14 Drool-Worthy Restaurants in New Plymouth
David Sims
| Last Updated: March 2024 Forget the saying that ‘it’s not what you eat but where you eat it.’ In New Plymouth, both matter.
Sure, you might not find Michelin-starred restaurants on every corner, but New Plymouth brings a taste of unique Kiwi cuisine and the finest fusions to you at often-beautiful restaurants.
Having dined throughout this coastal city and the breathtaking ocean views plenty of times, we know a thing or two about where to get your fill of darn good food in New Plymouth. Luckily for you, we’re listing them below.
1. Social Kitchen
Address: 40 Powderham Street, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4311, Newe Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 PM to 9 PM
Phone: +64 6 757 2711
Social Kitchen in New Plymouth is a place where your taste buds will do a happy dance and your social battery will get a major recharge.
The restaurant’s historic building oozes with character, with warm fairy lights twinkling overhead and the buzz of happy conversation filling the air. But let’s talk about the real star of the show: the food!
Their menu is a delicious dance between European and New Zealand influences, with fresh, seasonal ingredients taking centre stage.
Their black angus eye fillet is melt-in-your-mouth perfection, cooked to juicy tenderness in their Mibrasa charcoal oven. And the Tuscan chicken is perfect for all chicken lovers!
Pro Tip: Feeling celebratory? They have amazing desserts, but if you’re planning to bring your own cake, there’s a birthday cake-age fee. Just sayin’.
2. Salt Restaurant Cafe & Bar
Address: 1 Egmont Street, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 9:30 PM
Phone: +6467695304
If you’re setting sail for the stunning shores of New Plymouth, and your taste buds are yearning for an epicurean adventure, look no further than Salt Restaurant.
This ain’t your average, run-of-the-mill joint. Nestled on the first floor of the Millennium Hotel, Salt offers breathtaking views of the ocean from every table.
Tuck into mouthwatering delicacies while the Tasman Sea serenades you with its salty whispers. Pure bliss!
But the views are just the first part of the dining experience here. Salt’s menu is perfect for whether you’re a seafood fanatic or a landlubber with a love for all things meaty—you’re guaranteed to find something to tickle your fancy.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling fancy (and who isn’t sometimes?), be sure to check out their monthly high tea. It’s an afternoon of indulgence, with dainty finger sandwiches, delectable pastries, and bottomless pots of tea—the perfect way to treat yourself or impress your loved ones.
3. Bella Vita
Address: 146 Devon Street East, Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 2:30 PM & 5 PM to 9 PM
Phone: +6467583393
Bella Vita is a haven for foodies who crave authentic Italian flavours and a warm, inviting atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to a little slice of Italy, with the aroma of wood-fired pizzas and friendly service that makes you feel like family.
Bella Vita’s pizzas are legendary in New Plymouth. They use a traditional wood-fired oven to create pizzas with perfectly crisp crusts and melty, gooey cheese.
Plus, they have a wide variety of toppings to choose from, so you can customise your pizza to your heart’s content.
Pro Tip: If you don’t feel like going out, try their home-delivered meals.
4. Area 41 Restaurant
Address: 41 Brougham Street, Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 1 PM & 5 PM to late
Phone: +64 (06) 758 1236
Area 41 Restaurant is housed in a historic building dating back to 1884. But don’t worry—the food is anything but old-fashioned.
Area 41’s menu is a modern take on traditional Italian cuisine, with fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes that will tantalise your taste buds.
Forget boring toast—here, fluffy homemade breads accompany dishes like eggs Benedict with perfectly poached eggs and creamy hollandaise.
Their burgers are legendary, but if you’re feeling indecisive, any of their cracker pizzas are the way to go. And dinner dials things up a notch with housemade pastas.
Pro Tip: Planning a special event? Area 41 has you covered. Say ‘I do’ under the historic canopy, surrounded by fairy lights and the delicious scent of Italian magic. Or, host a corporate event your colleagues won’t soon forget.
5. Frederics Restaurant & Bar
Address: 34 Egmont Street, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday – 2 PM to 11 PM
- Wednesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 12 AM
Phone: +6467591227
Let me point you in the direction of a legendary spot: Frederic’s Restaurant and Bar. This ain’t your average joint. It’s nestled in a 100-year-old Georgian building, oozing history and charm like nobody’s business.
