamilton! Bonus as they are on first table!

Interesting and creative menu. A real step up from standard cafe food. Smashed Avocado (pic attached, pork & fennel sausage was an extra) and the steak sandwich were excellent. Attentive, happy, & proud staff. Thanks for a wonderful lunch 🙏

I had the eggs Benedict with what the menu described as “lightly house-smoked dill salmon,” but it turned out to be a large chunk of cooked salmon fillet rather than smoked lox-style slices, which felt a bit odd for an eggs Benedict. The salmon was overcooked, dry, and lacked flavour, and the hollandaise sauce was also quite bland. My friend had the mushroom eggs Benedict, which was similarly lacking in flavour. We chose this place because of the great reviews but were disappointed with the food overall. The chai latte was very sweet even though we ordered it spicy, and the coffee wasn’t great either. Perhaps it was just an off day, as the atmosphere and service were okay. Overall, not worth the price.

Visited The Kirk Café in Hamilton and really enjoyed everything we tried — especially the sweet muffin, the pork & chorizo roll, and the samosa roll. You can tell the food is made fresh and with care. It is a little on the pricier side, but the quality definitely shines through. Cozy spot and tasty eats — worth a visit!

I recently popped into Kirk Cafe and finally tried their famous Steak Sandwich, and it absolutely lived up to the hype! The steak was perfectly cooked—tender, juicy, and seasoned just right—sandwiched between fresh bread with a perfect balance of relishes and fresh greens. It’s easily one of the best steak sandwiches I’ve had in a long time. But what truly made the experience memorable was the service. The entire staff was friendly, efficient, and clearly enjoyed their work, keeping the atmosphere upbeat. A special shout-out to the front counter lady (I wish I caught her name!)—she was so welcoming, patient while I ordered, and had a genuine smile that made me feel like a valued regular, even though it was my first time. Fast service with genuine warmth is hard to find, and Kirk Cafe nails it. Highly recommend for the food and the lovely people!"

Lovely little suburban cafe punching well above everyday cafe fare. Service was warm and welcoming. Coffee and chai latte were both excellent and our meals were delicious. Highly recommend.

I had a pretty hearty pasta meal but the tiramisu, I can’t exactly place the issue, it’s ok but somehow when you taste the mascarpone mix you have a buttery after taste; almost as it you have whipped butter mixed in it. I would deduct some point of lack of authenticity. Overall portions are good and flavour of the pasta is there.

Food always a delight, and great variety. The service, though, disappointing. Had to ask for wine glasses, had to ask for water, one doesn't feel the love and care. The guys might as well work in a petrol station with that attitude.

The nicest Italian restaurant we have tried in NZ so far! Generous quantities, savory food, correct prices. The steak with the creamy mushroom sauce was very well cooked and very tasty. The tiramisu was alright.

A really good Italian restaurant in Hamilton. It's a low key operation but the food is great. Meals are sized well (especially the main sized pastas) with plenty of fresh ingredients and excellently made sauces. The Ravioli Gorgonzola is balanced well, and the Tiramisu is nothing short of amazing. Wait staff were friendly and quick with the service. Highly recommended if you're looking for Italian cuisine in Hamilton.

Had dinner here while travelling from Australia and wanted to try a nice local restaurant. Very nice atmosphere, the staff were welcoming and kind. The Gorgonzola was very delicate and the gelato was refreshing. Thanks for a lovely dinner.

We searched for a pasta restaurant and turned out it was more. It’s a very traditional and authentic Italian restaurant that we couldn’t find in Auckland. We had ravioli and farfalle, both were super good. The lady who I guess is the owner offered us complimentary garlic bread when we were waiting for our pasta. The service was excellent, will definitely go again when we go to Hamilton next time. We enjoyed our dinner so much, oh and don’t forget to try the dessert.

We went a few weeks ago, but I don't want to stop writing my opinion about this place, since you arrive they welcome you very kindly with a big smile, they show you the menu and recommend you according to your taste, everything is designed for you to enjoy every moment there. We live in Tauranga and every time we return to Hamilton without a doubt this will be a mandatory stop to enjoy its flavors. We arrived when they were about to close and they let us pass, we were attended by a young curler, totally attentive, friendly and helpful! I lived in Italy and I missed its flavors, when I ate here I revived Italy! Thank you! The fresh and tasty ingredients! I definitely recommend it.

Our visit began with a stroll through beautiful gardens with statues illustrating the history of tea making. The tea plantations are in the distance. The Tea House is warm and welcoming with attentive staff, gentle classical music and restful views across green countryside. The High Tea was exquisitely presented. Each item was delicious and different. The tea was best quality. This place is for a special occasion!

Went here for a bridesmaid high tea. Was beautiful and so well arranged. The staff was very kind and gave us a seat to help our friend feel special. The food was lovely. I am vegetarian and loved the food . The gardens are very beaut and great for good pics on a sunny day

High tea at a tea farm sounds like a great idea. Nice enviornment and place to sit outside. Friendly and attentive service. However for $76 a person it is too much for what you get compared to other places. They are definitely going for a high class experience, however giving the high tea experience something more would be good. The tea you get is a single flavour so no tea tasting experience (which would of been cool given there vast collection). Limited caffeine free options but that is tough for a green tea farm. The food was tasty, and well presented. Unclear if it was all made in house. There is a good amount per person.

An amazing tea experience today. As a tourist who loves tea I would highly recommend this place. They have tea tasting 3 teas for $15. They also have a variety of teas, mostly oolong (their specialty) and black tea blends. There are also very nice tea pots and cups. The two ladies who helped us today were knowledgeable, welcoming and helpful. They explained how tea picking occurs as well as what makes each tea special. I would love to see a tea picking experience, that would be a great tourism boost for the place and could be done in a controlled way to ensure no contamination of the soil. Otherwise, I loved it today!

