The Blue Door Paihia — Restaurant in Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community

A Culinary Gem.

If you're in Paihia and looking for a dining experience that captures the essence of coastal New Zealand, Blue Door is an absolute must-visit. Located just across from the beach, the setting is nothing short of stunning. With ample seating both indoors and outdoors, you can enjoy your meal with a view of the ocean or nestled in the restaurant’s beautifully designed interior. The ambience is relaxed yet refined—perfect for a casual lunch or a romantic evening out.

Now, let’s talk about the food—because wow, what a journey.

Kawakawa Oysters: We started with these raw beauties, lightly drizzled with chilli sauce. They were incredibly fresh—you could taste the ocean in every bite. We also tried the batter-fried oysters, which were perfectly crispy and paired wonderfully with a smoky chipotle mayo.

Lamb Roti: This dish was pure comfort. The lamb was tender and falling apart, seasoned to perfection. The roti underneath soaked up all the delicious juices without getting soggy, and the accompanying salad was fresh, crisp, and dressed just right.

Cauliflower Popcorn: A delightful surprise—crispy, well-seasoned, and served with a creamy vegan mayo that tied it all together.

Crispy Calamari: Cooked to perfection, not rubbery at all. The winter salad and chipotle mayo added a refreshing and spicy balance.

Market Fish: This dish was, quite frankly, like sex in my mouth. The fish was cooked flawlessly—moist, flaky, and bursting with flavor. The red Thai curry sauce was rich, aromatic, and absolutely divine.

Fish and Chips: A Kiwi classic done right. The fish was fresh, flaky, and encased in a golden, crispy batter. The chips were spot-on—crunchy on the outside, fluffy inside. Simple, but executed with excellence.

Chocolate Bomb: A showstopper dessert. Watching the hot chocolate melt the dome was like a scene from Alice in Wonderland. The combination of chocolate soil, berry sorbet, and other elements was magical.

Toffee Banana Rolls: These were indulgent and comforting. The toffee rum sauce was a standout, pairing beautifully with the vanilla ice cream and crispy banana spring rolls.

Beyond the food, the service was exceptional. The front-of-house staff were warm, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they do. The menu is thoughtfully curated, showcasing fresh, local ingredients—especially from the ocean.

Blue Door isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through Paihia, this place deserves a spot at the top of your list. Thank you to the team for an...

My partner and I had the most delightful dining experience at this restaurant, and it deserves every bit of these five stars! From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the incredible ambience. The decor is tastefully done, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. It's the perfect blend of elegance and coziness, making it an ideal spot for any occasion. Now, let's talk about the food - it was nothing short of spectacular! Each dish was a masterpiece in itself. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was impeccable. Whether you're a foodie or simply someone who appreciates a good meal, this place will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. What truly sets Blue Door apart is the breathtaking scenic view it offers. I had the pleasure of dining while overlooking a stunning landscape that added an extra layer of enchantment to the evening. It's not every day you get to enjoy such a beautiful backdrop while savouring a delicious meal. Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to access the restaurant. Convenient parking and a welcoming staff made the entire experience hassle-free. It's a rare gem in terms of location, especially when you consider how serene and tranquil it is despite being so accessible. Blue Door Paihia is a hidden gem that I can't recommend enough. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable dining experience, this place has it all - incredible ambience, mouthwatering food, a breathtaking scenic view, and easy access. It's a five-star experience through...

Verse 1 Yo, I’m rollin’ through Paihia, feelin’ the scene, Hit The Blue Door, it’s a foodie dream. Ordered up a chicken burger, lookin’ supreme, Mar-tin, flavour king, call me the cuisine fiend.

Sat on the deck, ocean views all around, But I reached for my water, and man, it went down. Splashed on the table, my pride took a hit, Nearby table laughin’, like, “Yo, nice slip!”

Chorus The Blue Door’s open, step inside, Got chicken burgers stacked, and the view’s worldwide. I spilled my drink, but I kept my cool, This place still has rules, I ain’t no fool.

Verse 2 Yo, the guy next table over? He’s got jokes to spare, He’s laughin’ so hard, I’m like, “Pull up a chair!” But I play it cool, gotta keep my rep, Then the waiter slips again, man is like “Yo, you need help!”

The guy next table’s like, “Bro, need a towel?” I laughed it off, said, “I’m just gettin’ wild!” The staff swung by with a nod and a grin, I said, “Forget the spill—just bring me seconds again!”

Chorus The Blue Door’s open, step inside, Got chicken burgers stacked, and the view’s worldwide. I spilled my drink, but I kept my cool, This place still rules, I ain’t no fool.

Bridge The burger’s so good, I’ll forgive my mess, Every bite’s like a flavour-packed success. And the dude laughin’? Now we’re crackin’ jokes, The Blue Door vibes turn strangers into folks.

Outro So if you’re in Paihia, lookin’ to eat, Hit The Blue Door up, they’ll make your meal complete. Even if you spill, man, the laughs don’t hide, Chicken burger in hand, ocean...