Top Restaurants in Hamilton
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Where to Eat in Hamilton: The Best Restaurants and Bars
Discover the best restaurant in Hamilton, New Zealand including Adriana's Restaurant, Palate, Scotts Epicurean, The River Kitchen, Chim-choo-ree, Gothenburg, Zealong, Victoria Street Bistro, Furnace Restaurant, Agenda
Things to do in Hamilton
1. Adriana's Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 235 reviews
Reviewed By Rebecca B
What a total disappointment. We came to Adriana’s in search of some good Italian food and ended up with something extremely mediocre . My mother ordered lasagne and was not impressed it looked and tasted like a frozen supermarket meal. Both my fathers and my fettuccine was tasteless and needed loads of salt and cheese to give any taste. As well as awful food the Restaurant was way to hot, even with the air conditioning running. For what we paid you expect more.
2. Palate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 422 reviews
Reviewed By Chris W - Hamilton, New Zealand
I chose Palate to celebrate my wedding anniversary. What a mistake. The service was absolutely shocking. The food was really good, tasty and well presented, however our waitress was unfriendly and could not have cared less about us. Her service was very clinical, cold and borderline rude!
My wife mentioned that we were celebrating our wedding anniversary, and she could not have cared less! When we asked whether we could change one thing we did not like for something else, she rudely told us that they don't do that. I had to insist that she ask the chef. We came away feeling utterly disappointed by the experience. We will never be back, it doesn't matter how good the food is!
3. Scotts Epicurean
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 268 reviews
Reviewed By Shari T - Napier, New Zealand
This is a nice place, including the decor, service and food. We had my muesli was tasty and a generous portion, my husband’s hash was very hearty and flavoursome. The coffee was very good and promptly served. Our waitress was friendly and helpful.
It is a good location, not too noisy, comfortable Seating, good selection of papers and magazines. Nice way to spend and quiet Sunday morning.
The menu offer a good range of dishes and there is also cabinet food - so plenty to choice from
4. The River Kitchen
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 276 reviews
A busy award winning cafe in central Hamilton offering fresh seasonal food, exceptional coffee and catering
Reviewed By lian06
We visit Hamilton regularly, with our youngest at Waikato Uni. The River Kitchen is the best place for breakfast - get there early, because it fills up. Delicious food and coffee and a special mention of our waitress - also second year at Waikato Uni, studying Social Sciences - she does an excellent job. Cheers
5. Chim-choo-ree
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 373 reviews
Reviewed By nzfamilytron5 - Hamilton, New Zealand
There was lots to like but also some things that let it down.
The wee taster unfortunately was the first thing that hit the taste buds but also the first thing that went wrong. Not sure how a fried ball of potato is suppose to tantalise your taste buds?
But thank goodness for the entrees! All 4 were amazing! So much so I would come back in a heartbeat for drinks and entrees. Tuna tartare was the sublime!
Mains were good. Portion size was on point! None of this minimal plating business and the side of beans with kimichi butter - delicious. When I say good in regards to the mains they weren't outstanding. The fish was unfortunately overcooked as was the short rib. This was a little disappointing. Desserts were a mixed bag. The winner was the rice pudding mousse, the chocolate taco was rich and appreciated but the panacotta was sent back as very solid. Service was ok. Nothing exceptional but attentive. We enjoyed our meal, it just wasn't a 5 star on this occasion...
6. Gothenburg
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Gothenburg serves a great selection of tapas. We focus on having a relaxed atmosphere combined with excellent service. We have a beautiful view of Waikato River from our dining room and outdoor Terrace, and are located just a minutes walk from the main street.
Reviewed By Motoxnut - Hamilton, New Zealand
Turned up with a large group of work colleagues mid week and there was no booking for us.
This was due to a fault on our part not theirs, but even though they were fully booked for the evening, within 30 minutes they had accommodated us all at a large table.
I was far more impressed with the food this visit. Some very tasty and unusual dishes.
After my 1st visit I could easily not have gone back ( no real issue but I just didn't feel the wow factor ) , but now I will be returning for sure.
7. Zealong
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 311 reviews
Welcome to Zealong Tea Estate – where you can enjoy the ultimate in luxury, combined with our own unique blend of New Zealand hospitality. Widely regarded as a Waikato icon, Zealong Tea Estate is the only commercial tea estate in New Zealand, producing 100% organic award-winning tea. The estate is a world-leading destination for tea, art and hospitality in an unrivaled setting. Offering serene views, a variety of function venues, public activities and tours, our multi-talented team is dedicated to creating an extraordinary guest experience every day.
Reviewed By AudreyCSch - Auckland Central, New Zealand
My husband, mother and I were looking for a day trip out of Auckland to unwind after the Christmas festivities. Zealong Tea Estate was perfect. It is only about 1hr 30 mins from North Shore, Auckland.
There are several interesting bronze sculptures along a tree trail that explains how tea is picked and processed that you can do for free. It was an easy walk for my mother of 81 years. We were booked at noon for their Signature High Tea. For $45.00 you get your choice of all you can drink Zealong tea, a tiered cake stand with gourmet sandwiches, gourmet savouries and dessert/sweets. Every morsel was a delight, complementing the lush green tea plantation in the background. One can't help but feel like nobility.
Zealong High Tea -- great way to unwind, and pass the time with good food, good company, along with good balcony views of the plantation.
8. Victoria Street Bistro
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 528 reviews
Victoria St Bistro is Hamilton’s newest premium dining experience
Reviewed By TCKLY - Kuching, Malaysia
We had dinner at Victoria Street Bistro one evening and enjoyed our time there.
This restaurant probably is more suited for adult patrons or family with older children as they do not provide high chairs for young children. However, our young toddler was warmly welcomed.
The food was very tasty and made from fresh ingredients. My favorite was the pork hock with an Asian salad and rice. The pork was incredibly good and melted in your mouth. We had also ordered the fish and the chicken, which were also great.
The friendly staff gave our toddler a scoop of ice cream to enjoy while we were finishing off with coffee and tea.
If you are driving and dining after 6pm, park at the Knox Street parking building. The restaurant will pay the parking fee if you spend more than 20 dollars.
It was a wonderful evening with our family and we hope to be back again when we are in town.
9. Furnace Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 318 reviews
The Furnace menu provides for many tastes, with a wide range of pizzas, pastas and salads as well as generous and familiar main meals. The drinks list features quality tap beers such as Heineken, Tiger and Monteiths as well as more than 60 wines from New Zealand and abroad. Featuring leather booths, oak joinery and distinctive schist stonework, the décor is stylish and comfortable and the staff are friendly and attentive. Whether it be an intimate meal for two or a celebratory dinner for twenty, you'll be glad you chose Furnace.
10. Agenda
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 277 reviews
Contemporary New Zealand cuisine at it's finest. Agenda specialises in prime New Zealand meats and fresh produce to create a mouth-watering range of unique flavours. A multi award-winning restaurant, including 5 years running Beef and Lamb Excellence Awards. Agenda is a must for anyone who loves great food and great service.
Reviewed By t d - Eugene, Oregon
Unusual selections on small plates, elegantly cooked and presented. It gives the impression of nouvelle tapas with NZ ingredients. The atmosphere is Euro-modern and upscale. A place for sampling haute cuisine in light doses, rather than settling in for a full and extended meal.