I had no idea this place existed just outside of Hamilton. Loved the service and the staff explained the different types of tea very well. Apparently the only place black tea grown and harvested in New Zealand. Went for a high tea with my boyfriend and we were quite happy. Such a zen place and delicious tea. Would definitely come back

We opted for high Tea and light lunch. The presentation was spot on, food was delicious and whole atmosphere was amazing. Sitting right in front of the Tea farm was an experience and my guests loved it. A must try and visit!

It was almost closing time, but we received excellent service. The tea was wonderful, and the dessert was absolutely delicious. Enjoying tea and conversation while taking in the beautiful view was the perfect way to end a lovely day. Finally, thumbs up to Sergio for his polite and outstanding service!

Such friendly staff. The service was excellent. The food was delicious and well presented. The atmosphere was lovely. We travel a lot for work and this place is at the top of our list for customer service. Thank you so much

Great food, quick to come out. service is great and with a smile.

I was a bit disappointed with my visit to Cinnamon Café. The food overall was quite bland and lacked flavour, which made the meal underwhelming. I also ordered a banana smoothie, but it didn’t taste fresh and was not enjoyable. The salmon on my bagel didn’t seem to be fresh either, which was a letdown given the café’s good reputation. Unfortunately, the experience didn’t live up to expectations.

A great selection of menu and cabinet food. Including great coffee and drinks selection too. I highly recommend the smoothies. Friendly staff and good location. I had a lovely lunch today with friends and will definitely be back for brunch.

Definitely a soul food Cafe. Interactive, pleasant and lovely staff made our lunch memorable today. Food is made with absolute artistry and you can taste the quality of ingredients in the freshness of your meal. Medium to high priced but worth every bite ☺️ Makes for a great spot to enjoy a healthy meal alone or with friends. Seared tuna, corned beef Reuben and fries, loaded bowl, carrot cake, chocolate brownie was our menu of choice.

So cute, and great customer service! My hot chocolate and cinnamon scrolls were really nice! We were sitting next to the kitchen, so it was a little loud, but it was still a really nice place to sit. There is so much natural light, which really makes it feel so open!

It’s a little out of the way, but we have made the trip out to Cinnamon twice recently. We are always struck by the staff. They are all really friendly and helpful, but relaxed too. It gives the place a great atmosphere. The cabinet always has something nice in it. Though we usually end up eating off menus. Pretty decent coffee and hot chocolates to be had here too. My daughter loves their curly fries.

The star of the evening was definitely dessert! Oh my goodness, do yourself a favor and order the Molten Chocolate Lava Cake. You will not regret it. Seriously, my husband and I have gone back to this place simply to order that dessert again. But, our first night there we had appetizers, dinner and dessert. We ordered the Cheesy Garlic Bread. Which we liked. My husband does not like soggy bread and we were glad to see it was nice and crispy and just the right amount of garlic. I ordered the spiced chicken salad and really enjoyed it. I ended up taking about half of it home and had a second meal from it. Hubby ordered the oven roasted chicken. It seemed to need a little more flavor, but it was still good, just not amazing. Then of course, the dessert, which was amazing and I can hardly wait to go back and have it again. Every part of it is delicious! We look forward to trying more of their mains the next time we go.

Food was great and the service is commendable. We went on a Friday evening so it was pretty busy, but we were accommodated very well. Have been here many times before for breakfast and lunch and the service has always been great and the food is really good and served quickly!

Unfortunately the place is really run down. The menu is boring & only 3 seafood dishes. It's pretty much a pub. The food we got was super tasty. The chefs cook really well, our steak was perfectly cooked. The cleanliness of the bathrooms was non existent they were really grotty. Patches on the floor to cover ? But the patches don't sit flush so is a trip hazard. It's a shame it's so run down as let's the place down.

Dinner at the Bank on Victoria St Hamilton. Very efficient service, we didn't wait that long for our meals ( on saying this conversation was good so time passed easily) We sat outside, which was very spacious. So, the Satay chicken was different still okay but I didn't eat it all. I was able to take it home Desserts were very delicious as you can see a variety. Would I go back ?👍

Visited 22/9/25. 4 of us. We shared 3 starters; 2 x 2 bao buns, so one each, and the cheesy garlic bread (4 slices). All were lovely and would order again. I had the lamb shank with mash and plenty of veg - very tasty. Husband was defeated by the 1kg of ribs and paid $6.90 extra for the chips - had to give some of them away. He complemented the chef as they were that nice. Son had a chicken burger which he said was ok. He was disappointed at the lack of chips on his plate - luckily he helped his dad eat the ribs. Other son had steak with coleslaw and chips. Steak was lovely. He complained of too much mayo on the coleslaw but I had a taste and think it was fine. Obviously, all quite full at this stage but had read the great review of the sticky date pudding, so ordered one with three spoons. This was the ideal ending to a great meal ! Would recommend and would visit on our return to Hamilton. Only negative, it was slightly chilly. Wish I had taken my coat.

The food was really yum and a great price aswell! The ribs were to die for, the yummiest and most tender ribs I’ve ever had. The only down fall was the fried chicken was a little bit over cooked so it was a little dry. The service was amazing, Thank you pearl for the wonderful service.

Table for 7 and all the food was spot on. The gnocchi was delicious. Wait time was short. Prices are very reasonable. Just a bit noisy and staff were average but still a very positive lunch experience.

We dined here for the first time on 27.8.25 and weren’t sure what to expect, but we were absolutely blown away. The service, food, and atmosphere were all excellent—it was such a lovely dining experience. What made it even more special was our server, Taylor. She was not only attentive to us but also so kind and patient with our 4-year-old son, taking the time to listen to his rambles even while clearly busy. That extra care meant so much to us and really added joy to our night. Thank you, Taylor—we truly appreciated it. It’s a shame her review card wasn’t working, as we would have loved to give her feedback directly, so we hope this message reaches management. The food was also a standout—10/10. I had the beef cheek dish, and the portion was generous and absolutely worth the price. The flavors were beautiful, and I even had to take some home because I couldn’t finish it all. All in all, we really enjoyed our first experience here and will definitely be back to try more dishes.

Food was 10/10, Bbq ribs fell off the bone & melt in your mouth. Hands down my fave ribs ever! Sirloin was also cooked to perfection 🤩 The loaf we had as a starter was also delicious. 100% will be back for more!

