Papamoa Cafes: Our Top 5

Papamoa is a coastal suburb located in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand. It’s a popular holiday destination with beautiful beaches, great surf, and plenty of cafes to choose from. 

We have lived here for a while now we always use to head to a favourite cafe in Mount Maunganui, just a short drive down the coast as we have plenty of favourite cafes there. 

However, we have started staying local check out some Papamoa cafes. It’s always great to take friends and family to the local cafe scene when they visit.

Now that we have had time to explore, we certainly have our favourites. Whether it’s the food, the drinks, or the relaxed and in some cases beachy vibe. There really is something to suit everyones needs

Here are some of the best Papamoa cafes for you to check out:

Pearl Kitchen

If you’re looking for a delicious and unique dining experience in Papamoa, look no further than Pearl Kitchen. Located in the Coastal Boulevard. From the moment we walked into Pearl Kitchen, I knew we were in for a treat.

It’s a stylish eatery, offering a range of delicious food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.

In 2022 it was named Bay of Plenty’s most outstanding café in the Bay Hospitality Awards and you can see why.

The Bacon Bene is a must, this is what the Pearl Kitchen is known for.

They offer an extensive menu that includes a variety of All Day and lunch options, such as their famous Pearl seafood, eggs bene, zucchini and sweetcorn fritters, and waffles, plus loads more. 

As for the lunch menu the Pearl Kitchen has meat lovers covered with duck, beef, fish and chicken options. They also have a focus on using locally-sourced and organic ingredients wherever possible.

A staff shot of our owners/management team (Left – Right —> Dave, Kirsty, Justin, Chanel, Tanesha & Nigel)

There are also plenty of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options available, making it easy to cater to any dietary restrictions.

This Papamoa cafe is known for its range of organic coffee, with a variety of coffees, lattes and hot chocolates available. They also offer a selection of teas, fresh juices along with alcoholic beverages.

What also makes this one of our favourite Papamoa Cafes is that every Friday night (starting at 4 pm) they offer a happy hour (4 pm-6 pm). They also offer a range of food from their small plate and greedy plate menu. And if that doesn’t take your fancy then no doubt their pizza menu will. 

It’s the perfect way to spend a Friday evening with family and/or friends. 

This a sample of the the food served on Friday evenings, makes for the perfect night out

The cafe has indoor and outdoor seating available, with a beautiful outdoor courtyard area that’s perfect for enjoying a meal or drink on a sunny day. 

I cannot recommend Pearl Kitchen enough. The beautiful atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly staff make it a standout in the local cafe scene.

If you’re looking for a memorable cafe experience in Papamoa, make sure to add Pearl Kitchen to your list!

The scotch egg, this is a favourite at the Pearl Kitchen and you can see why

Henry and Ted

Henry and Ted is a popular cafe located in the Golden Sands area. They are known for their excellent coffee and delicious food, serving an All Day menu along with lunch dishes.

Their menu includes dishes such as Mother Hen, The Beast and Vegan Oaty Pancakes just to name a few within their All Day menu. 

Henry and Ted certainly is one of the popular cafes.

Their lunch meat offers a beef burger, pulled lamb, chowder and miso eggplants among other delicious possibilities. There is a kid’s menu too that will have kids wanting to return for more. They also offer gluten-free, kata, vegan and vegetarian options.

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a sweet treat, there’s something for everyone at Henry and Ted.

Both our boys love the pancakes, with a fluffy texture and delicious toppings like berry compote, Raglan vanilla yoghurt and maple syrup. They also serve a range of smoothies and juices that are both healthy and delicious.

This is my favourite, ‘Smith’s Granola’ filled with so much goodness

In addition to their food menu, Henry and Ted also offer a range of freshly baked pastries, cakes, and sweet treats.

Their cabinet is always stocked with an array of tasty options to choose from, including muffins, scones, and croissants.

Henry and Ted have a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating available. It’s a great spot to catch up with friends over coffee or enjoy a leisurely brunch on the weekend. 

One of the best coffees you will taste

Connie is always impressed with their coffee selection, which includes a variety of brews and espresso-based drinks. Her flat whites are always perfectly crafted and hit the spot.

I highly recommend Henry and Ted to anyone looking for a cozy and welcoming cafe with delicious food and great coffee.

Whether you’re stopping in for a quick snack or settling in for a long brunch, you won’t be disappointed by the quality and care that goes into every dish and drink at Henry and Ted.

The best way to start the day with this delicious breakfast

Blended Eatery

Blended Cafe is a cozy and inviting destination for anyone looking for a delicious coffee or meal.

