If eating is what you’ve come to do while you’re in the Waikato region, then you’ve hit the bullseye. Hamilton restaurants punch well above their weight in the eating and drinking scene, and the impressive quality of their offerings mean it’s not uncommon to find out-of-towners who have come specifically for a meal here.

From Asian fusion to fried chicken specialists, Hamilton restaurants have truly made a name for themselves around the country. Whether you’re stopping by for quick takeaways, or settling in for a fine-dining experience, the restaurants cater to all groups and necessities. With the beautiful Waikato River on their doorstop, some clever Hamilton restaurants ensure they make the most of their landscape drawcard - so settle in for a meal in the serene spot with the million dollar view that’s unrivalled by other big cities around the country. 

An abundance of local growers, farmers and producers means restaurants in Hamilton are nothing if not spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding what to include on their menu. From cheese makers, to bread bakers, Hamilton restaurants ensure they’ve got the best of the best to offer customers, and when the best comes from your neighbours it really is a no brainer.

Eat Your Way Around the World: Hamilton’s Best Global Eats

Food dishes being placed on the table at Saigon 60's.
Hamilton’s food scene is a passport in plate form, a vibrant mix of flavours, traditions, and culinary creativity drawn from every corner of the globe. From the sizzling woks of Malaysia and the street‑food buzz of Vietnam to the spice‑laden kitchens of India, the rooftops of Italy, and the sweet artistry of Asian‑inspired desserts, the city’s eateries are as diverse as the people who call it home.

Saigon ‘60s

Food vendor cart position outside the front door of Saigon '60s.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

Step inside Saigon ’60s and be instantly transported back to the golden era of 1960s Saigon, when French charm and Vietnamese flair intertwined in the city’s...

Penang Street Food

Building exterior of Penang Street Food.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

Penang Street Food brings to Hamilton’s Victoria Street the sights, smells, and flavours of a Malaysian street market, all captured in a relaxed, modern setting.

Madam Woo

Plates of food on a table at Madam Woo Hamilton.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

Madam Woo is a beloved fixture in Hamilton's dining scene, and for several years now, it’s been wooing its customers with far more than just its delicious food.

Made Hamilton

People hanging outside Made in Hamilton.
Place Hamilton
Bars key icon. Cafes key icon. Goods key icon.

Made has quickly become a must-visit destination in Hamilton East, being a hub of bustling retailers, foodies, creators and artisans.

The Green

High seats placed around a kitchen and bar area.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

When Chef Karl Martin-Boulton first shared his concept for The Green, people told him Hamilton wasn’t ready for something so innovative.

On A Roll

Dumplings in a bowl from On A Roll.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

On A Roll has clocked up a devout following of local foodies from all around Hamilton. The eatery itself is the embodiment of good vibes, whilst the menu will leave you salivating.

Dumpling House

Red hanging lanterns at Dumpling House.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

For hearty, authentic Chinese food, head straight to Dumpling House, a wholesome eatery serving up friendly vibes and even better dumplings. After operating for 12 years and opening two venues, this family-run establishment has truly made its mark on the Hamilton food scene.

Punnet Eatery

The outside of Punnet Eatery surrounded by big green bushes.
Place Hamilton
Cafes key icon. Restaurants key icon.

Nestled amongst fruit trees, herb bushes and shrubs, Punnet Eatery is a home away from home for visitors thanks to its homely interior, epic kids' playground and family-run ethos.

Walk This Way: Discover Hamilton's Laneways

Couple strolling down MADE laneway.
Hamilton’s laneways might not shout for attention, but that’s exactly their charm. Tucked between main streets and hidden behind unassuming facades, these pedestrian‑friendly pockets are made for wandering. They’re often blissfully free of traffic, rich with character, and brimming with independent businesses that reward the curious.

The Chilli House

Family sat at a table in the dining area.
Place Hamilton Editor's Pick
Restaurants key icon.

This (not so) hidden gem located in the CBD of Hamilton is somewhere you’ll want to put on your to-do list if you are traveling to Hamilton any time soon.

Mr. Pickles

Close up of a bartender garnishing a cocktail.
Place Hamilton Editor's Pick
Bars key icon. Restaurants key icon.

A fancy yet cheeky bar and restaurant all in one, come here for your after work drinks.

Garden Place Noodle Bar

Two customers at a table in Garden Place Noodle Bar, Hamilton.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

A cheap, cheerful place to grab a bowl of dumplings, steam buns and noodles all made by hand in the kitchen.

Banh Mi Caphe

Two of the Banh Mi cocktails, one in a tall tumbler and one in a coupe glass.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

A visit to Banh Mi Caphe is going to transport you straight to the streets of South East Asia.

Gothenburg

Outdoor seating on the patio at Gothenburg.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

Escape the city, come to the riverside and enjoy the best of Waikato cuisine at Gothenburg.

Chim Choo Ree

Front entrance to Chim Choo Ree, Hamilton.
Place Hamilton
Restaurants key icon.

An award-winning restaurant with a proud name for utterly delicious cuisine.