Amelia WilliamsHerne Bay is easily one of Auckland’s most beautiful suburbs, and its food scene is just as impressive.
Local foodies hunting for a new favourite and visitors looking to make their trip memorable both face the challenge of finding the right spot.
This area packs a serious culinary punch, offering a wide range of options. There’s high-end creative dining for date nights. And then, there are family-run pizzerias and health-conscious cafes.
We’ve explored the neighbourhood to find the absolute must-try spots. Here are our picks for the best restaurants in Herne Bay, Auckland, that you need to check out.
How much does dining cost in Herne Bay, Auckland?
Dining in Herne Bay can fit a few different budgets. For a great casual meal, you can expect a main course to set you back about $25 to $40.
If you’re celebrating or enjoying some fine dining, mains usually land in the $40 to $80 range.
Planning a special night out? A lovely three-course meal for two will likely cost between $150 and $200 before you add drinks.
Speaking of drinks, a glass of wine or beer is typically $9 to $15. Remember, tipping isn’t mandatory in New Zealand, but is of course, always appreciated.
1. Paris Butter
Website: https://parisbutter.co.nz/
Address: 166 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011
Contact: 09 376 5597 / [email protected]
Schedule: Tue – Sat, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Must-Try Dish: Beef Tartare
Paris Butter is all about “Creative New Zealand Dining,” and it truly delivers a high-end experience. It’s a fantastic choice for a big celebration.
The vibe is elegant and sophisticated, but still feels vibrant and modern. Their multi-course known as the “Evolution Menu”, is their main event, focusing on seasonal local produce.
When I tried their Beef Tartare, I was blown away by the presentation and the layers of flavour. It’s clear that talented chefs are indeed behind this menu.
It is definitely on the premium side, so it’s a “special occasion” spot rather than a weekly visit. Securing a table also requires planning, as it books out well in advance.
Customer Reviews
We had a great evening and experience.
The food here is very delicious. As well as the service very friendly and nice.
We really enjoy the food and the environment. And we are planning the next visit in the near future and will highly recommend it to our friends.
– Victor | Google Review
Such a wonderful experience! The food was so flavorful and looks gorgeous , the waiter and chef were friendly and professional. At the end, the chef even came out to us with a complimentary dessert! Such a surprise! Guess we were lucky😀
– Silvia S | Google Review
2. Janken
Website: https://www.jankenjapanese.com/
Address: 158 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011
Contact: 09 360 0555 / [email protected]
Schedule: Tue – Thu and Sat – Sun, 8 AM – 3 PM; Fri – Sun, 8 AM – 3 PM & 5 PM – 8 PM
Must-Try Dish: JANKEN Vegan Curry Bowl
Janken is a total gem, appealing directly to health-conscious diners and those with dietary needs.
Their entire menu is gluten-free and dairy-free (except for coffee milk), which is a massive plus. They also focus on organic, local produce and traditional fermented ingredients like miso and koji.
The atmosphere here is clean and calm, which makes dining here feel genuinely wellness-focused.
I had the JANKEN Vegan Curry Bowl, and it was so flavourful and energising, not heavy at all. The sauce was made from fresh ingredients, making it refreshing to the palate.
Because it’s a smaller, specialised cafe, the menu might feel limited if you’re looking for indulgent, traditional Japanese food. But for a clean, nourishing meal, it’s my top pick.
Customer Reviews
We were very lucky to find this gem of a Japanese eatery. Very impressed with the quality of the food and novel touches. The mochi rolls, chicken donabe hotpot and sake vegan truffle were highlights but the food was all outstanding. Arigato!
– Ed McDonald | Google Review
This is a favourite local breakfast spot. They specialise in vegetarian and vegan Japanese inspired food. A lot of the produce is organic with an emphasis on no added gluten and diary free. The Imo Mochi Tofu Benedict is especially good!
– Ben Jurisich | Google Review
3. Jervois Rd Wine Bar + Kitchen
Website: https://www.jervoisrd.co.nz/
Address: 170 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011
Contact: 09 376 5367 / [email protected]
Schedule: Tue – Wed, 2:30 PM – 10 PM; Thu, 2:30 PM – 11 PM; Fri – Sat, 2:30 PM – 12 AM; Sun, 2:30 PM – 10 PM
Must-Try Dish: Jervois Buttermilk Fried Chicken With Gochujang Sauce
If you’re looking for a relaxed local bistro with a great buzz, Jervois Rd is the spot. It’s a great place to meet friends for a drink and some fantastic food.
