Leisure

Hamilton has a variety of different cuisines and cultures. Here is a list that covers all different Cuisines and Cultures to ensure there is something for everyone.

Lovegrove Lane

Experience the charm of Lovegrove Lane, a vibrant collective of businesses including The Flower Crate, Sun Salute Yoga Centre, Framing House, Good Honest Tattoos, and GG’s café. This eclectic blend invites visitors to discover unexpected delights. Begin with family-friendly ‘mums and bubs’ yoga at Sun Salute Yoga Centre, and then extend your stay for a taste of the town-famous lamington and coffee at GG’s café. Whether framing cherished memories at Framing House or selecting a bouquet from The Flower Crate to brighten someone’s day, Lovegrove Lane offers a diverse range of experiences.

The aptly named lane showcases a holistic and colourful array of businesses, reflecting a community determined to support one another and foster collaborative growth in their up-and-coming suburb. Amidst pots of greenery and relaxed outdoor furniture, lunch-goers create an easygoing atmosphere, providing a tranquil escape from the more industrial areas of town. Bring your basket, yoga mat, and positive vibes to immerse yourself in the stress-free charm of Lovegrove Lane, leaving you charmed by the collective spirit of this unique destination.

Casabella Lane

Casabella Lane lives up to its enchanting name, a hidden gem that captures your attention when you take notice. Nestled between Barton and Anglesea Streets, this charming lane is a treasure trove, boasting 17 locally-owned stores that cater to a variety of interests. 

For the avid reader, Poppies Bookstore beckons with a diverse selection. Fashion enthusiasts can explore Sills and Co, New Zealand fashion designers offering luxurious wardrobe staples, and Zebrano, a source of fashion-forward plus-sized pieces.

Jewellery connoisseurs will be captivated by Midas Diamond Jewellers, showcasing a stunning collection of ready-made jewels and the option to create a custom piece. Devereux & Villiger, an award-winning retailer, awaits hair and beauty enthusiasts with a range of skin, makeup, and hair care products. The Estella Arden Salon and Varda Barbershop complete the pampering experience.

Casabella Lane caters to diverse tastes with Epiphany Café for sweet treats and coffee, A Profound Tea Shop for bubble tea, and an array of culinary delights at Kino Sushi, Noodle Bar, Basil Thai Kitchen, and Vietnamese Kitchen. The lane’s uniqueness extends to an art supplies store and a wedding photographer, offering a delightful mix of options for everyone.

Gothenburg

Nestled on a spacious patio overlooking the picturesque Waikato River that gracefully winds through the heart of Hamilton, Gothenburg offers an ideal setting for basking in a sunny afternoon. Inside, the atmosphere is dramatic, adorned with large windows that frame the panoramic view. This café and restaurant take pride in showcasing locally grown, organic produce, specializing in tapas that seamlessly blend New Zealand and international flavours. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual drink, a leisurely coffee, or a special meal, Gothenburg invites you to partake in a unique and beautiful dining experience. Their thoughtfully crafted plates are designed for sharing, encouraging patrons to savour a variety of culinary delights.

Founded in 2009 on Hood Street, Gothenburg drew inspiration from the founders’ global culinary adventures. Relocating next to the river, the new location maximizes the enchanting backdrop of the Waikato.

With a diverse and extensive menu, Gothenburg may present an array of tempting dishes that could be overwhelming. Fear not! The friendly team is ready to assist, offering personalized suggestions for the table. Accommodating various dietary preferences, they provide a range of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Escape the urban hustle, retreat to the riverside, and savour the finest in Waikato cuisine at Gothenburg.

Palate

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Hamilton, Palate is a fully licensed restaurant where Head Chef and owner Mat McLean, along with his dedicated team, curates an exceptional dining experience. Their culinary artistry revolves around fresh, seasonal, and top-quality produce, thoughtfully paired with an extensive wine list.

