2 Best Restaurants in Tauranga, Coromandel and the Bay of Plenty

There’s a vintage retro feel at this unassuming café that belies the amazing fresh-baked goods produced within. Expect pastries, breads, cakes, panini, and other sandwiches, and some truly fantastic cakes like the passionfruit curd cake. "Sammies" and lots of vegetarian options are on the menu, the coffee is consistently good, and tea lovers can choose from a list of organic, loose-leaf flavors. The place is loved by the locals and if you eat in you’re likely to get to know them at the big communal tables.

This contemporary steak house in Mount Maunganui has an industrial chic interior with a black, white, and wood design, and a menu that showcases some of beef. Choose from Scotch fillet, Wagyu fillet, or ribeye on the bone; you also get to select your own elaborate steak knife. The fire and embers of the closed Mibrasa oven gives the dishes a charcoal flavor. Meat aside, the menu also features excellent fish and vegetable options, as well as an extensive wine list featuring top New Zealand wineries.