As soon as you step through the door, you are greeted by friendly staff and a warm atmosphere, with natural wood accents and vibrant greenery creating a relaxed and welcoming ambiance. 

The menu at Blended Cafe is a standout, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a sweet treat, there is something for everyone.

Blended Cafe, great indoors and equally outdoors… on a sunny day

This includes a range of dishes, such as eggs benedict, french toast, granola and Posh Porridge, as well as lunch options including burgers, tacos and then a vegan smashed falafel burrito. 

Kids are treated with Waffles, Bacon & Egg on toast or Chick’n fries

They also have a great selection of cabinet food, including fresh wraps, sandwiches, scones and sweet treats. 

The sweet treats are amazing, donuts, slices, muffins… the challenge is choosing which treat to eat.

The challenge for Sawyer was choosing which slice after a busy day of helping Dad

Our kids were drooling.

Did someone say coffee? The baristas at Blended Cafe are experts in their craft, and the coffee is consistently delicious. Connie tried her favourite latte, which was perfectly smooth and creamy.

The cafe has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating available. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with great service and delicious food. 

Blended Eatery Papamoa cafe is a must-visit destination in for anyone looking for a tasty meal and great coffee in a trendy setting.

Sawyer loving every second, rated the slice 10/10

Gather Papamoa

Gather Papamoa is a cafe located right in the heart of Papamoa. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal or a cup of coffee while taking in the laid-back atmosphere of this area. 

The menu at Gather Cafe is a real standout, offering a range of dishes that cater to all dietary requirements.

Whether you’re a vegan, gluten-free or a meat lover, there is something on the menu that will satisfy your cravings.

Gather Cafe, a must stop for a smoothie, cuppa or a bite to eat

In addition to their brunch offerings, Gather Cafe also has a selection of sweet treats that are not to be missed. Our boys always take, what seems like hours, to make their choice.

The coffee here was great too, so Connie said. I opted for one of their smoothies and yep it couldn’t have been better. They also offer a selection of teas, hot chocolates, and freshly squeezed juices. 

As Gather Cafe is across the road from the beach we ordered our drinks in takeaway cups and sipped while we strolled along Papamoa Beach.

Lukas enjoying his chocolate cake

We are really glad that we stopped here, we only live a short distance we pretty much drive past it every day.

Well, we won’t be anymore.

Gather Cafe is a fantastic spot to grab a bite to eat in. The warm and welcoming atmosphere and delicious food make it a must-visit for anyone looking for a great cafe experience. 

Inside Gather cafe

The Sandbank

This is the spot, right on the beach. Honesty it’s hard to beat. 

The view from The Sandbank, it really it the perfect spot

Located in the carpark on Papamoa beach. To get there just drive into the Bluebiyou and Tasman Campground entrance of Papamoa Beach road.

Just follow the road around and as the beach comes into view you’ll see the carpark along with a 1986 Bedford Van.

The 1986 Bedford Van this is where great coffee and smoothies happen

Yep, the Sandbank is run out of this van and it runs off solar power. 

There is nothing better than waiting for your order while you watch the waves roll in, it’s the perfect beachy vibe and makes it one of the best Papamoa cafes for the view alone.

There serve a wide range of coffees, amazing smoothies and delicious smoothie bowls. There also offer a few taste Sandbank goodies.

Queueing up is no worries, not with the view to the right.

We always take our drinks and then walk along the beach watching the world go by… perfect.

I purchased a gift voucher here for Connie as part of her Christmas present, she pops down most Thursdays, grabs a cuppa and goes for a beach walk. 

Just remember they are only open when the sun is shining.

The Sandbank sign

Final Thoughts 

These Papamoa cafes are our personal favourites each with its own unique atmosphere and menu. From trendy and stylish spots to cosy and welcoming eateries, there’s something for everyone.

We are glad we explored our local spot a bit more rather than always heading to Mount Maunganui.

The cafe scene in Papamoa is definitely growing with new places opening up as this town continues to grow at a rapid pace. 

Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee and pastry or a full meal with friends, there’s a cafe out there that will suit your needs. It just depends on what you are looking for.

Many of these Papamoa cafes also offer outdoor seating and great coffee, making them the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or drink on a sunny day. 

If you’re visiting Papamoa or are a local looking for a new spot to try, make sure to check out some of the great cafes in the area.

You’re sure to find something that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling happy and satisfied. 

Note: No doubt this list will change/grow as new Papamoa cafes open up, can’t wait.

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