When it comes to whipping up mouth-watering kai and creating world-class wine, Hawke’s Bay deserves a standing ovation. Known for its chardonnay and beautiful art deco architecture, Hawke's Bay is filled with cool urban bars and eateries. So, once you're done climbing Te Mata Peak and golfing on one of the world's top courses, hit the road to indulge in the ever-growing food and wine scene.
For more rad recommendations for where to eat and drink in Hawke's Bay, from Hawke's Bay Tourism.
Matisse Wine Shop & Bar
Napier
The perfect blend of wine and art, this visually stunning in the heart of Napier CBD is a great spot to while away an afternoon. Their wine list is full of unique and wonderful gems that tell a story, so get settled in to explore the extensive wine list and seasonal menu of snacks and small plates.
The Urban Winery
Ahuriri Napier
Situated in the National Tobacco Factory Building, is an oasis for people who are serious about great wine, great beer and a great night out. Tony Bish is a chardonnay specialist who has crafted wine in Hawke's Bay for decades. Now using unique 1600L concrete tanks, Tony’s wine is consistently named among the country’s best. The Urban Winery is his cellar door and also retails other Hawke's Bay wines made by Tony’s friends. Visitors can do a wine tasting at the cellar door or stop for a platter of charcuterie, with live music regularly on the cards too.
Teresa Bar
Napier
This sexy speakeasy hidden behind an Italian deli focuses on celebrating local and seasonal unique produce, so it's perfect for aperitivo hour or a late-night sip. is the brainchild of Sarah Mitchell and Andrea Marseglia, who is regularly named among the country’s leading bartenders, expect captivating cocktails that are presented with a side of theatrics.
Hastings Distillers Tasting Room
Hastings
One of Hastings' hottest s, the distillery's tasting room is the perfect spot for a flight with harmonious nibbles to enhance the botanical notes of the locally distilled and award-winning gin.
Monica Loves
Napier
Tucked down a Napier CBD laneway, look for the neon sign and you’ll know you’re in the right place for top-notch cocktails, a beer list with regular surprises on tap and a Hawke’s Bay-centric wine list. has a range of mouth-watering food available in tapas style, utilising fresh ingredients from local suppliers, including Mister D, Chantal Organics and Hands Down Tortillas!
Smith and Sheth Wine Lounge
Havelock North
Tucked behind Porters Hotel in the Havelock North Village you’ll find the cosy . Offering a range of sommelier-selected wines that will delight. Escape the hustle and bustle and make yourself at home on their patio.
Market Street
Napier
Cocktails are speciality. Pretty much anything you can dream up, they can create. The rosebud cocktail comes highly recommended. Plus, if you’re in on a Thursday, complement your drink with dollar dumplings!
West Quay
Ahuriri
West Quay is a mecca of urban bars ready to serve up a glass of Hawke’s Bay wine, a fresh cocktail or a cold pint. With incredible views of the Ahuriri Harbour, West Quay hosts a range of bars and watering holes, with favourites including and , while on the far side of the harbour has a Hawke’s Bay wine list worth travelling for.
Giant Public House
Havelock North
The brewpub is a modern interpretation of a classic institution, pouring their core range of full-flavoured craft beer, with a rotating selection of drops from independent New Zealand breweries. Whether it be a European-style pilsner, fruity IPA or coffee mocha stout, the beer is excellent and worth a second pint. And if you’re hungry, Good Company Catering will fill you up with the likes of chips, burgers and pork ribs.
Common Room
Hastings
The street front is pretty unassuming, but as you push through the doors you find yourself in a dimly lit lounge, walls adorned with memorabilia and out the back the sweetest little – you won’t want to leave.
Brave Brewing
Hastings
Launched in late 2014, is a small, award-winning brewery located in the beautiful Hawke’s Bay. This business is family owned and operated, and can now be found at their brand new premises in central Hastings, with an onsite taproom, eatery and cellar door. It’s your friendly neighbourhood brewery and, while they and their cult following have grown, their ethos hasn't changed. They make quality, flavourful beer and serve it to you fresh.
While you're in the area, be sure to check out 8 of the best restaurants in Hawke’s Bay.
Image credit: Monica Loves, Teresa Bar, Market St, Common Room.