Palate boasts an impressive collection of national restaurant awards, surpassing all other dining establishments in the Waikato—an achievement that brings pride to Mat and his team. The pinnacle of recognition came in 2012 when Palate was honoured with the title of Best Regional Restaurant in New Zealand at the Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Awards. 

Further accolades followed in 2014 when Mat McLean was distinguished as the ‘Premier Master of Fine Cuisine’ in the inaugural Silver Fern Farms Premiere Selection Awards. Adding to its accolades, the restaurant received an Entertainment Gold Award in 2014—one of only two in Hamilton to achieve this distinction. Palate stands as a testament to culinary excellence and a destination where the commitment to quality and innovation is celebrated.

Saigon Noon

Nestled in the vibrant city centre, Saigon Noon discreetly holds its place among unassuming cafes and shops, beckoning those willing to embark on the inevitable hunt for a parking space to discover a hidden gem.

Upon entering, you’re greeted with warm smiles and a welcoming atmosphere as Erik and his team seamlessly orchestrate an authentic experience of fresh, fast, and affordable Vietnamese cuisine right in the heart of Hamilton. Ample windows offer views of the bustling street corner, creating a perfect backdrop for both people-watching and indulging in comforting dishes that transport you to the lively streets of Vietnam.

In the Western world, authentic Vietnamese flavours can sometimes be elusive, but Erik is on a mission to revive them. With over 15 years of experience in the food industry, he’s well-equipped for the task. Standout choices like Pho and Banh Mi grace the menu, though there are no wrong choices here. The meat is meticulously prepared and cooked daily, and special attention is given to sourcing fresh baguettes from selected suppliers.

Saigon Noon aims to keep every ingredient as fresh as possible, championing local suppliers along the way. If you’re a food enthusiast with preferences or allergies, you’ll find a welcoming home here. Most menu items are rice-based, catering to gluten-free preferences, and the menu boasts vegetarian and vegan options.

Whether you’re inclined to share a variety of dishes with friends or savour the goodness all to yourself, Saigon Noon has you covered. For added convenience, they offer their own app for direct ordering and delivery, ensuring that the flavours of authentic Vietnamese cuisine are just a click away.

Rice Rice Baby

When it comes to embracing the essence of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Rice Rice Baby in Hamilton takes its commitment seriously. This lively establishment radiates vibrant energy, offering not just delicious food but a full spectrum of fun vibes, a dash of nostalgia, and an abundance of genuine Vietnamese flavour. It transcends being a mere eatery; it’s a manifestation of stories, memories, and time-honoured family recipes straight from the heart of Vietnam.

Adorned with candy pink walls, retro cherry tablecloths, and pops of vibrant aquamarine, the décor practically exclaims ‘fun!’ Drawing inspiration from a vintage photograph of a Vietnamese eatery in the 1960s, it serves as a visual time machine, seamlessly bridging decades with its eclectic charm. Funky neon signs, quirky light boxes, and furniture imported directly from Vietnam complete the one-of-a-kind space, a haven for niche details and an Instagram enthusiast’s dream.

While the eye-catching Miami Vice-inspired vibe sets the stage, it’s the menu that steals the spotlight. A passionate ode to family recipes passed down through generations, each dish tells a story. The irresistible cauliflower bites find inspiration from a Ho Chi Minh District Three street vendor, known for her signature dish sold from a pushcart. The authentic pho recipe hails directly from Chef Phu’s Uncle, a street food vendor in Vietnam. Chef Anh honours her Grandma’s legacy with special wontons perfected since she was eight years old.

Rice Rice Baby rejects fusion; instead, it embraces authentic flavours cooked with love and a fervent dedication to the culinary craft. No wonder both seasoned travellers and the health-conscious flock to this colourful haven for their daily fix of ridiculously tasty, fresh Vietnamese fare. Perched on plastic chairs, patrons indulge in rice noodles and succulent pork chops, immersing themselves in the lively ambience of everyday chatter and great tunes—essentially, Vietnamese street dining minus the traffic!

