Takapuna has us spoilt for choice with the many wonderful places you can catch up and hang out with your friends and whānau. We’ve picked some of our favourite low-key places to visit – you’re bound to find something perfect for the occasion.
Be prepared for some proper memory-making moments, top conversations, a few wins from your favourite sporting team and good ol’ good times.
Bars with the crew
Ladies and gents, for after-work drinks or an easy midweek dinner with the family, The Elephant Wrestler has you covered. The menu is all about family-friendly favourites, and a “‘bits and bobs” section with options that would go down perfectly with a beverage. Popcorn prawns, fried tofu and crumbed onion rings? Get in my belly.
If you’re after a venue with stunning ocean scenery and inspirational views, you can’t go past Regatta Bar and Eatery. Overlooking Takapuna beach and the Hauraki Gulf, incredible food is not the only thing Regatta will be serving up.
Order a few share plates among you, grab a cocktail – the bar team are mixing up bangin’ alcoholic and zero-alcohol specialities – and you’re in for a spectacular hangout.
There’s also the new kid on the block, and she’s coming in HOT! Rosie’s Red Hot Cantina has opened on Takapuna’s beachfront, bringing some LA street vibes fused with their take on Mexican street food.
If a few mates, some great music, ice cold beer and frozen margarita slushies, a few tacos or a burger, some guac’ and nachos to share, over looking Takapuna Beach sounds like your perfect lazy afternoon, then Rosie’s is the place for you.
Got the footy on your mind? In that case, we recommend heading to Takapuna Bar. Find a possie in front of one of the many high-definition televisions, order a round and you’ll be away laughing.
Don’t worry if the league and rugby are played at the same time – the TB crew know what they’re doing and will put three different games on at any time in the three rooms.
Florrie McGreal’s is your local neighbourhood pub with ultra-friendly service and honest grub. Gather a team and head along to Tuesday’s quiz nights.
If you feel like putting your dancing shoes on, Florrie’s hosts live bands every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Time to show off your Tik Tok moves.
Casual kai
Think you know a good burger? Pop by Burger Burger and widen your horizons.
This crew takes the humble burger and elevates it by using top-quality ingredients and some pretty sweet food combinations.
You can book a table, or pop by as you meander past. Vegans are well catered for, and there is a surprisingly extensive selection of non-burger options.
When it’s time for an easy breezy breakfast or brunch catch-up, head to Catch 21 Eatery. Order from the menu or hit the wide selection of cabinet food.
If you pick your day right, you’re in for a free beverage with the burger of the day. Don’t forget to grab a poochaccino for your doggie friend.
How about an option that’s healthy, customisable never compromising on flavour? Look no further than Poké Poké. You know what’s perfect about this hangout?
You can take your bowl down to the beautiful Takapuna Beach, or dine in-house.
If your mates love a bit of healthy wholefoods, make a beeline for the plentiful indoor tables at Street Organics.
Everything on the menu is made from scratch using local organic ingredients wherever possible. Your eyes will feast, and your heart and soul will be nourished from the inside out.
If the weather is good, grab a take-out plant-based smoothie with your choice of organic dairy or alternative milks.
Tucking into a bowl of hot Ramen is right on-trend and perfect for these colder months. Head to Ajisen Ramen where the vibe is on point with timber décor and Japanese art.
You’ll find some fancy pants exotic ramen options as well as your classic shoyu and miso ramen.
Need some more places to eat or drink?
There are plenty more places in Takapuna that would love to have you! You can check out the FULL list of all the amazing places to eat and drink in Takapuna right here. Happy dining and chatting!