This was our very first time at Smith and McKenzie’s and it did not disappoint. When we arrived we were promptly seated and it was really lovely that they already had some colouring pens, colouring page and a lollipop for our 4yr old. We were given ample time to look over the menu before being greeted by our lovely waitress Taylor. She was super nice, bubbly and patient and never once rushed us. As we ordered items for the menu she also highlighted some of the dishes that were really good or popular which was quite nice. She interacted with our 4yr old son and he loved chatting to her and telling her his long story and she never rushed him and was so patient and interactive with him which was so lovely and such great service. Taylor we felt went over and beyond in her service to us as she apologised for taking a bit longer in getting to us to take our dessert order as they were a waitress down however we weren’t bothered as we were in no rush but the fact she wanted to make sure we were waiting too long was really nice. Taylor definitely made our first dining experience a really positive one so much that we will definitly be back again soon. Smith and McKenzie’s itself was a really nice restaurant that was reasonably busy when we came but it was still quiet enough to have a good conversation and not be in other peoples conversations at their tables. The place was nice and clean and the tables were promptly cleared and cleaned when customers had finished. Food wise we were impressed I ordered the lamp rump, my partner had the beef cheek and our 4yr old had the chicken tenders. The lamb was cooked perfectly along with the broccolini, beetroot and potatoes. The beef cheek was melt in your mouth and the miso potatoes, carrots etc all paired so well together and cooked so well. We both felt both dishes were big portions especially for the good price of the dishes, so much so we actually couldn’t eat the whole thing and were able to take the rest home in takeaway containers. Our 4yr old had the chicken tenders, chips and cole slaw and again the portion was too big that again we packaged up what our 4yr old couldn’t eat and brought it home. Desserts we had lemon meringue tart and the sticky date pudding. The lemon meringue was so delicious the lemon curb was amazing not too sweet or too sour or tart and the meringue was done beautifully. It came with coconut sorbet and biscuit crumb and I tell you the coconut sorbet was delicious and went so well with the lemon meringue and that’s coming from someone who’s isn’t usually a fan of coconut desserts. The sticky date pudding was delicious but did find that it was quite a big portion so couldn’t finish it all but for the price it was definitly value for money. Smith and McKenzie’s was a big hit for our family tonight and we will for sure be back very soon for more family dinners.

I had the most spectacular dinner experience. The signature steak was cooked to perfection, the chips were sublime and the salad was surprisingly AMAZING. I highly recommend the Lemon tart dessert. Renata, my server, treated me like a princess. She was attentive, knowledgeable and warm in demeanour. My food was brought to me as soon as it hit the bench.. I felt really looked after. The music was easy going and the fireplace makes the place feel cosy.

Amazing father's day dinner out with our party of 16, x5 of them Dads The special "surf n turf" was delicious and my sister in law commented on the ribs being the best she's had (she is a ribs connoisseur) she took the leftovers home with her The Monkey Bread dessert was hubby's fav and my lovely bartender made me a special diabetic friendly cocktail 🍸 that was not only delicious but did not spike my blood sugars, no easy task! The staff were incredible, especially our server Iasmine, the food 😍 Thank you for spoiling all the Dads

Steak was cooked to perfection! That rub though! Service was excellent, staff were friendly and attentive. The restaurant was immaculate, clean but very homely. Well done guys.

The place was slammed! They had a big birthday party up stairs and the restaurant was full as well. Our food was taking a while but before we even really noticed, our waitress came over and apologised and offered us a round of drinks on the house! Very impressive! It was my son’s birthday so they brought out a brownie with a candle for him as well. We had a great time! Thanks so much guys!

I had the cauliflower bites (on the snacks menu but plenty for a lunch). They were delicious - nice and crunchy. I also had a rose petal mocktail. Very tasty, but small for the price ($9) and very strong (I ended up taking a sip of water with each sip of drink to dilute it slightly). The ordering system on the tablets was nice and easy to work out, but it would have been nice if we could have selected our food and then sent the order through to the kitchen all at once instead of one item at a time.

Thank you for a great night. The team at The Helm held a great night for our big group booking. The meals came out delicious and everyone had a good time. The space was just what we needed.

Service here is on the ball. Very customer oriented, very fast. Super people. Establishment was very clean and well taken care of. The drinks appeared like lightning as soon as we ordered. The starters (mussels and roti with pork belly) were fantastic. Truly excellent. The mains, however, were just okay. Worth checking this place out and seeing what you find.

The staff were amazing. Friendly, warm and inviting when we arrived. Service with a smile and very helpful. The food was delicious and on point. Steak was so good and cooked to perfection and the mussels was delicious and mouth-watering. Very affordable and worth it. One of the best restaurants I've been to in Hamilton. Definitely recommend it for families with kids. They're very good at what they do and know how to accommodate to our wants and needs. Definitely hands down one of the best local restaurants in the Hamilton/Waikato region. One of the best places for a beautiful and delicious meal in Aotearoa. You get 5 Stars from me. Well Done The Helm Bar & Kitchen.

Went on a Wednesday night group of 16. Good atmosphere even though it was a quieter night. Staff were super lovely. You order at your table with a tablet which was interesting. You can also use tablet to see your bill and call waitstaff. Good quality food. Would recommend. Only recommendation to the business is the cheesecake came out a bit warm, would’ve been nicer colder.

Good atmosphere! Delicious dishes! The only thing that wasn't too good was pizza, all the rest were very nice. For those who like a jug of beer and some snacks, this is a great place.

What an amazing dinner we had at the Helm. The food and service and atmosphere was perfect. Eva was a fantastic waitress! My 10 yr old son loved his pizza! He said "this is like heaven!" And my 6 yr old daughter said her burger was a 10 out of 9! Lol. The ribs actually had meat on, not just bone and sauce. My Vietnamese salad was delicious esp with the pork belly on top! Yuuuuum!

