(December 6, 2012 – March 5, 2013)
There are many eateries in Kerikeri, and we certainly didn’t get to all of them. But we did have some favorites that I’d love to mention here, not just for anyone interested back in the US but for our fellow cruisers here in New Zealand. (It’s late in the season as I write this, but there are quite a few of us coming back next year). I will start with our four favorite places in Kerikeri (in no particular order) and one honorable mention.
Cafe Jerusalem
We heard great things about this place, and we weren’t disappointed. The food is Middle Eastern and is amazing; plus there’s a beautiful vine-covered patio where you can sit and enjoy your meal . I can’t say enough about this place. If you find yourself in Kerikeri, make it a point to check it out!
Aegean Pizzeria
This place is just off the main street and is easy to overlook. I was skeptical when we first went as they advertise kebabs, souvlaki, pizza and pasta, which seems like a strange combination of specialties to me. But then we had the Aegean Special pizza, one of the best things I’ve ever eaten in my life! We came back regularly and found the kebabs and souvlaki are also delicious (we never tried the pasta as that pizza was just too good to bypass again). The coffee drinks are great, as are the desserts—I especially recommend the Chocolate Marquise. This place is a gem!
Update: Last we were in Kerikeri, this place, sadly, had closed.
The Italians
This place is very special, and would be just as special in New York or Los Angeles as it is in Kerikeri. The chef/owner is Northern Italian and cooks the dishes of that region. The Italians is only open for dinner and can be pricey, but they have a pasta special on Thursday nights where you can get a pasta dish, bread, and a glass of wine for $25 NZD. For food of this caliber, it is a great bargain. Be warned: the food can take some time to get to your table, but it’s worth the wait. This place is not just something to seek out in Kerikeri, it is a reason to visit Kerikeri.
Update: The Italians has since lost their lease in Kerikeri and closed, but we’ve heard (but not confirmed) that they’ve re-opened their restaurant in Paihia.
The Pear Tree Bar and Restaurant
The food is really good, and the setting down by the river basin is spectacular. It can be pricey, but it’s wonderful for a special lunch or dinner out. We came here for lunch one day with some friends, and promptly made reservations for our Valentine’s Day dinner. It was perfect.
And the Honorable Mention:
Food at Wharepuke (yep, that’s the name of the restaurant)
The food is very good and the place is beautiful; so I’m not sure why this wasn’t a favorite. I guess it’s that the prices are a little high and the portions are a little small. That said, it’s worth going at least once to just enjoy the beautiful deck. Just don’t go with a big appetite, or swing by the McDonald’s up the street after you go. (I do hear they have a wonderful Thai buffet dinner on the weekend.) –Cyndi