The daily happy hour from 4-6 pm is a huge draw, and they often have live music, which really boosts the atmosphere. I went here on a Friday, and the R&B session was fantastic.
My friends and I shared a few plates, but what I found most tasty was their Hawke’s Bay Lamb Cutlets, which were cooked just right.
It’s a true wine bar, so if you’re in here for the drinks, their selection is quite impressive.
Just keep in mind that because it’s popular, especially during happy hour or live music nights, it can get quite crowded and loud, so it’s not the place for a quiet, intimate chat.
Customer Reviews
AMAZING! Love this restaurant. Yummy cocktails, fabulous staff and the food is outstanding. The wagyu beef is a MUST have and just melts in the mouth. Eaten a lot of beef in my life and this is the best beef I have ever eaten. Cannot wait to return.
– I am Julie-Arianna | Google Review
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!! Beautiful Live music sung by the amazing Thomas Stowers 🥂 Nice, cosy atmosphere inside on a cold wintery Friday night (July 21st). The heater was on outside also. Toilets were clean, all the staff did an excellent job. Well done everyone
– Ollee 2013 (Ollee2013) | Google Review
4. Bono Pizzeria
Website: https://www.bonopizzeria.co.nz/
Address: 218 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011
Contact: 09 360 8866 / [email protected]
Schedule: Tue – Wed, 5 PM – 9:30 PM; Thu-Sat, 12 PM – 9:30 PM; Sun, 12 PM – 9 PM
Must-Try Dish: Combination Pizza
Bono Pizzeria feels like a true slice of Northern Italy right in Herne Bay. As a family-owned spot, it has a wonderfully warm and hospitable vibe.
The relaxed, cozy ‘ristorante’ feel suits a date night or a family meal.
What I love here is how they’re all about traditional recipes, from authentic pizzas to homemade pastas.
Of course, you can’t be here and not try their pizza. The Combination one was quite the tasty experience, topped with different kinds of meat like chicken, beef, and lamb.
It’s not a huge restaurant, so it can feel a bit tight when it’s full. Booking ahead is definitely a good idea, especially on a weekend.
Customer Reviews
Absolutely loved the food, service and ambience. We shared our two dishes, both fish, and had a salad. It was a fabulous meal. Highly recommended.
– Paul Batten | Google Review
Lovely place with great service . The food was delicious creamy and perfectly seasoned the pasta dishes. We all enjoyed our food even pizza was great, we had lamb bbq and dessert was nice the lava cake not too sweet 😋
– Vela | Google Review
5. Goodness Cafe
Website: https://www.goodnesscafe.co.nz/
Address: 228 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1021
Contact: 09 218 2501
Schedule: Mon – Fri, 7 AM – 3 PM; Sat – Sun, 8 AM – 3 PM
Must-Try Dish: Braised Beef Cheek
Goodness Cafe is the ultimate community hub. It’s my go-to for a morning coffee or a relaxed weekend brunch when I’m in the area. The vibe here is just so friendly and welcoming, so it’s great for starting your day.
They call themselves a place where “taste meets heart,” and I would agree that really comes through.
Their menu is wholesome but also has indulgent options. The Braised Beef Cheek is surprisingly rich and tender for a cafe menu—a definite must-try!
I also love that they have a private room you can hire for free with a food order, which is well-suited for meetings or small parties.
It’s very popular, so finding a table during the peak weekend brunch rush can sometimes be a challenge.
Customer Reviews
The food at Goodness was great, with fresh ingredients and a menu that offers something for everyone. The presentation is inviting, and the flavors are on point. The staff is equally impressive—friendly, attentive. Whether it’s a quick coffee or a full meal, the warm atmosphere and excellent service make this cafe a must-visit!
– Cham Wickramasinghe | Google Review
Amazing food, friendly staff and perfect location. This cafe has everything you need to start the day on the right foot. We had the creamy mushrooms and the waffles, and they were both delicious!
– Julia H | Google Review
