The Works

As soon as you pull up to The Works, you know you’re in for something special. Set in the last remaining building of the Kaiti freezing works in the Inner Harbour, there’s no other place like it in Gisborne.

Before you’ve had a chance to pick up a menu, your eyes are immediately treated to a feast of delicious sights. Exposed brick walls envelop the entire heritage space, with sturdy timber ceilings, industrial metal features, polished concrete floors and warm caramel tones coming together to create a charming and inviting atmosphere. It has that magical quality of feeling intimate and cosy during winter, yet light and spacious in summertime with outdoor tables set under a lush canopy of vines.

Luckily, the food is just as appetising as the aesthetic, with a huge focus on creating original dishes that reflect the freshest produce of the season. Open every day from breakfast through to dinner, you really can expect the full works here. Mornings are an egg enthusiast’s paradise with a range of dishes dedicated to this breakfast staple, alongside brunch classics like pancakes, waffles and french toast covered in fruity and decadent toppings. Come lunchtime, vibrant and interesting salads hit the pass, accompanied by toasted wraps with elevated fillings (hello confit duck leg), a concise pizza menu and some long-time favourites like the pork belly karaage sandwich. 

The kitchen crew really flex their skills in the evening, with modern bistro plates that celebrate the abundant produce of the East Coast’s waters, land and gardens. Make the most of the wine and beer list which stars some of the best local drops in the region, or have one of the bartenders whip you up your favourite cocktail. 

The restaurant’s unique setting makes it perfect for casual get-togethers as much as grand celebrations, so it’s no wonder they’ve opened the space to regularly host parties of up to 200 guests. Few occasions wouldn’t warrant a visit to The Works, and their friendly, energetic team will always welcome you back with open arms.