Waipū Food & Drink Guide
Eat, Drink, and Discover Waipū’s Best Cafés & Restaurants
Food is at the heart of Waipū’s charm, and the town is packed with welcoming spots to eat, drink, and relax. From beachfront cafés serving up great coffee and hearty breakfasts, to family-friendly restaurants and pizzerias pouring locally brewed craft beer, there’s something to suit every appetite. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite after a surf at Waipū Beach, enjoying fresh fish and chips in the sun, or sitting down for a long lunch with friends, Waipū’s dining scene blends local flavour with Northland hospitality. This guide brings together the best Waipū restaurants and cafés so you can easily find where to eat on your next visit.
Spotlight on McLeod’s: Brewing Success at Bream Bay
McLeod’s Brewery, nestled in Waipū, has grown from a local curiosity into a nationally recognized craft brewery—found in homes from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Its success is driven by a tight-knit, 10-person team centered around community and authenticity. Co-owner Geoff Gwynne credits their modest scale and strong local identity—rooted in Waipū’s immigrant Scottish history—for their staying power and popularity.
Each can is adorned with nostalgic artwork by acclaimed artist Sarah Larnach, evoking Northland’s coastal beauty. Their flagship beers—such as Longboarder Lager and Paradise Pale Ale—have earned top awards and cult followings, while innovative brews like the fruity-sour Cherimoya ale and the fiery Far North Chilli Pils add creative flair.
Despite industry pressures, McLeod’s remains dedicated to doing things on their own terms. Their head brewer, Jason Bathgate, is credited with elevating beer quality through skill, experimentation, and meticulous attention to detail. For the team, “survival is success” — sustaining their craft, community, and passion remains the ultimate goal.
