Mary's

Looking for a neighbourhood restaurant where the vibe is that perfect mix of casual, approachable, yet effortlessly sophisticated? Mary’s in Havelock North fits this brief to a tee.   

The result of a partnership between the award-winning Craggy Range winery and head chef Casey McDonald, Mary’s feels like it wouldn’t be out of place in the dining scene of Melbourne or San Francisco. There’s a chic and elevated nature to the restaurant with thoughtful details and touches all around, from the navy leather bench seating and the luxurious yellow drapes to the prints on the wall that showcase different scenes and places from around the world. If you have a seat inside, from most tables you have a great view of the bar and the chefs at work in the open kitchen. Outside in the courtyard, the terrazzo-covered tables provide the perfect backdrop to any food ‘gram or ‘tok you might want to capture. 

As Mary’s is a collaboration with Craggy Range, be prepared to be blown away by the food—make sure you come hungry, as you’ll want to try everything! The bistro-style menu is a mix of favourites that we all know and love, plus dishes with a more inventive spin. We’re talking fried chicken and fresh oysters (when in season) for entrées, while the main event heroes the protein on the plate, such as slow-cooked lamb and eye fillet. 

All of this incredibly delicious food is accompanied by a wine list that is exclusively Craggy Range (except for some sparkling and champagne options). Mary’s also takes great pride in its cocktail game and on a sunny Hawke’s Bay day, it’s hard to beat sitting out in the courtyard with an Aperol Spritz in hand.  

With reputation and pedigree behind them, Mary’s does not disappoint, and this is exactly the kind of neighbourhood restaurant you’ll wish you had around the corner from your house.