Came for lunch, host was wonderful with service. Parking was some what difficult due to construction or else parallel parking. Dipping sauces for the chicken were amazing. Fish taco had a few bones. Sliders tasted good but there wasn't any sauce besides the sauce that was on the meat.

My partner and I recently visited Mexico Hamilton, and sadly, our experience was disappointing. While the service was genuinely good, the staff were friendly and attentive, the food didn’t meet expectations. The chicken and beef dishes were quite dry, lacked seasoning, and didn’t have much flavour. The churros were slightly burnt, which took away from the dessert experience. We ordered the $45 deal for two, but the total came to $90, which wasn’t clearly communicated and left us confused and frustrated. For the price, the portion sizes were quite small, and overall, it didn’t feel like good value. Although we still ate everything because we didn’t want to waste food, it left both of us feeling quite off afterwards, full, but not in a satisfying way. It just wasn’t an enjoyable meal overall. We do appreciate the staff’s kindness and service, but unfortunately, the food quality and value made the experience disappointing. Hopefully, this feedback helps improve future visits for other customers.

We ordered a few things and they all tasted good. We finished our meals and were satisfied overall. We did order the beef nachos and received chicken which was sorted straight away and was appreciated. Overall good vibes!

My wife and I had a wonderful dinner here on a Friday evening in October 2025. We are from southern California, and are very familiar with Mexican food, and we were very impressed with the authentic flavors, high quality ingredients, and lovely presentation of the food. We enjoyed the adobe chicken quesadilla, birria (braised beef) taco, squid taco, guacamole, and horchata to drink. My wife has Celiac, and they were able to safely accommodate her need for gluten free food. Highly recommend.

We ordered a variety of dishes. Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend the seafood plate,it was too oily, overly spicy, and not worth the price. On the bright side, the patatas bravas were absolutely the best! Whether with or without meat, they’re a must-try. Vegetarian options are available, too. The atmosphere is a vibrant mix of Spain 🇪🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽, with Latin American music adding to the experience. ✅ Recommended!

The fried chicken is really delicious and the pok belly taco con cola is tasty and worth the price. If you're into quesadillas this restaurant is also offering three different varieties of quesadillas. Although the chicken flavor is just normal. Too much chicken needs more flavouring. However, the service was good and the atmosphere of the restaurant was exceptional. It showcases the culture of Mexico and it's amazing to see the detailed paint wall all over the resto.

The food was meh and the service was meh. I just felt the for the price it was kinda average. The deserts were very underwhelming. Our deep fried ice cream was a bit underwhelming and didnt taste very nice

Excellent restaurant, it is worth a visit just to experience their amazing friendly service. Even when they are crazy busy, they make you feel welcome and provide the best personal service you will find in New Zealand. Their food was excellent, with simple dishes prepared perfectly. We highly recommend you pay them a visit asap.

The hot chocolate was divine. Loved the large brekky and poached eggs. Fun vibe, lovely service. Highly recommend if staying in Hamilton.

Great vibe in this gorgeous old world cafe it’s been around forever and have always had a good experience here. The service is fantastic, friendly and professional. Loved the food and although we ordered tea this time the coffee is fantastic too.

The best steak sandwich I have ever had to date ! I am coming back for this again! The pasta was ok, a bit on the dry side a little more oil and I would have enjoyed it more. And maybe some chilli oil instead of dry chilli

The interior design offers a delightful surprise, especially with a large window that beautifully divides the indoor and outdoor spaces! Ambiance: 5/5 Service: 5/5 Coffee: 4/5 Food: 5/5 A perfect spot for weekend gatherings with friends! Highly recommended!

Delicious! We had a really lovely afternoon coffee and cake here today. Thank you 🙏

We happened to come back here after 10 years of being away and was blown away by exceptional service by Tamati - haven’t had service like that since way back!! The girls behind the counter were also lovely and food was Amazing - still have that Aglio spaghetti on the menu which was amazing! We’ll be back for sure!

Good for a quick lunch and way better than lunch from a mall outlet. There are better places nearby, though. An interesting feature of the menu is the additional charges to make the dish hot, very hot etc. I had a chicken vindaloo, and while it was nice enough, it didn't have the hot intensity I usually associate with vindaloo, and I've just worked out why...I didn't pay extra to have it made hot. As I said above, there's a place nearby who include a drink in their $10 lunch deal so I won't come back here.

I went there at about 7:30 pm and i was the only one in there. Nevertheless the service was very kind and welcoming. The food tasted very good as well. Price was also very good for what i got. I would recommend to check out.

Great Kashmiri food. The hosts Madhu and Ramesh are excellent.

Food very nice, however a little different from the presentation I was expecting. Slow service but worth the wait.

Came here on a quiet night so it seemed very spacious. The menu is large with a good selection of starters and mains. The order was taken in good time and drinks were brought quickly. Food took a little long but it was worth it! Good quality curry and at the exact heat I wanted. I'm sure I will be back again!

Lovely staff but not so lovely food. Kids ordered butter chicken and was that much grated carrot in it and barely any chicken. Was also too spicy for either to eat and the lady claimed no spice was put in - very untrue! The rest of the dishes had very dry meat (4 different dishes). Naan was great though! But that's about it..

The ambience was quite good. Chicken Tikka and Nasi goreng was good. Chicken briyani was very average, was more of masala and did not taste like an authentic briyani. Sweet Lassi was very watery, the curd taste was missing and it tasted bad. I have had Hot and Sour chicken soup couple of times here, I always loved it but this time soup also tatsed okay. Overall the food experience was average. If tatse standards are always maintained at the same level, it would have been a good experience.

A very nice authentic Italian restaurant. We started with prawns in garlic cream sauce. Mains of veal scallopini & lasagna. A lovely red to match. Great service & lovely atmosphere

My family came here for mine and my brother's birthday lunch and it was so beautiful. There was about 25 of us and the meals still didn't take long. The customer service was absolutely awesome and welcoming. The food was so Devine and there was enough space for all of us, we weren't squashed up. It was such a great Italian experience. Thank you for having us.

