Matakana’s Best Restaurants: A Food Lover’s Guide
Matakana may be best known for its beaches, vineyards, and markets, but ask any local and they’ll tell you that the food scene here is just as special. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a long lunch with friends, or a family-friendly night out, Matakana’s restaurants bring together fresh, locally sourced ingredients with stunning locations and warm Kiwi hospitality.
Here’s our guide to the best dining experiences to try during your stay at Riverside Matakana.
1. Rothko at Sculptureum
Cuisine: Modern NZ | Setting: Art meets fine dining
Rothko combines seasonal menus with breathtaking views of the Sculptureum’s gardens and galleries. Expect dishes crafted with produce grown right on site, fresh seafood, and New Zealand’s best meats. Enjoy a long lunch paired with local wines, then wander the art-filled grounds for the ultimate cultural and culinary experience.
Don’t Miss: The tasting menu with wine pairings for a truly indulgent experience.
2. The Farmer’s Daughter
Cuisine: Contemporary café | Setting: Beachfront brunch perfection
Perched at the edge of Omaha, The Farmer’s Daughter is famous for its farm-to-table philosophy, epic breakfasts, and creative coffee menu. Sit on the sunny deck overlooking the estuary and enjoy dishes made with seasonal produce from nearby farms.
Don’t Miss: Their seafood chowder and freshly made pastries for the road.
3. Matakana Village Pub
Cuisine: Classic Kiwi with a twist | Setting: Historic charm
The Matakana Village Pub has been serving locals and visitors since 1903. Renovated with style while keeping its heritage alive, it offers hearty meals from wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers and fresh oysters. The sunny courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy a pint of craft beer with friends after a day exploring the markets.
Don’t Miss: Local mussels and oysters paired with a glass of Matakana wine.
4. Sawmill Brewery & Smoko Room
Cuisine: Craft beer & gastropub | Setting: Rustic-chic brewery experience
Known for its award-winning craft beers and laid-back atmosphere, Sawmill Brewery’s Smoko Room serves delicious meals made with local, seasonal ingredients. It’s the perfect stop for beer lovers who also want a memorable dining experience.
Don’t Miss: Their beer tasting paddles with slow-cooked meats and sharing platters.
5. Sculpt Raumū
Cuisine: Farm-to-plate dining | Setting: Garden-to-table freshness
Sculpt Raumū brings a creative twist to Matakana dining, offering dishes inspired by the surrounding gardens and native ingredients. With its focus on sustainability and bold flavors, it’s a spot where every meal feels like a work of art.
Don’t Miss: Their seasonal tasting plates and botanical cocktails.
6. Jin Jin Matakana
Cuisine: Asian fusion | Setting: Vibrant and modern
For something different, Jin Jin Matakana delivers bold Asian flavors with a modern twist. The lively atmosphere and creative menu make it a favorite for groups looking for a fun night out.
Don’t Miss: Korean fried chicken and bao buns with craft cocktails.
7. The Vintry Matakana
Cuisine: Wine bar and tapas | Setting: Matakana Village rooftop
Overlooking the Matakana Village, The Vintry is all about sharing plates, boutique wines, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for a late afternoon drink and nibbles as the sun sets over the village.
Don’t Miss: Their ever-changing wine list featuring small-batch local producers.
Plan Your Foodie Adventure from Riverside Matakana
Staying at Riverside Matakana puts you right in the heart of this incredible food scene. After a day of exploring vineyards, beaches, and markets, you can return to your riverside villa for a peaceful evening — or keep the culinary journey going with a dinner at one of these amazing restaurants just minutes away.
Whether you want fine dining, vineyard lunches, or casual pub meals, Matakana’s restaurants offer something for every taste and occasion.
Book your stay today and start planning your ultimate foodie getaway in Matakana.