Waiheke Island. A magical getaway, a wine-lovers paradise, the perfect wedding destination. Glorious beaches, dreamy wineries and a superb spot to simply revel in nature’s beauty. No matter what motivates you to jump on the 35-minute ferry ride to Waiheke, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.
That, and a next-level foodie scene. And because we know your itinerary will be hella packed, we’ve gone ahead and rounded up some of the best and most delicious restaurants on Waiheke Island so you can keep the hanger at bay and focus on dialling into that good life.
Waiheke Distilling Co
258 Cowes Bay Road, Waiheke Island
Image credit: Waiheke Distilling Co | Facebook
is packing a big punch with its range of craft distilled spirits. While it started life as an award-winning gin distillery, the team at Waiheke Distilling are now crafting next-level vodka using local, botanical ingredients such as horopito and kawakawa. Smack bang between Man O' War and Passage Rock, the relaxed garden bar offers classic drinks, innovative cocktails and fresh food (don't skip the Napoli-inspired fried pizza!) inspired by the surrounding gardens. If you find yourself car-less on the island you can even book transportation to the distillery through their site. Yaaas.
Too Fat Buns
4/118 Ocean View Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Island
Image credit: Too Fat Buns | supplied
Sometimes you just want to chow down on a hearty burger of epic proportions. Lucky for us then that Waiheke is also home to , the island's answer to gourmet burger cravings that will satisfy all comers. Look for the queue out of the door nestled off the main drag in Oneroa and you'll know you're in the right spot. This joint prides itself on fully loaded burgs whatever you're craving (just check out the Man Bun for some inspo), they also sling cracking veggie and vegan burgs so no one has to miss out. Score.
Akitō Eatery
153 Ocean View Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Island
Image credit: Akitō Eatery | supplied
Sitting squarely at the end of the main drag in Oneroa, plant-powered has cultivated an excellent reputation for breakfast and brunch eats thanks to its inventive and alternative menu. The name alludes to the eatery’s passion for slow food with each dish prepared with love and attention, and it shows. While not an entirely vegan haunt—though you can request vegan-friendly or gluten-free versions—Akitō makes the humble vegetable the star of the show. We’re suckers for the mushroom omelette with confit garlic mushrooms, kale, parmesan and thyme. This spot also gets extra points for being dog-friendly. Cute.
Soho Street Food
At Soho Family Vineyards, 74 Onetangi Road, Waiheke Island
Image credit: Soho Street Food | Instagram
Venture to and not only will you happen upon wines named after pop culture icons (Westwood rosé anyone?), you'll be met with the incredible Asian fusion aromas of helmed by Waiheke-famous, Chef Deb. Inspired by Deb's travels through South East Asia, the dishes—which include spicy tuna tartare with puffed furikake, giant black tiger prawn satay skewers, szechuan and star anise duck tacos, and the not-to-be-missed bahn mi—are punchy and flavourful.
Deb is also a private chef and bookable for private functions so if you've got yourself a stellar location and you'd like your food to come to you, book Soho Street Food, stat.
The Oyster Inn
124 Ocean View Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Island
Image credit: The Oyster Inn | supplied
Opened back in 2012, The Oyster Inn has proven itself to be an island institution. Now owned by Josh and Helen Emett, you can rest assured this Waiheke eatery will be slingin’ mouthwatering dishes for years to come. Speaking of, their menu is delightfully unique, from free-range chicken karaage with soy and chilli caramel to octopus and gochujang crumpets; oyster rolls on soft house-made brioche, to salt-baked celeriac, and beer battered fish punctuated with triple cooked chips and a generous accompaniment of crushed peas. Nab a possie on the balcony come sundown for some of the best views in the village, this is definitely one of the best restaurants on Waiheke Island.
Three Seven Two
21 The Strand, Onetangi, Waiheke Island
Image credit: Three Seven Two | Armelle Frimpong
A multi-award winning, hatted restaurant, , has won the hearts of many a foodie and with an enviable possie right on Onetangi Beach, this makes a pitstop here an absolute no-brainer. Seasonal and inspired, it’s a particular favourite among seafood lovers although they also do a pretty bitchin’ marg—chilli-spiked no less. Lip-smacking smoked fish dip, baked oysters and raw Kingfish champion the ocean offerings but vegetarians will be just as happy here with the likes of mushroom dumplings and chickpea crepes with cashew and kale curry, and coconut and green apple sambal.
Tantalus Estate Vineyard
70/72 Onetangi Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island
Image credit: Tantalus | Instagram
Yes, is famed for its wine (and rightly so) but its kai is just as exceptional. Like, Trust The Chef-level exceptional. Speaking of, delve in and you'll be treating your tastebuds to the likes of Mangawhai mushroom tartlets, butternut waffles, Alibi pale ale battered oysters, crispy pork belly, chocolate chestnut cubes, yuzu ice cream sandwiches and the best end to any meal—a hearty cheeseboard. Top tip: ask the waitstaff to explain the cheeses. Each has their own backstory and knowing it makes the tasting even more scintillating.
The ‘HEKE
64 Onetangi Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island
Image credit: The 'Heke | supplied
Perched overlooking Onetangi Road past Tantalus and Stonyridge, prides itself on simple, tasty food done well—think wood-fired pizzas, whipped smoked Kahawai and the already-famous smash burger. Owners the Izzards brought their passion for whisky to the table while the Hindmarshes chased it with a beer, and together they’ve created a haven for locals that is rooted in whānau. Everyone is welcome at The ‘HEKE—head on over and they will greet you with a big grin, a cold drink and a warmth that has nothing to do with the famous Waiheke micro-climate.
Fenice Cafe & Restaurant
122a Ocean View Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Island
Image credit: Fenice Cafe and Restaurant | supplied
For a little slice of Italy and the Med in the heart of Oneroa village, head for . Definitely one of the best restaurants in Waiheke, always a good time and with epic food to match we can't rave about this place enough. Cosy up by the outdoor fireplace in winter and retreat from the sun under umbrellas in summer, this spot is like a welcoming little oasis at any time of the year. The sister eatery of famed local winery Mudbrick, you'll find an extensive wine list with more than a few exclusive drops. Pair this with a delicious seasonal menu and a dessert list to die for—their tiramisu is known to be one of the best in Auckland—and you might just come back to Fenice a few times during your stay. We speak from experience.
Ki Māha
1 Fourth Avenue, Onetangi Beach, Waiheke Island
Image credit: Ki Māha | supplied
A jewel in the crown on Waiheke and occupying a prime location overlooking Onetangi beach, the relatively new kid on the block is a boujee destination restaurant brought to life by hospo heavyweight Dominique Parat (former owner of Mekong Baby, Isobar and Banque Remuera) and wife Tania. Loosely translating as an invitation to come to enjoy an exceptional dining experience, this is exactly what you’ll get—we’re looking at you sustainable black sturgeon caviar and Auckland Island scampi, alongside some choice drops from their well-stocked bar, you'll be in seventh heaven.
Now for a spot of wholesome activities with 15 things to do in Waiheke that aren't drinking wine.
Main image credit: Ki Māha.