Itching to get the family out of the house already? Have someone else do the dishes, treat yourself (and them!) and take them out to one of Takapuna’s buzzing family-friendly, kid-friendly and tastylicious dining establishments. We’ve got cafes, restaurants, takeaways and desserts for everyone in your whānau.
Street Organics
Healthy, tasty, whole foods from a place that caters to families not only with food, but parent’s facilities as well? Street Organics is a must visit these school holidays – or any day – with the family!
I love Takapuna recommends
For the kids: Egg & Toast or LCHF (low-carb, high-fat) Pancake
For the folks: SM’AVO with bacon, chicken or salmon
Burger Burger
Burgers. They’re the people’s food. The great gob-stopper that’ll have the kids occupied in blissful silence for just a few minutes. As you’d probably guess from the name, Burger Burger is a burger specialist, and you’re guaranteed to find something for every fussy palate, whether it be a straight up beef & cheese burger, or a vegan masterpiece.
I love Takapuna recommends
For the kids: Mc Fly with fried chicken breast
For the folks: Lamb of the South with smashed Te Mana lamb
The Elephant Wrestler
It’s big, it’s fun, it’s colourful and it’s got the best kid-pleasing name in town. This family friendly gastropub is a great environment for those seeking a bit of larger-than-life dining. There’s a dedicated kids’ menu as well as family favourites like pizzas, burgers and mac ‘n’ cheese bites. And there’s a massive courtyard with plenty of space for running around,
I love Takapuna recommends
For the kids: Loaded fries with cheese and gravy
For the folks: 300G sirloin steak with herb butter
Franc’s
There’s no denying that the ultimate family-friendly destination in Takapuna is the beach, and Franc’s is just a couple of steps from the sand and sea. It’s a summertime special that can be enjoyed all year round, with views to die for and a sand-and-sun vibe that can’t be beat. Bring the kids for a feed, then burn it off on the beach.
I love Takapuna recommends
For the kids: Waffles with fruit and maple syrup
For the folks: Sticky pork belly dog with kimchi slaw
Sake Bar Nippon
Yeah ok it’s a sake bar, but hear us out: staff in panda hats. This Japanese restaurant is just a fun place to be – you can watch the chefs’ mad skills as they cook your food, and you might even get a chance to ring the gong! Crowd-pleasing menu items include sushi, fried chicken and Japanese-style steak.
I love Takapuna recommends
For the kids: Chicken karaage with Japanese mayo
For the folks: Beef tataki with a squeeze of lemon
Aubergine
The big, friendly Mediterranean restaurant by the sea – especially perfect for evening dining. The kids’ menu has options like pasta, chicken tenders and fish & chips, and there are plenty of tasty options on the grown-ups’ menu for the more adventurous child.
I love Takapuna recommends
For the kids: Kids’ pasta with pomodoro sauce
For the folks: Slow-cooked shoulder of lamb
KiwiYo
Desserts! We’d be remiss not to include an indulgent sweet treat option, and KiwiYo is about the most fun you can have getting a bowl of frozen yoghurt. If you haven’t tried it out yet… where have you been? Grab a suitably sized bowl, choose your flavour(s) of froyo, pile on as many toppings as you can from the selection of fruits, lollies, sprinkles and sauces, and pay by weight.
I love Takapuna recommends
For the kids: A massive stack of yoghurt and lollies
For the folks: A massive stack of yoghurt and lollies
