The Matakana - Village Pub

The Matakana Village Pub, Matakana - Bar Review

Vibe

Matakana’s classic– and formerly slightly tired – pub has been given a trendy makeover with retro chic décor, a spacious deck, and an outdoor fireplace.

Service

Ironing out a few opening month nerves and glitches when we visited, but very friendly and laidback. Hey, this is the country after all.

Drink's List

Macs, Lion Red and Speights on tap, as well as a couple of surprises in Moa Pale Ale and a passable lager dubbed Hand Cranked. The wine list covers most of NZ, but also include a few local tipples with wine from Brick Bay and Big Cock vineyards. No sniggering at the back please…

Feeling Peckish?

Think gastropub with lots of local produce – Mahurangi oysters served with a shallots and sherry vinegar, seafood from Leigh Fisheries, and cheesecake made with yoghurt Whangaripo Valley Buffalo Cheese. Good value burgers ($14) and bar snacks ($8 to $11) too.

The Bottom Line

We’re not sure what the old school locals think of the renovation, but with occasional DJs, live acoustic gigs and decent food, The Matakana Village Pub should be a top place to be over summer.

A Reason To Return

To move past the fish and chips and burgers to some of The Matakana’s more interesting starters. We’re eyeing up the char-grilled lamb fillet with babaganoush, buffalo cheese cheese and flat bread ($15), or the clam spaghetti with pickled fennel, chorizo and olives ($14).

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