Duck Island Ice Cream

Duck Island stands as Hamilton’s foremost ice cream haven, celebrated for its extensive array of inventive, genius-inspired flavours that have become the talk of the town. This parlour, quite literally an ice cream gem, boasts a staggering range, offering delights like popcorn, condensed milk, and toasted marshmallows alongside beloved Kiwi classics such as mint chocolate chip.

For the conscientious dessert lover, Duck Island provides several vegan options, and all their dairy-free ice creams are crafted with delectable coconut milk. The experience is heightened as you can sample various flavours before settling on your perfect scoop or opt to bring a tub home for your freezer.

The charming interior of this sunny retreat is adorned with bright pastel colours and lush ferns, creating an inviting atmosphere—a perfect spot to unwind with a friend. Originating as part of the dessert menu at the award-winning restaurant Chim Choo Ree, Duck Island’s delectable ice creams garnered such acclaim that a standalone establishment was born.

People travel from near and far to savour the ice cream extravaganza, and it’s not uncommon to find a queue stretching out the door. With a commitment to organic, ethically sourced ingredients and a menu that evolves with creativity, resisting a visit to this delightful corner ice cream shop on Grey Street in East Hamilton is a challenge. The next time you’re feeling a bit low, make your way to Duck Island and elevate your spirits with a triple scoop of pure delight.

Good George

In September 2012, a group of close friends embarked on a unique venture, taking residence in the St George Chapel on Somerset Street to embark on the craft of brewing their own beer. Naming their enterprise ‘Good George‘ in homage to the saintly setting, they chose the unconventional backdrop of a church to elevate their passion for the drink. Their mission was clear: convert the people of Hamilton to the rich and diverse taste of craft beer, starting with a modest pale ale.

Years have passed, and these contemporary beer enthusiasts, now akin to beer saints, have cultivated a colossal following of aficionados. Good George now proudly offers a diverse array of beers and ciders, ranging from the ever-popular IPA to the resounding success of the Doris Plum Cider. While their brews are available in most supermarkets, the pilgrimage to Hobbiton and its pub is required for the Lord of the Rings-themed flavours.

Visitors to the brewery can witness the magic firsthand, with on-site brewing apparatus and the option for true fanatics to embark on a tour of numerous tanks, indulging in a variety of flavours. A standout feature of the tour is the giant beer fridge, illuminated with techno disco lights synchronized to ’70s rock hits. A dedicated lab ensures the beer’s taste remains consistently exceptional by putting it under the microscope for quality control.

The Dining Hall, set amidst the brewing tanks with a spacious outdoor area, provides the ideal setting to savour a refreshing glass of beer in the sunshine. Good George’s menu is thoughtfully curated to complement their brews, with the ‘Blue Me, I’m Irish’ burger gaining official acclaim from judges.

Proudly rooted in Hamilton and the wider Waikato community, Good George has become a local favourite and a beacon of community pride. Regular gatherings, akin to confessions, take place under stained glass windows adorned with depictions of hops and beer, solidifying Good George’s status as both a local treasure and a community hero.

Eat Burger

A delectable burger haven in Hamilton, New Zealand, Eat Burger at SkyCity Hamilton has become a beloved destination for burger enthusiasts in the heart of Hamilton Central.

Renowned for crafting some of the city’s finest burgers, Eat Burger beckons those with a hankering for a scrumptious and hearty meal. What sets this restaurant apart is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of the region’s flavours.

Indulge in mouth-watering burgers, each crafted with care and precision. From the timeless classic cheeseburger to the enticingly crispy chicken burger, the menu caters to a variety of tastes. Known for its delectable offerings and wallet-friendly prices, Eat Burger provides an affordable option for food enthusiasts who appreciate quality without compromising their budget.

