Parua Bay Tavern — Restaurant in Northland

We've been here twice now, and I don't think we will be back.

The available tables had food and drink spills on them. I felt it was not clean. I did not see anyone clean the tables during the entire time we were there. The tables were bussed, so no dirty dishes were on them. Just dirty tables. We managed to find one table, sadly in the sun, that was clean enough to sit at. If it weren't for the fact that we were over hungry we would have left.

The service was fine, nice people and it was very quick to get the food. The food was not at all what we were expecting. We ordered a thin crust garlic pizza. Now this could be a cultural difference but when I see a garlic pizza on the menu, I'm expecting a pizza with sauce, cheese and garlic on a thin crust. For us this was basically cheesy garlic bread. It was not thin crusted and there was no pizza sauce. It was, for all intents and purposes, garlic bread in the shape of a pizza. I will cut them a break as I'm from another country where pizza always has sauce (unless it's a white pizza) and thin crust is thin.

Like I said the servers were good, unless it's their job to wipe down the tables, then that's their problem. But they were very nice and professional.

I can't even remember what we ate last time we were there but I do remember being very disappointed. But we thought that we should give it another try. Every restaurant has its off days, it just seems to be this one just isn't a good restaurant. I really don't like leaving a negative review, but in my opinion it's deserved.

**The owners got back to me about my review, which I appreciate. It was explained that they had many staff in isolation, they were short staffed. I've been in the restaurant business for many years in different countries. I also worked in Auckland at 2 different restaurants (at the same time). I really understand being short staffed. But in my experience cleaning tables is a very important job. Presenting your restaurant with dirty tables is a huge issue. Besides it being not nice to look at, it's unhygienic. Especially with COVID out there and you having staff that's come down with it. In my opinion, that should be a top priority. Like I said in my original review, the pizza thing could have been a cultural difference. It seems that's the case. Which is why I'm changing my rating to a 3 star review. Thanks for replying...

Great pub-style restaurant with beautiful views over the water that you can enjoy when the weather is good... if the weather is not so good they have some awnings that protect you from the wind and rain and only slightly spoil the view... but it's better to enjoy the food without the wind blowing your hair into your face or rain watering down your drinks. The food is flavorful and good portion sizes, especially the Crispy Cauliflower with Sriracha Mayo...it was large and scrumptious and too good to even think about stopping to take a photo! We also really enjoyed the Chicken and Feta stack which provided magnificent taste explosions with every bite of grilled chicken, feta and beetroot relish! The Olives and garlic pizza board added a lovely familiar flavor and the Karaage chicken finished off our tasting expedition with the perfect crunch and Asian tang. I will be dreaming of imitating the Crispy Cauliflower for years to come and insist on another visit when in...

What an absolute gem of a café! From the moment you walk in, the ambience sets the tone—warm lighting, tasteful décor, and a vibe that makes you want to linger a little longer. The cleanliness is impeccable, with every corner well-kept and welcoming. The food is nothing short of delightful—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Their pizza is a must-try; perfectly crisp base, generous toppings, and that authentic taste which instantly makes it a favorite. Pair it with one of their refreshing drinks and you’ll be hooked. The location couldn’t be better—easy to find, with a calm yet lively surrounding that complements the café’s character. What truly stands out is the hospitality—the staff are attentive, warm, and genuinely go the extra mile to make you feel at home. This place ticks all the boxes: ambience, cleanliness, amazing food, friendly service, and a signature dish you’ll be coming back for. Definitely a must-visit café and, trust me, you must...