I quite enjoyed dining here. Food was hearty and nice. Spaghetti was good but not al dente. Garlic bread was good but dough not that really fluffy type. I’m being picky though, because I would go back.

The food, service and atmosphere were all fantastic. The (normal) prices were really reasonable. We found the portion sizes perfect if you're having multiple courses. Highly recommend, will definitely go again.

We dinned in an outdoor booth which was fun and comfortable. Really enjoyed our yummy meals! Pasta was so delicious, mussels were great! Desserts were also yummy! We also ordered some cocktails too! Would definitely recommend🥰

Great service from the time of arriving till the time we left. Authentic Italian. Great atmosphere. The Italian music was nice. Good food. We had clam pasta, calzone pizza, fries and lemonade. Nearer to the corner than Google maps says.

Very good experience. The staff were so friendly, polite and helpful! The entrees were delicious! Spaghetti, gnocchi, risotto and lasagna were awesome! The parmigiana was a bit expensive and small. The dessert was so good!

Great pub experience. All the classics done really well. Staff are friendly and nothing seems like too much trouble. They love their product and dont mind giving advice about it even trying different beers and ciders. We went on Wednesday night which was "Burger Special" a burger, fries, and anything that is on tap for $29. We had one of each burgers, fish, chicken and beef. They were all of a great size and you could not fault them. Beef was especially juicy and not dry or over cooked. The same could not be said of the pork belly bites, although it had a great sweet sauce the bites were dry and stringy. The cheesy baguettes were amazing and a great starter. The food was good but the staff were better. The made it very homely and especially Leslie, he made it a night to remember. His customer service is second to none, both professional and welcoming with great knowledge but not pushy. Great place with background music, plenty of televisions to watch. Also having a bottle store so you can purchase your drink of choice is a massive plus. Great place with groups large or small. We will be back.

Best kids menu in Hamilton. Friendly, attentive staff, unique building with exposed beams, stained glass and covered outdoor seating - great lunch spot to enjoy a cold one. We ordered a pizza, overloaded fries and our daughter had the cherrios bento box. Great value for money and something for everyone on the menu.

Popped in for a quick stop lunch, apparently Wednesday is 2 for 1 pizza so we had chicken and cranberry and a margherita. Quick friendly service, nice music playing, sat out in the garden bar which is covered over winter and nice and warm. Tried a non-alcoholic Black Doris Plum Cider and my husband tried the Good George Lager, the advised match for his pizza. Lots of parking around the side and side entry. New menu launched today apparently

Great place, with good basic pub food and a wide selection of drinks (including cider!). Brewery tour was great, and Leslie was a very informative and engaging guide.

You guys should be so proud of your staff. Our family had dinner here tonight. Food was great. Service was outstanding. The staff look happy and it pays off on how they interact with the customer's.

Wow fantastic totally recommend and our waiter is the best iv had! 100% you rock! The food was yummy ( tacos , burgers & pizza ) beer is always good thank you from a 13 year old party!

Great venue for beer lovers, I ordered a delicious IPA along with the big platter for 5 of us, a good deal. This place is well decorated, with a small shop at the entrance. It was a Sunday lunchtime and it was pleasantly quiet, so service was nice and fast. Staff is courteous and ready to serve. The outside area seems to be great at summer time. Gotta get back there then.

Wow! A very impressive restaurant that is well worth the money. Every dish we tried we loved from Tuna ceviche, mushroom pasta, beef cheeks to pork belly. Every dish was spectacular with fabulous presentation. Highly recommend

This was a lovely little cafe/ restaurant we stopped by on the way to Tauranga. It was a little hard to get the waiters attention but staff were all nice and friendly. Good pizza and pasta - would love to visit again!

The food at this place is still just as good as I remembered, full of flavor and consistency that keeps it worth coming back for. Unfortunately, the service was a real letdown this time. The staff felt inattentive and slow, which took away from what could have been another great dining experience.

We visited Camrosa for the first time and were absolutely blown away. The setting is so beautiful, the staff were genuinely lovely to deal with, and the coffee was spot on. The food was 10/10 – fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend Camrosa to anyone looking for a great dining experience!

The place is an absolute dream. The vibes are awesome, the food is awesome and our server was awesome too!!! We were roughly 18 guests and we were catered with professionalism, top tier! Must visit ❤️❤️

Visiting Hamilton and my children recommended lunch at Camarosa. I'm super glad we did. What a beautiful place to be. Right from the moment we arrived we were greeted warmly and shown to our table. We had the exact amount of time needed to select our drinks and food. We weren't rushed and we weren't waiting ... exact! Drinks arrived and this is where the outstanding and thoughtful service super impressed me. The logo on my glass of prosecco was placed perfectly centered towards me, the pouring of the sprite into the glass was done in such a way that just made us feel special. Seriously! Fish Crudo to start. Wow is all I can say. Perfectly balanced flavours and every mouthful just left you wanting more. Then we shared the Mushroom Parpadelle, twice cooked Pork Belly and a delicious Camarosa Pizza. It was ALL good and delicious. It was also ALL gone in 16 minutes. For us, that's a sign that we just wanted to savour the flavours, no time for conversation, just pure enjoyment eating beautiful food. The atmosphere was beautiful. It's always great to hear the music just enough that allows us to speak quietly and hear each other. We love the decor - it's always interesting dining with a builder, he's always got something to say as he checks everything out, and he was impressed! I understand the water feature at the entrance wasn't at its usual flow so that was a bit of a shame to miss that. Also, I enjoyed the spacing between the tables - it felt private in an open space. Overall, 100% on all aspects of our dining experience. Thank you for having us and we look forward to coming back to enjoy your regular menu.

Too dark, make us fall to sleep. They remove most of the main from original menu for first table. However, the pizza taste good.