Whether you’re seeking a swift and hassle-free dinner after work or a delightful prelude to a night out with friends, Eat Burger fits the bill perfectly. The laid-back atmosphere and prompt service mean you won’t have to wait long to savour your chosen delight. The restaurant offers both takeaway options and a relaxed eat-in experience, ensuring convenience for both locals and visitors alike. Eat Burger stands as a testament to the idea that great food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—sometimes, it’s as simple as savouring a fantastic burger in a welcoming setting.

Last Place

Imagine the fusion of a cool 1980s RSA and a classic American dive bar, and you might capture the distinctive vibe of Last Place—like a plush lounge meets a slightly grungy, carpeted garage. Located in Hamilton, Last Place Bar is far from being relegated to the end of your night; in fact, it’s aptly set up to be the beginning, middle, or end of your evening, adapting seamlessly to your mood.

With an ambience that is low-lit, slightly edgy, and comfortably carpeted, Last Place Bar offers a diverse selection of beers, catering to all preferences—from good to bad and everything in between. Boasting one of the most extensive beer menus in the city, the establishment features 10 brews on tap and over 100 beers in the fridge, ranging from the classic Waikato Draught to the latest craft beer trends. 

For aficionados of wine, a carefully curated list awaits, and those in search of a nightcap can indulge in a whiskey highball on tap, along with an array of other premium whiskeys and gins.

In the realm of food, Last Place Bar satisfies with simple, mouth-watering snacks available during all hours of operation. Whether you crave burgers at 3 am or seek comfort food in the form of fries and grilled cheese toasties, Last Place Bar has you covered.

Setting itself apart in the live music scene, Last Place Bar fills a gap in Hamilton with its mid-sized gig venue accommodating about 150 people. The focus here is on original, live music, with gigs happening two to three evenings a week, not to mention the exciting karaoke nights.

Open from 4 pm until the early hours, Last Place Bar is a versatile destination. Whether you drop by for after-work drinks, dinner with friends, a live gig, or a late-night party, the friendly and passionate team at Last Place is always ready to welcome you with a smile. The bar was created as a place the team wanted to be, and it shows in the genuine warmth and enthusiasm that pervades the atmosphere. Stay updated on the latest happenings by checking their socials; Last Place has garnered a following, and it’s easy to see why.

Kirk Cafe

We’ve always been captivated by the unique inspiration that arises when a group of individuals shares an incredible experience and resonates on the same wavelength. This is precisely why, at The Kirk Café, our vision was to cultivate a community steeped in kindness, fueled by quality, and sustained by mutual respect.

Our establishment is more than just a café; it’s an experience-focused haven, dedicated to serving contemporary fusion food, providing attentive service, and brewing incredible coffee.

Throughout our journey, we’ve understood that people seek genuine, inclusive, and exhilarating café experiences. It’s evident that most visitors to The Kirk Café are drawn here with the intention of creating something special.

The exhilarating, communal atmosphere that initially inspired us continues to propel us forward. This is why, at The Kirk Café, we take immense pleasure in offering a space where people can come together to relish wholesome, innovative cuisine and delightful coffee—all served with passion by our dedicated team.

Sugarbowl

Indulge in New Zealand cuisine at this cafe, where the offerings include delectable Thai salads, eggs benedict, and brioche French toasts. Treat yourself to delightful pancakes, cronuts, and waffles for a truly satisfying experience. Pair your meal with the deliciously brewed coffee, and The Sugar Bowl Cafe also excels in serving great iced coffee, tea, or chocolate frappe.

Conveniently located, this place is easy to find, and its well-trained staff warmly welcomes visitors throughout the year. For those seeking professional service, The Sugar Bowl Cafe is a must-visit. Many patrons appreciate the reasonably priced dishes, finding them to be offered at democratic prices. The cafe exudes a peaceful atmosphere, complemented by tasteful decor. According to Google users, The Sugar Bowl Cafe has earned a commendable score of 4.3.

Now go and enjoy a nice lunch or Dinner out!!