Mangawhai is well known for its exquisite and refined taste in food. With a host of local hot spots ready to tempt your taste buds, we’ve picked out five of the best places to eat in Mangawhai & Mangawhai Heads.

Bennetts of Mangawhai

For over 20 years, New Zealand’s finest artisan chocolates have been crafted at Bennetts of Mangawhai. The family owned establishment is very much a Mangawhai classic, with a strong focus on hand crafted quality rather than mass commercialism. This can be both seen and tasted, as Bennetts only uses fresh and local ingredients. If you’re after more than just sweet treats, there is an award winning café on site, open daily for breakfast and lunch. Put simply, Bennetts is able to provide a true taste of Mangawhai, harnessing distinctly Kiwi flavours, with an atmosphere that is impossible to recreate.

Location: 52 Moir Street
Website: bom.co.nz

Dune Café

In the heart of Mangawhai village, Dune Café is 'the spot' for both locals and holiday makers. Open for brunch, lunch or dinner, they have become known for their relaxed setting and delicious meals. The menu is also designed around locally sourced ingredients, including meat, seafood and organic produce. If you’re looking for a place to relax on a summer evening, Dune Café is sure to provide a dining experience that is authentically Northland.

Location: 40 Moir Street
Website: dunemangawhai.co.nz

Mangawhai Tavern

Located right on the water’s edge, the Mangawhai Tavern is one of the must visit places to eat in Mangawhai. Offering a more casual dining style, the Tavern is an integral part of Mangawhai’s identity and personality. It also regularly plays host to live entertainment from some of New Zealand’s most talented artists. Whether you prefer big shows or more intimate gigs, you’re bound to find some kiwi sounds you’ll enjoy. So if you’re after a chilled beverage, some classic pub food and a warm welcome, come and check out this fine harbourside establishment.

Location: 2 Moir Street
Website: themangawhaitavern.co.nz

Wood Street

If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Mangawhai Heads, you can’t go past Wood Street Pizzeria. It is a no nonsense, family friendly venue serving up cheesy goodness on the daily. The menu includes delicious pizza (of course), salads and munchies, not to mention a great selection of local craft beer and wine. If you’re also needing a place that keeps the young ones busy, Wood Street’s chalkboard tables and arcade games will do just that.

Location: 12 Wood Street
Website: woodstreetpizzeria.co.nz

Sandbar Eatery

The Sandbar Eatery has developed a reputation as another one of the favourite places to eat in Mangawhai Heads. Like many Mangawhai establishments, Sandbar has a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients, combined to perfection by the team in the kitchen. As a family owned business, you’re also guaranteed warm and friendly service every time. While relaxing in the sunny courtyard, you can enjoy a light bite to eat, or dinner with friends and family. If you’re just looking for something quick, they also offer 100% fair trade Atomic coffee, complimenting the delicious cabinet food. Be sure to drop by and mingle among the locals!

Location: 7 Wood Street
Website: sandbarmangawhai.co.nz