Tauranga

International Dining Guide for Tauranga, New Zealand

Tauranga, located in the Bay of Plenty region, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beaches, relaxed lifestyle, and growing food scene. While it has a strong focus on fresh, local produce and seafood, Tauranga also offers a diverse range of international cuisines to cater to its multicultural population and visitors. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the international dining scene in Tauranga.

---

1. Types of International Cuisines Available

Tauranga’s dining scene reflects a mix of global influences, with options ranging from Asian and European to Middle Eastern and Pacific cuisines. Here are some of the most popular international cuisines you can find:

• Asian Cuisine: Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Indian, and Korean.
• European Cuisine: Italian, French, and Mediterranean.
• Middle Eastern Cuisine: Turkish and Lebanese.
• Pacific and Oceanic Cuisine: Polynesian and Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
• American Cuisine: Burgers, BBQ, and Tex-Mex.
• Fusion Cuisine: Many restaurants blend local New Zealand ingredients with international flavors.

---

2. Popular Restaurants and Food Spots

Here are some highly recommended international dining spots in Tauranga:

Asian Cuisine

• Rice Rice Baby (Mount Maunganui): A trendy spot offering modern Asian fusion dishes with a focus on fresh, bold flavors. Try their bao buns and dumplings.
• Izakai Bar & Eatery (Mount Maunganui): A Japanese-inspired restaurant with a Kiwi twist. Their sushi platters and sake pairings are a must-try.
• Great Spice Indian Restaurant (Bethlehem and Tauranga CBD): Known for authentic Indian curries and tandoori dishes. Their butter chicken and naan bread are local favorites.

European Cuisine

• Volare (Tauranga CBD): An Italian restaurant specializing in wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta. Their tiramisu is highly recommended.
• Clarence Bistro (Tauranga CBD): A fine-dining experience with French and European-inspired dishes. Located in a historic post office building, it’s perfect for a special occasion.
• Mediterraneo Café (Mount Maunganui): A casual spot offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes like falafel, hummus, and fresh salads.

Middle Eastern Cuisine

• Turkish To Go (Tauranga CBD and Mount Maunganui): A popular chain for quick and delicious kebabs, wraps, and Turkish pizzas.
• Hello Banh Mi (Mount Maunganui): While primarily Vietnamese, this spot also incorporates Middle Eastern flavors into their fresh, healthy dishes.

American Cuisine

• Astrolabe Brew Bar (Mount Maunganui): Known for its American-style burgers, BBQ ribs, and craft beer selection.
• Sal’s Authentic New York Pizza (Tauranga CBD): A go-to for large, cheesy New York-style pizzas.

Fusion and Pacific Cuisine

• The Rising Tide (Tauranga CBD): A craft beer bar and eatery offering a mix of Asian and Pacific-inspired dishes, including poke bowls and bao buns.
• Solera (Mount Maunganui): A modern fusion restaurant blending New Zealand ingredients with global flavors.

---

3. Average Dining Costs

Dining costs in Tauranga vary depending on the type of restaurant and meal. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Casual Dining: $15–$25 NZD per person (e.g., kebabs, burgers, or sushi).
• Mid-Range Restaurants: $25–$50 NZD per person (e.g., Italian, Thai, or Indian meals with drinks).
• Fine Dining: $50–$100+ NZD per person (e.g., French or fusion cuisine with wine pairings).

Tipping is not mandatory in New Zealand, but it is appreciated for excellent service (typically 5–10%).

---

4. Reservations and Dining Customs

• Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially during weekends or peak tourist seasons (summer months: December–February), it’s advisable to book in advance. Many restaurants offer online booking through their websites or platforms like First Table.
• Dining Hours: Most restaurants open for lunch (11:30 AM–2:30 PM) and dinner (5:30 PM–9:30 PM). Some casual spots and cafes may close earlier.
• BYO (Bring Your Own): Some restaurants allow you to bring your own wine, often for a small corkage fee (around $5–$10 NZD). Check with the restaurant beforehand.

---

5. Navigating the City for Dining

Tauranga is a relatively compact city, and most dining spots are concentrated in a few key areas:

• Tauranga CBD: The city center has a mix of casual and fine-dining options, with many restaurants located along The Strand, a waterfront promenade.
• Mount Maunganui: A popular beachside suburb with a vibrant dining scene, including international cuisines and trendy cafes.
• Bethlehem and Papamoa: Suburban areas with family-friendly restaurants and takeaway options.

To find restaurants, you can use apps like Google Maps, Zomato, or TripAdvisor, which provide reviews, menus, and directions. Many restaurants also have active social media pages where they post updates and specials.

---

6. Cultural and Practical Considerations

• Dietary Preferences: Tauranga’s restaurants are generally accommodating of dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options. It’s always a good idea to inform the staff when ordering.
• Local Ingredients: Many international restaurants incorporate New Zealand’s fresh, local produce, seafood, and meats into their dishes, giving them a unique twist.
• Casual Atmosphere: Dining in Tauranga is typically relaxed and informal, even in higher-end establishments. Smart-casual attire is usually sufficient.
• Sustainability: Many restaurants in Tauranga emphasize sustainability, using eco-friendly packaging for takeaways and sourcing ingredients locally.

---

7. Special Events and Food Markets

For a more casual international dining experience, check out Tauranga’s food markets and events:

• Little Big Markets (Mount Maunganui): A monthly market featuring food trucks offering global street food, from Mexican tacos to Japanese takoyaki.
• Night Owl Cinema Events: Outdoor movie nights often accompanied by food stalls serving international cuisine.
• Tauranga Farmers Market: While primarily focused on local produce, you can also find international-inspired baked goods and snacks.

---

Conclusion

Tauranga’s international dining scene offers something for everyone, from casual street food to fine dining experiences. With its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and a laid-back atmosphere, you’ll find that dining in Tauranga is as much about enjoying the food as it is about soaking in the city’s coastal charm. Whether you’re craving sushi, pizza, or a hearty curry, Tauranga’s diverse culinary offerings are sure to satisfy your taste buds.