We came to Hamilton for the Moana Vs Chief games. We came 2-3 hours early so we parked up and explored Hamilton City and came across the Chiefs House haha where we had a Lovely Experience at The Speight’s Ale House Hamilton. We had a great dining experience at The Speight’s Ale House. I visited with my cousins, aunty and uncle. We ordered the Chicken Burgers with a side of hot chips and creamy aioli x3 – absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection. My aunty and uncle had the classic fish and chips with tartare sauce, which they really enjoyed. To go with our meals, we had two refreshing pineapple juices – one with pulp and one without. The presentation of the food matched exactly what was shown on the menu, and the atmosphere of the place was warm, welcoming, and relaxed. A truly enjoyable meal in a lovely setting – would definitely recommend!

the service alone was enough for the 5 star rating staff were so friendly , multiple team members come to check if we needed anything else and also checked in about how our food was etc The tablet service was impressive , we have them in Auckland but yet to come across one that we could pay from the table !! It was super easy to use and was a great way to check what we had added and total costs and overall was a really efficient way to dine in and allows staff to tend to other jobs The food was tasty !! Very generous potion sizes and well presented , I’d say you get great value for money with the amount of food they serve was happy with how fast the food arrived too The venue was clean , well organised and had the coolest chairs / bar stools , enjoyed the fact it was nice and quiet in the dining area music was at a good level and overall will be saving this place to re visit when we next come down Thanks so much would highly recommend

Nice meal. Good selection of beer. Standard pub grub menu. Use the new "iPad" menu to order. Went on a pub quiz night and staff were pretty overwhelmed Food and drinks were delivered fast and good. Overall good but service after meal had been delivered.

Electronic menu seems progressive, but didn't impress us at all. It says, we're not interested to engage or speak with our customers. The pup was empty. And stayed empty. Maybe that's why. The food was OK, but couldn't rescue our overall impression of soullessness. The atmosphere was simply dreadful! We won't be back.

Very friendly staff, we liked the system of ordering our meals using a tablet menu which was very friendly to use

If you want a quiet meal on a Wednesday night, most probably not the brat day of the week to go as they have a social event booked, which takes up the main area and a bit noisy But the bar and staff etc are great otherwise

We had a birthday function here last night and I just want to say a huge thank you to Phil and the team. The function room was absolutely perfect, the kai was delicious, and every single one of my whānau had an amazing time. The staff were all so lovely, efficient and welcoming their manaakitanga really stood out and made the night extra special. A big, big thank you from myself and my whānau. We’ll definitely be back for more functions in the future!

Babaganush Turkish Restaurant & Café - Our Absolute Favourite Place! My boyfriend and I have been visiting Babaganush Turkish Restaurant & Café (formerly Kapadokya) ever since it opened in its new location. Honestly, it has become our absolute favourite spot in Hamilton. Every time we go, we are blown away all over again by how beautiful, welcoming, and amazing this place truly is. The atmosphere is stunning, the décor, lighting, and little details create such a warm and authentic vibe that makes you feel at home. It’s the kind of restaurant where you can sit back, relax, and just soak in the beauty around you while enjoying incredible food. Speaking of food… every single dish we’ve tried has been outstanding. The chicken shish is always perfectly grilled and full of flavour, the schnitzel is crispy and comforting, and every plate comes with fresh, colourful salads that balance everything out so well. Portions are generous, filling, and always leave us satisfied. We’ve even topped our meals with dessert, and it’s just the perfect finishing touch. We love this place so much that we keep going back; it’s not just a one-time visit kind of restaurant, it stays with you and makes you excited to return. The staff are always so kind and attentive, making the whole experience even more special. If you’re looking for delicious, authentic Turkish food in a stunning setting with exceptional service, Babaganush is the place to be. It’s become such a special spot for us, and we can’t wait for all the memories we’ll keep making here!

Delicious food, beautiful ambience and good portions.

We had the Sultan Mezze Platter and it was delicious. The service was good and staff were very friendly.

Absolutely amazing food! Filling and delicious

We rocked up to this joint before opening hours - the server kindly offered to take our order anyway. He was very nice and friendly. The kai was very flavourful and big big portions! Definitely good value for money. Highly recommend!

Had a quick yet great lunch while visiting Hamilton. Place was quite busy with locals - always a good sign. Service was excellent. Food - very good! Calamari meze was superb - calamari were very nicely fried, tender and juicy. Vegetarian moussaka and babaganush were delicious too. And of course, a cap of proper Turkish coffee with baklava is a must!

Exceeded my expectations. The staff were extremely friendly, professional and efficient. The food we ordered all came out at the same time and within 15 minutes. All of our meals were absolutely delicious. Admittedly I ordered pizza, which I don’t believe is very Turkish, however it was cooked perfectly. Thin and crispy, not too many toppings, fresh ingredients. 10/10 Would Babaganush again.

My friends and I went here for brunch on a Saturday. As expected, the place was quite busy and full of customers. Luckily, we got seated in one cozy corner after about 5 minutes. After our orders were taken, our coffees came in 20minutes. However, the rest of our orders were served after an hour. We did not complain though because we tried to understand and we really wanted to try their menu. I was wondering if all the diners had to wait for an hour like us. I hope the restaurant would try to improve on this aspect of their service. Because If I am a hungry customer I think I couldn't wait for that long. The food was tasty and well presented. Apparently, the pancake was not the traditional and fluffy one we imagined. But it's really nice and unique, a must-try.

Very friendly staff. Seemed like the UN with a very multicultural staff. The location is wonderful. Definitely popular with the ladies in the afternoon. We stooped to have coffee and beer while we were on a walk along the mighty and spectacular Waikato river.

Hayes Common offers a light and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed breakfast. The scones are exceptional—fresh, buttery, and perfectly paired with their house-made spreads. If you’re looking for something lighter, the yoghurt is a standout, with a minty finish and beautifully presented with toasted coconut and seed toppings. The menu leans heavily toward egg-based dishes, so if you’re an egg enthusiast, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Overall, Hayes Common delivers a delightful experience with quality ingredients and a cozy vibe that keeps you coming back.

We had brunch on a very busy day. Reserved a table and was called back around 10 mins. Venue is close to the river and playground, we had a short walk while waiting. We specifically request a table which was shaded, however we were placed in a partially shaded table, making us seated away from each other just to avoid the sun which was shining at the middle of the table, Before ordering, we requested to move once we saw a table wherein customers we just finishing and getting ready to leave, but was declined because the lady cleaning the table said it's already reserved which we think were not really reserved yet since customer hasn't left yet. Anyway ordering food and hot chocolate drink was served within 10 to 15 mins. Food was good.

