Takapuna Beach Café, long cherished for its daytime charm, is now inviting guests to experience its captivating new evening service. With extended hours until 8pm daily, the café has truly become an all-day dining destination, perfect for an after-work catch-up, an early dinner or a pre-theatre meal.
"Launching a dinner menu and wine and beer list feels like Takapuna Beach Café has become a true all-day eatery," says operator James Bryant. "It’s been a welcome change, offering a great option for those looking to dine as the sun sets."
A taste of twilight
Chef Devon Pizarro has crafted a dinner menu designed for versatility, moving beyond the café's popular brunch fare. Diners can explore everything from tempting small plates to generous shared dishes, ensuring there's something for every occasion, whether it's a quick mid-week bite or a celebratory spread.
Complementing the food is a carefully curated wine list, focusing on premium New Zealand wines from boutique, often family-owned and certified organic wineries. As the weather cools, their selection of reds has proven particularly popular, including a "wonderfully complex" 13-year-old library release pinot noir from Waipara Valley producer Mon Cheval. Beer enthusiasts aren't left out, with legendary brews from Mussel Inn, such as the cult-favourite Captain Cooker Manuka Ale and the Monkey Puzzle Belgian Ale, which have proven to be a hit with customers.
James Bryant's personal recommendations include the deliciously savoury steamed mussels and the cheeseboard, featuring the "Very Old Edam" by Mahoe, which he assures that "everyone enjoys!"
Beyond the menu: Events and experiences
Takapuna Beach Café is also set to become a hub for special events. It recently hosted an inaugural winemaker's dinner with Master of Wine Sam Harrop, with plans for more events later in the year.
Looking ahead to August, the café will introduce a special winter sunset prix-fixe menu. For just $60, guests can enjoy a two-course meal paired with a glass of wine. The set menu, available only for the month of August, is designed to encourage North Shore residents to enjoy a night out during the cooler months, perfectly coinciding with 'Chicago' the musical at the Bruce Mason Centre for an ideal pre-theatre dining option.
Experience the evening charm
While visiting the beach after dusk may seem counterintuitive, James highlights the unique allure. "With views across the harbour, there’s a certain charm seeing the sun go down – even during wet weather," he says. "Our dining room is a lovely place to hunker down in and watch the tide come and go and the rain roll across the water. It’s the grandstand of the harbour."
Ready to experience Takapuna Beach Café's evening magic? Bookings are available from 4pm daily, including weekends.
Takapuna Beach Café
22 The Promenade, Takapuna
Open 7 days, 6.30am - 8pm (including public holidays with a 15% surcharge)
takapunabeachcafe.com
FB and Insta @takapunabeachcafe