But forget dusty antiques—Frederic’s is all about bringing back the good times, and that starts with the food!
We’re talking juicy burgers stacked high—or maybe you’re feeling fancy, ini which case get their premium scotch fillet. Frederic’s also serves up some seriously good tacos, like their pulled beef tacos or their fish and prawn tacos.
Try one of their tasting platters. A mountain of fried chicken, lamb meatballs, gooey camembert, potato fritters, and even jalapeno poppers (for the brave souls!), all served with fluffy ciabatta and aioli.
Just be warned: convincing your friends to share might be trickier than climbing Mt. Taranaki!
Pro Tip: If you fancy a good drink, Frederic’s boasts a killer selection of craft beers on tap, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts.
6. Arborio Restaurants
Address: Puke Ariki Level One/65 Saint Aubyn Street, Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +6467591241
Arborio Restaurant, Cafe & Terrace Bar is nestled inside the architecturally stunning Puke Ariki museum. Arborio’s got stunning sea views that’ll leave you breathless, a terrace bar perfect for soaking up the sun with a cold beverage, and of course, the Puke Ariki museum right at your fingertips.
Foodwise, Arborio boasts an internationally inspired menu that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Sink your teeth into their spiced Moroccan lamb pizza, its exotic flavours transporting you to bustling souks, or savour a juicy burger.
Feeling like something lighter? Give their Vietnamese poached chicken salad a go.
Pro Tip: Arborio’s bottomless brunch is the stuff dreams are made of. Every Saturday and Sunday, indulge in endless plates of deliciousness from 9 AM all washed down with bottomless mimosas or bellinis.
7. Thai Chef’s Restaurant
Address: 66 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 5:30 PM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 5:30 PM to 10 PM
Phone: +6493543489
Craving something with a little spice? Head to Thai Chef’s Restaurant,your gateway to flavortown, without needing a passport (or even leaving your PJs if you opt for takeout!).
They ain’t messing around with authenticity. Think lip-smacking phad thai that’ll transport you to a Bangkok street market, green curry that packs a punch (or a purr, depending on your spice preference), and tom yum soup that’ll warm your soul (and maybe clear your sinuses, in the best way possible).
But they don’t stop at the classics! The famous chick is their signature dish for a reason, and they have plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans too.
Can’t handle the heat? No worries! They’ll tailor the spice level to your liking, so you can enjoy all the deliciousness without the fire-breathing dragon aftereffects.
Pro Tip: Whether you’re a solo diner, a power lunching business crew, or a party of hungry mates, Thai Chef’s has you covered. They even have a special banquet menu for larger groups, so you can feast like royalty (without the hefty price tag).
8. Joe’s Garage New Plymouth
Address: 162 Devon Street East, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7 AM to 8:30 PM
- Friday – 7 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +6467581799
Joe’s Garage is a restaurant that’ll turn that rumble into a happy, revving engine. Joe’s Garage is like the coolest car in town, all decked out with a buzzing atmosphere, friendly service, and food that’ll satisfy your inner gearhead (and your taste buds, of course!).
Whether you’re a sunrise seeker or a night owl, Joe’s Garage has got your back (and your belly) covered. They’ve got breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that’ll make your mouth water. Think fluffy pancakes, juicy burgers, and mains that are like a victory lap for your taste buds.
Try their teddy best—this ain’t your average chicken sanga. Grilled chicken breast cruisin’ is served alongside caramelised onions, rocket, and a zingy mustard aioli. All nestled in a toasted ciabatta or multigrain bun—it’s a chequered flag win!
Pro Tip: Planning a get-together? Joe’s Garage is your party pit stop! They’ve got spaces for intimate gatherings or full-blown bashes, so you can celebrate any occasion with good food and good company.
9. The Good Home
Address: 21 Ariki Street, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Phone: +6467584740
The Good Home is all about relaxed vibes and friendly faces. And the menu is a delicious mix of classic Kiwi comfort food with a modern twist.
We’re talking juicy steaks cooked to perfection, pizzas piled high with fresh toppings, and burgers that are legit flavour bombs.
And if you’ve still got room after that feast, their desserts are pure magic. Like their coconut and lemongrass cheesecake—a tropical dream that’ll transport you to a beach somewhere exotic (even if it’s just for a few bites).