Friendly, welcoming staff. Our first time dining here and was not disappointed! Seated and served water which always makes me happy. They have table service, not many cafes do anymore so it was nice. It was busy but food didn't take long. Coffees were perfectly made. My grilled eggplant salad was so tasty and filling, best salad I've had in a long time. Hubby had scrambled eggs on toast with bacon (didn't get a pic). Large serving and delicious. We look forward to going back again.

Absolutely loved this place! Such a great spot to eat, and the coffee was absolutely delicious, definitely one of the best I’ve had in a long time! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a really relaxed vibe. From the moment we walked in, the staff greeted us with big smiles and genuine friendliness, which instantly made us feel at home. What stood out to me the most was how well the team worked together, you could see the staff laughing, chatting, and really enjoying what they do. You don’t see that everywhere, and it made the whole experience even better. The food was fantastic! I had the chili scrambled eggs with thick-cut bacon, and wow, perfectly cooked, packed with flavour, and beautifully presented. Every bite was delicious, and I’d go back just for that alone! As someone whose job takes me all over the world every week, I’ve tried a lot of cafés and coffee spots, and I can honestly say this would be in my top 10 coffees worldwide. Smooth, rich, and absolutely spot-on , a real standout, so well done to the barista, and whoever sources those coffee beans! Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area. Amazing coffee, fantastic food, and such a welcoming team. Can’t wait to come back!

A Delightful Brunch Spot Hayes Common is a charming restaurant café nestled in a quiet, friendly neighbourhood — the perfect place for a relaxed brunch. I ordered the Eggs Benedict, served on perfectly toasted English muffins with rocket hollandaise and roast mushrooms. The flavours were beautifully balanced, rich yet fresh, making each bite sumptuously delicious. My strong, full-bodied long black coffee paired wonderfully with the meal. For dessert, I indulged in a perfectly baked pain au chocolat — crisp, buttery layers with just the right amount of chocolate. The staff were attentive, warm, and accommodating, making the experience even more enjoyable. Calm and inviting, with a welcoming vibe that suits both solo visits and gatherings. Vegetarian options are available, and dietary adjustments are happily accommodated. It’s also kid-friendly, with plenty of easy parking nearby. A brunch here is a treat worth repeating.

Had the mince on toast, and it was probably the best breakfast I’ve had on our NZ trip so far. Amazing! Also the deluxe hot chocolate did not disappoint. We’ll probably come back again tomorrow morning before leaving Hamilton.

Loved my meal. The pancakes were the absolute best. My friend had eggs benny but their eggs were far too cooked. Luckily they ordered fries though which they liked

Having embraced fifty plus years on the globe, I must commend Markyle's team for preparing the most exceptional and YUM,YUM Thai BEEF salad I have ever encountered. My compliments to the chef!

Food was so delightful 😊 The chef was very accommodating. If you are ever in Hamilton, this place is a great place for breakfast..

Super recommend! We went there for lunch on a Saturday at 11am. It was a relaxed and calm atmosphere (which we really appreciated) and the service was amazing. The food and drinks were perfect and reasonable prices. We both got the big breakfast and they were delicious! Definitely will be back ☺️

Love it I enjoyed being there I recommend the pancakes so yummy I'll go back again and try something else. The eggs bene was tasty as well. Part from that good hospitality and amazing vibe.

The creamy mushrooms were incredible. Best breakfast I’ve had in New Zealand so far.

First impression restaurant was clean and I was greeted and seated to my table.I had the chicken fried rice from the large menu. Generous portion served hot. Free bottle of water. Flavour was good.Had to wait for the staff to get off her phone to check me out at the counter.Another staff noticed and checked me out. Will return to try other food on the menu.

Amazing food and even better service. Large variety of menu options and every single one we tried was delicious. The honey duck and salmon tartare are a must have!! Great value for money. Be warned that the medium is still quite hot

I'll start with THE BEST THAI IN TOWN. (My opinion of course) The pictures are of eaten meals but they are so good that we got our munch on and then remembered 😂 I had the sizzling lamb and my partner had the red curry tofu and for a starter we had the crispy vegetables. All were executed extremely well and reminded us of Thailand. Definitely a 5 star rating from us. By the way the wine pours are decent 👌 Well done and I highly recommend 👏

First time and incredibly impressed. Firstly service 10/10 our young waitress Maddy was amazing! So friendly, helpful and efficient. Secondly food 😋 delicious adventurous tasty spicy and quick. Definitely a regular customer from now on. Thank you

We took out young kids with us to celebrate our anniversary at the restaurant. We were served super fast and the food was the best we've had in NZ in 7 years. Amazing food and service. Definitely will be coming back for more.

I took my parents out for lunch and the food and service was amazing. Our waiter was super attentive and friendly. Best Thai restaurant in Hamilton by far. I’ll definitley be back!

Very nice setting and friendly staff. They should have checked the meat options with us when they took our order but overall the experience was satisfactory. A bit on the expensive side but the portions and bountiful ingredients are worth it.

Drove 1.5 hours to go. Service was wonderful. Food great. Dessert was a shared dessert for two but could feed 4 easily. The show when dessert came to table was amazing. Worth the 3 hour round trip. Liked how restaurant and bar were separated.

I was surprised how good the food was there. Really fresh and flavourful! Again, everything was FRESH - veggies, fish, every tiny slice of lettuce👌 i appreciate it! We took market fish, fish and chips and desserts. The place itself isn't particularly vibey as for the atmosphere... Clean and tidy though!

I had a lovely dining experience with my family today. The food was delicious, and the service was fantastic. Thanks to Caelyn and the other wonderful staff! ❤️

We live near the Wayward Pigeon and are regular customers. Today we visited and ordered a garlic loaf, two Steak and Fries, and a chowder. The garlic loaf and the chowder, which we always enjoy, were absolutely tasty as usual. However, one of the Steak and Fries was far too chewy to eat. I cut the steak into around 10 pieces, but had to spit out 7 of them as they were too tough to chew. I was a little bit disappointed today.

