We’ve got the best spots to eat and drink when going out for a show in Takapuna!
Takapuna boasts two quality performing arts venues with the Bruce Mason Centre and the Pumphouse Theatre keeping punters of all ages entertained.
With Matilda The Musical kicking off this week at the Bruce Mason Centre, be sure to make a memorable night of it by taking advantage of the best of Auckland hospitality right here in Takapuna. The centre even has its own two bars on the stalls and circle levels for your refreshment top-ups during the interval.
The Pumphouse is tucked away in Killarney Park and has a lovely licensed cafe; the French Rendez-vous Café right next door.
There is also a satellite bar, which is open before the show and during the interval for most performances.
Kick off your outing before the show
If you fancy a light snack or dinner before the show, pop by and visit one of Takapuna’s trendy eateries. The Elephant Wrestler boasts a lively courtyard and casual menu filled with little bites and bigger plates. If you’re dressed to the nines, head to Regatta for a cocktail, something to eat and soak up the ocean view.
Feelings some Asian fusion? Tok Tok Takapuna is where it’s at for a filling and flavourful pre-show meal. If Italian is more your thing, then you can’t go past Al Forno for pizza, pasta and a little vino.
How about fresh fish and Japanese grill with a side of sake? Sakebar Nippon Takapuna is right on the corner next to Bruce Mason Centre, perfect for a warmup. Nanam is all about fantastic Filipino fine dining, and the team knows the show schedule – let them know you’re heading to Matilda and they’ll make sure you get your food in time for curtains. Talk about spoilt for choice!
Wind down with a post-show apéritif
After you leave the theatre on a high and are humming all the songs, why not end the night with tapas and wine at Taylors on Hurstmere? It’s right next door to Bruce Mason Centre, and always a winner. For a nearby dessert, you can go for the exotic option with Frenchy’s Crêpes (we’re all about classic lemon & sugar), or a quality Kiwi dessert at Duck Island Ice Cream (a scoop of Ambrosia, please).
We’d also highly recommend a decadent tiramisù or affogato at the bellissimo Botticelli Italian restaurant. Florrie McGreals Irish pub could be just the place for a night cap to round the evening off and right next door you will find Hops & Claret where you can sip, savour and unwind with a cocktail, beer or wine after the show.
If you’re looking to try the best of Takapuna…
Taste of Takapuna 2024 is coming in October. This month-long North Shore foodie event is your chance to explore all that Takapuna’s hospitality scene has to offer. We’ll also be running the People’s Choice competition where you get to vote on your favourite eating and drinking spots, and go in the draw to win Takapuna hospitality vouchers. Learn more about Taste of Takapuna.