But the Good Home isn’t just about the food (although, let’s be honest, that’s a pretty big part of it). They also have a killer selection of drinks, from craft beers to cheeky cocktails.
Pro Tip: Get their mixed grill platter—it’s perfect for large groups of people, or if you just want to try different things off their menu.
10. Juliana’s Restaurant at Auto Lodge
Juliana’s Restaurant at Auto Lodge
Address: 393a Devon Street East, Strandon, New Plymouth 4312, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:30 AM to 11 PM
Phone: +64800800896
Craving delish French food in New Plymouth? Juliana’s has your name on it!
Juliana’s is all about relaxed sophistication. Think spacious, modern digs with a warm atmosphere, perfect for a romantic rendezvous, a lively catch-up with friends, or even a fancy family dinner.
Plus, with stunning views (depending on where you sit!), it’s like dining with a side of Taranaki magic. But the real star of the show is the food. French bistro classics reimagined with fresh, local ingredients.
We’re talking juicy lamb shanks braised to melt-in-your-mouth perfection, creamy coq au vin bursting with flavour, and delicate seafood dishes that’ll transport you straight to the French Riviera (minus the plane ticket!).
Pro Tip: Make sure you check out their bar!
11. Go Street
Address: 54 Gill Street, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 4 PM to 9 PM
- Friday – 4 PM to 9:30 PM
Phone: +6467590902
Go Street is cool, casual, and inviting, with an outdoor patio that’s perfect for soaking up the New Plymouth sunshine. And it’s the place to go for some darn good food.
Their crispy pork medallions are delicious, bursting with sweet apricot and honey, perched on creamy mash. Or, dive into the makhani chicken, its tender breast swimming in a fragrant, spiced sauce.
We’re talking flavour explosions that’ll have you rethinking your relationship with hotel food (sorry, room service!).
And no meal is complete without dessert, and Go Street delivers. Their pink gin mousse with vanilla ice cream is the stuff dreams are made of—light, fluffy, and with a subtle gin kick that’ll leave you wanting more.
Pro Tip: Go Street hosts events—weddings, birthdays, and more!
12. Devons Turkish Cafe & Restaurant
Devons Turkish Cafe & Restaurant
Address: 103 Devon Street East, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 8:30 PM
Phone: +6467591012
Devons Turkish Cafe Restaurant has been serving up authentic Turkish cuisine for over 20 years, and it’s no wonder they’ve become a local favourite.
From the moment you step inside Devons, you’re greeted by the warm aroma of spices and freshly grilled meats. The restaurant is decorated with traditional Turkish touches, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
The real star of the show is the food. Devons’ menu features a wide variety of traditional Turkish dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for succulent kebabs, flavourful pide, or hearty stews, you’re sure to find something to tantalise your taste buds.
Pro Tip: Get their mixed meat iskender if you want a little of everything!
13. Snug Lounge
Address: 124 Devon Street West, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 4 PM to 11 PM
Phone: +6467579130
If you’re looking for something a little different—something that combines Japanese flavours with a relaxed Kiwi vibe—then Snug Lounge is definitely worth checking out.
They’ve got all the classics you know and love, like salmon sashimi and melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin.
They also have a whole section of their menu dedicated to snug bites, which are basically Japanese-inspired tapas. Think steamed buns filled with pulled pork or chicken katsu, or delicate dumplings bursting with flavour. It’s the perfect way to try a little bit of everything, and it’s great for sharing with friends.
Pro Tip: Snug Lounge has a killer cocktail list with inventive concoctions that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. They also have a good selection of Japanese beers and wines, so you’re sure to find something to quench your thirst.
14. Ms White
Address: White Hart Courtyard 47 Queen Street, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth 4310, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 4 PM to 9 PM
- Thursday – 4 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Phone: +64 274 064 314
Ms White is slinging gourmet pizzas that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. We’re talking fresh, seasonal ingredients, hand-rolled dough that’s pillowy yet perfectly crisp,and flavour combos that’ll blow your mind.
Think creamy ricotta, smoky eggplant, and caramelised onion, or spicy chorizo, roasted peppers, and tangy olives. And there’s a pint to perfectly complement your pizza party and satisfy every beer lover’s taste.
Pro Tip: They have over 40 different brews on tap, from local legends to international superstars.