Realy lovely waitress was kind and helpful. Unfortunately the 1x basil pizza and 1x garlic bread took forever to be ready. The price was extremely dishonest for the time, portion size and average taste.

Dinned in with a shared platter, expresso martini and dessert. All 3 were yummy! Prices are pretty reasonable, table service was awesome, food came out quick, staff are friendly and welcoming. Atmosphere is really nice. Only wish this restaurant was located more central in Hamilton cause I'd dine here more often if it was. Came back again, service and food amazing as always!!!!! Such a great eatery! Will always recommend dining at Wayward Pigeon! New photos of food we ordered over lunch!

Had a booking for a birthday in the main dining area. Staff were friendly and great host ! Our food came out quick and we didn’t have to wait long! Plenty of parking and nice atmosphere in the restaurant. Sadly as a group of 26 only two people actually enjoyed the food. We were served cold/warm food. The kids burgers were still pink. Schnitzels were over cooked and hard. Majority of the food the group felt it was re-heated and tasteless. None of us would come back again after that experience especially when we spent around $800 and didn’t enjoy it.

The food was tasty, it came out real quick. We ordered food that we could share. Grandma doesn't usually like, but she loved the fried chicken, empanada and slaw. We will be back. Thank you, my puku is very full. Everyone eas so nice. Great atmosphere.

My partner and I had an amazing experience here! From the moment we walked in, the service was warm, welcoming, and genuine. The staff were friendly and attentive, creating such a comforting atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The food was absolutely incredible, full of flavour, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to perfection. You can tell it’s made with heart. The portions were generous too; we only took home half an empanada, one chicken wing, and a bit of salad because we were just that full and satisfied. And the churros… easily the best we’ve ever had, soft, golden, and perfectly paired with their sauces. Compared to other places, this meal stood out in every way. As someone who’s half Filipino, I really value food that’s made with soul and warmth, and this place delivered that completely. It left my heart so full and happy, the way good food should. We can’t wait to come back again. Thank you, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina, for giving us such a beautiful experience filled with flavour, care, and genuine hospitality.

Our top picks were the scotch fillet and empanadas. The dipping sauces added an extra layer of flavor, making it all absolutely delicious! Swift service and wonderful staff - highly recommended! We'll definitely return.

I have been here multiple times and I still can't fault it. The service is top notch, the atmosphere is awesome and the FOOD IS AMAZING. Take your pick cos everything is good esp the nachos. Portions are huge too!

We dropped at in the peak time of 7.30pm on a Friday night & were met immediately by staff then seated in a beautiful booth. The service was timely & not pushy, the Kai was beautiful, fresh, hot & with a good amount of spice. We really enjoyed the staff, loved the atmosphere & will be back again. Thanks so much!!

The best micheladas in New Zealand, hands down. Every sip bursts with authentic Mexican flavor. Bold, refreshing, and perfectly spiced, it’s like a mini trip to Mexico in a glass. Absolutely incredible!

Had a fantastic time and the food was amazing. Good portion size. Take home box provided if you dont get to eat it all. Very very friendly staff and quick to deliver the meal. The atmosphere was very welcoming and family oriented. Would definitely eat there gain. Also... the margaritas were delicious.

I have done this place a huge injustice by living in Hamilton for 10 years without knowing it existed!!! The interior resembles a real Italian trattoria, and the ambience is authentic. The food was brilliant, and we tried traditional pizza, bolognese snd parmigiana. Gelato and tiramisu rounded up the wonderful experience. We will definitely be back!

It was a great experience from start to finish. I had the Fettuccine Agli Scampi, and it was perfect. The prawns were massive, and there was a good amount of them. The rest of my table had the Lasagna and Gnocchi Alla Blolgnese. They were also great. This is my new favorite restaurant.

If you’re craving authentic Italian food that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy, this restaurant is a must-visit. Every meal feels like a special occasion, and you’ll find yourself coming back again and again to experience the magic of truly authentic Italian cuisine.

Visited, this week, for the first time. Can't believe I hadn't been before, apparently it's been around for close to 20 years! We arrived early and got the last table available on what we expected was a quiet Sunday night, but it was otherwise fully booked. We received a brief history and geography lesson from Bruno while we ordered (and before it was busy). Food was amazing, we need to go back to knock off a few more items from the menu. Food was amazing, so authentic. And the gelato for dessert was big enough to share and delicious. Highly recommend and will be back!

A shot in the dark, to find a good meal in a place previously untried. How well Chef Marco and his team at the Caffe Centrale Italian Restaurant responded to the challenge. A piquant and hot cappuccino to start, and cold Corona poured at the table while we made our selections. Melt in the mouth aromatic garlic bread, and a serving of nine succulent mussels in the shell, in a copious amount of a tomato sauce, clearly fresh and made on site, to tantalize the tastebuds and spark thoughts of a country villa. Mains were a double delight of individually baked lasagne, creamy and filled with beef and mozzarella. The pasta was firm but perfect, the fillings to die for, and the smell alone had me salivating. Plates scraped clean, constant appropriate checking from the friendly and efficient staff, and generous sized portions that left no room for desert. How to compliment the team, and their excellent chef? All I can say is thank you, the meal was a triumph, and an honour to consume. Highly recommended. For those inclined a full bar is available.

Absolutely beautiful place. The atmosphere is very Italian with Italian staffs. We ordered the daily special ragu di cervo (deer meat) with spaghetti and it tasted rich and creamy. Lasagna and caprese salad also taste very good. It’s my first time trying caprese salad and the fresh mozzarella tastes like a savoury tofu, the entire salad is so refreshing and I would love to have it again.

My favorite Italian restaurant in Hamilton! The staff and owners are friendly and welcoming. This lovely restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with well priced, absolutely delicious meals and drinks. Must try restaurant in Hamilton:)