Takapuna tastes like fresh salt-air and world-class seafood. Every morning as the sun hits Rangitoto, local boats are already hauling in the day’s best catch.
When we talk about kai moana on Auckland’s North Shore, we are talking about a connection to a fertile food basket, from line-caught snapper to succulent kingfish. So, settle in for a long lunch overlooking the Hauraki Gulf, or unwrap a parcel of fish and chips on the sand.
Here are the local spots offering the best seafood.
Regatta Bar & Eatery for world-class seafood with a sea view
Regatta is the place to feel the pulse of the seaside with sweeping views of the ocean from a modern restaurant setting. The menu is a love letter to the ocean, with everything from crudo to chowder.
Must try: Nduja Butter Mussels with charred leek and coconut cream.
St Marée for a seafood specialist bistro
You might have known it as Catch 21, but the St Marée is taking things to a whole new level. It’s the perfect spot for serious seafood lovers, with a seasonal menu focused on what’s fresh right now.
Must try: St Marée Fish Wellington. This is a slow-cook masterpiece, designed for two. Market fish with prosciutto ham, spinach crepes and truffle. (Allow 40mins cooking time)
Takapuna Beach Café for beachside vibes
The traditional spot for a post-swim brunch or a sun-drenched lunch, right where the promenade meets the sea. If the sun is starting to set, then seek this spot for a delicious evening meal with everything from classic crumbed fish to the hallowed yellowfin tuna burger.
Must try: Baked snapper. Ask for the line-caught snapper of the day.
Takapuna Surf Club for a relaxed atmosphere & post-surf kai
Good food, ocean views and a rooftop oasis above the sand. All hosted by a talented team. It’s an evening made easy, as there is no need to book, just stroll in straight from the beach.
Must try: Coconut ceviche with orange, chilli and corn tortilla chips.
Nanam for that seafood spice of life
If you’re looking for the most creative seafood in the village, look no further.
Nanam is a blend of Filipino heritage and Spanish flair. The kitchen takes local staples and reinvents them, aromatic. You know it’s going to be delicious.
Must try: Sizzling “Sisig”. Octopus with grilled pork cheek, chimichurri and lettuce.
Tok Tok Kitchen for Asian fusion with a bit of ‘pop’
Step off the sidewalk and into a sanctuary. Tok Tok Kitchen is an asian fusion restaurant that feels like a tropical retreat in the heart of Takapuna. While the whole menu is a winner, the kitchen shines when it comes to seafood. Think big, bright and spicy flavours on freshly caught fish, scallops, prawns or Ruakaka Kingfish. Yum.
Must try: Dry spiced hapuka. Red curry with fresh herbs, toasted cashews, ginger, pickled chilli.
