November 2021Hastings Hotspots
The sprawling Hastings District is home to not just orchards, vineyards and wineries, but also some of Hawke’s Bay’s hottest new eateries.
While many are concentrated on the revitalised East Block, others are tucked away down side streets or hidden among fruit trees.
To ensure you don’t miss a single delicious bite, check out the below list of some of our favourite eateries and bars in Hastings.
Asian Diner, photograph supplied
Asian Diner
408 Warren Street North (front building)
Decor to die for and just really good food. Asian Diner is the new kid on the block serving up an Asian fusion menu including dumplings on selected days. Plenty of dairy-free and vegan options too, which is ideal for the more enviro-conscious patrons. Dine-in or order online for pick-up and delivery!
Black Betty BBQ, photograph from Black Betty BBQ Facebook page
Black Betty BBQ
408 Warren Street North (back building)
Black Betty BBQ has long been a crowd favourite with their food truck offerings and has now brought their authentic approach to American Barbecue to the streets of Hastings. Check out the racks, juicy beef brisket or loaded hog tails for delicious meaty treats at their permanent residence on Warren St.
Brave Brewing Co., photography by Heather Liddell
Brave Brewery
205 Queen Street East
Brave Brewing Co. is the perfect place to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon with friends, accompanied by a cold bevvy that won't cost an arm and a leg. We like to think of Brave as our friendly neighbourhood brewery. With quality, flavourful beer served fresh and delicious pub eats, it certainly hits the spot!
Funbuns, photograph by Kirsten Simcox
Funbuns
300 Heretaunga Street East
A locally owned small business with an addiction to Bao buns. Funbuns make Gua Bao fresh in-store along with Korean fried chicken, loaded fries and dumplings drawing inspiration from street food all over Asia. We can confirm, loads of fun with great bao buns! Check out their extensive cocktail list as well.
Common Room, photograph supplied
Common Room
227 Heretaunga St East
Eclectic fun vibes are written all over this awesome little bar in Hastings. The Common Room has a relaxed atmosphere and a brilliant selection of drinks and tasty food combos. Plus, they've just expanded with a new garden bar! An excellent option for dinner, a catch up with friends or to see live shows!
Sazio Hastings East Block, photograph supplied
Sazio
215 Heretaunga Street East
Described as “a world-class pasta restaurant with great wine and wonderful staff” by Viva Magazine’s Jesse Mulligan, you’ll want to book to get into Sazio. The folk here believe the key to a fulfilled life is something pretty simple and that something is fullness, something they can certainly help with! Tuck into a plate of spaghetti with a side of sourdough focaccia and you will not be disappointed. Buon Appetito!
Hastings Distillers, photograph by Kirsten Simcox
Hastings Distillery
231 Heretaunga Street East
Walk into Hasting’s Distillery’s Tasting Room on Heretaunga St and prepare to be transported. This exquisite offering from New Zealand’s first producer of organic spirits is spectacular. Former wine makers, Kate Galloway and David Ramonteu had a vision to transform a former Hastings book store into a craft gin distillery, offering tastings, cocktails and seasonal specials. Get your ginspiration going here folks, with a hub of energy and a building you’ll want to selfie with.
Three Wise Birds, photograph by Kirsten Simcox
Three Wise Birds
1412 Pakowhai Road, Tomoana
Three Wise Birds has taken the Hawke's Bay cider scene by storm, serving outstanding, locally-brewed cider just outside of Hastings. With great vibe and an outdoor area with that classic 'kiwi-backyard' relaxed feel, this is a supreme spot for a drink and a bite to eat on a sunny Hawke’s Bay day!
Cupple, photograph supplied
Cupple
216 Heretaunga Street East
Top-notch coffee, excellent vibe and yummy pastries. Cupple is one of our favourite coffee spots in Hastings City, serving up Firsthand beans. Super-friendly accommodating staff effortlessly create a relaxed, welcoming environment to enjoy your daily fix.
Roosters, photograph supplied
Roosters
1470 Omahu Road
Lucky last, Roosters Brewhouse is an excellent spot to visit after biking around Hastings’ wineries. Try a tasting tray where you can sample five beers on tap. Pair it with a delicious burger or salad and you’ve got a classic Hawke’s Bay afternoon. There’s plenty of games to keep the kids occupied, plus the outdoor garden bar is dog friendly!
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