• The Goodside dining precinct.

Exploring for Food Lovers

It wasn’t that long ago that you had to go to the city to have an outstanding dining experience. And going out for a meal was a real treat. Now we have such a plethora of choice that we eat out more often and can experience a range of different cuisines and locations.

Goodside at Smales Farm has been the new dining precinct du jour over the summer. Perfect for those wanting quality and perhaps a different option each visit. The eateries each have something for everyone, yet you can all sit and eat together in pretty outdoor courtyards no matter your meal. The Grange restaurant brings the outdoors in with dining areas featuring glass walls and gardens. Invite your city friends over; they can catch the bus!

Did you know Milford has become a bit of a foodie haven? Specialty stores have popped up around the village over the past few years and you’ll find fresh salads and take-home meals, a new gourmet butchery, French bakery, and fresh bulk bin store The Source. Cafés and Japanese eateries galore are joined by the colourful Ola Poké. Here you are rewarded with the freshest poké bowls prepared exactly how you prefer them. In Milford, with plenty of parking, it’s easy to wander around and shop the boutiques before stopping for refreshments or picking up lunch and heading down to Milford Beach for a picnic.

Takapuna has every cuisine and every location you could wish for, from beachfront to alleys or street-side dining. Wandering from one end to the other you'll find casual, stylish eateries and bars including some long-standing local favourites. Fresh, locally-sourced produce appears on many menus, including wholefood and organic offerings and some very creative Instagram-worthy dishes.

Devonport has always been popular with visitors arriving by ferry from the city and is flourishing with a variety of excellent eateries. Neighbourhood bistros and bustling cafés have wide appeal and suit any occasion or a catch up with friends. You’ll love the friendly welcome you receive from the owners and staff and will be made to feel like a local even if you don’t live there. During the day you can finish off a seaside walk or Segway ride, a navy museum visit, shopping around the unique stores, or climb around one of the volcanoes with bites from any number of establishments that will tickle your tastebuds.

And do look out for the festivals that crop up across the Shore during the year. February features the Takapuna Wine & Food Festival at Smales Farm on the 16th of February, while Milford Village closes the streets for the Viva La France Festival and Market Day on the 23rd.

If you are a creature of habit, do branch out and discover another neighbourhood’s gem. You’ll find treasures that locals may want to keep secret so hunt them out and you’ll be well rewarded. We really are spoilt for choice on the Shore.


Issue 95 February 2019