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.

Finest Fit Outs: Hamilton’s Most Aesthetically Pleasing Spaces

A customer being served by a staff member at Cafe Kopi.
Hamilton may not boast the same abundance of hotspots as New Zealand's larger urban centres, yet it harbours establishments that stand in a league of their own. Here you’ll find some of the finest fit-outs in the country.

Madam Woo

Plates of food on a table at Madam Woo Hamilton.
Place Hamilton
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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
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Made has quickly become a must-visit destination in Hamilton East, being a hub of bustling retailers, foodies, creators and artisans.

Rice Rice Baby

The bright pink and blue interior of Rice Rice Baby in Hamilton.
Place Hamilton
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When it comes to authentic Vietnamese fare, Rice Rice Baby in Hamilton doesn’t mess around.

The Green

High seats placed around a kitchen and bar area.
Place Hamilton
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When Chef Karl Martin-Boulton first shared his concept for The Green, people told him Hamilton wasn’t ready for something so innovative.

Dumpling House

Red hanging lanterns at Dumpling House.
Place Hamilton
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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
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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.

The Chilli House

Family sat at a table in the dining area.
Place Hamilton Editor's Pick
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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
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A fancy yet cheeky bar and restaurant all in one, come here for your after work drinks.

Hamilton’s Best Seats: Top Spots to Relax, Dine and Unwind

Hamilton's vibe is hard to pin down, but impossible to ignore. Emerging suburbs and hidden laneways lined with undiscovered gems paint the picture of a city undergoing an evolving urban transformation.

Garden Place Noodle Bar

Two customers at a table in Garden Place Noodle Bar, Hamilton.
Place Hamilton
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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
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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
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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
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An award-winning restaurant with a proud name for utterly delicious cuisine.