What’s not to love about Auckland’s Devonport? Nestled underneath not one but two majestic volcanoes, it boasts beautiful Victorian villas, stunning views, art galleries and trails to white-sand beaches. Best of all, it’s just a 12-minute scenic ferry crossing from the bustle of the city. 

But it’s the melting pot of delicious cafes, bistros, wine bars, even a specialty chocolate shop which captivates visitors to linger longer in this cutie pie village by the sea. We’ve rounded up the places to eat Devonport’s best food, once you’ve zipped around the must-see Devonport attractions on your segway Magic Broomstick tour.

Modern New zealand pub food and stunning sea views

That’s what you’ll get at the Kestrel and what’s more, it’s right on the Devonport Wharf so you can dive in there straight off the city ferry for a feed and take in the city views across the harbour. They’re super serious at this Pub style eatery about serving quality ingredients so only serve up sustainably line caught fish, ethically farmed meats and free range chicken, pork and eggs  from their zero-waste kitchen. Now that’s guilt-free eating with some live entertainment to go with it.

Best bistro (for people watching too)

If you’re more a sharing plates kind-of-diner, then pop into nearby Devon On The Wharf for a bite to eat. This all-day Turkish-inspired eatery has a lovely waterside vibe and light, airy feel. Take in the frazzled ferry commuters and wandering tourists over the rim of your wine glass as you tuck into tapas-style dishes of halloumi chips with apricot honey sauce, finger-licking lamb ribs or their delicious Paifika-style ceviche. Devon on the Wharf earns a well-deserved spot on your ‘best places to eat Devonport’ shortlist.

Where the locals in-the-know go

One of the best Devonport cafés to mix and mingle is surely the charming Lily Eatery.  Hidden away down a tiny lane in a heritage warehouse, it’s well off the beaten tourist track. The team at Lily serve up piping hot Eight thirty coffee and killer smoothies in their sunny courtyard and a short but sweet brunch menu designed to satisfy the heartiest of appetites. We can’t go past the mushroom omelette, the eggs ‘benny on rosti’ or what the local’s describe as the best ‘French toast in the land.’  That’s if you can get past the cabinet groaning with homestyle slices, delectable savoury muffins and quiche.  This spot will provide the perfect setup for a segway Devonport sightseeing tour with your Magic Broomstick guide.

Bon Appetit! Picnic anyone?

Pack a rug and grab your pastries and picnic supplies from the friendly folk at Devonport’s So French Café, based in the original village post office. Their authentic brioche and croissant are made fresh daily while the waffles, savoury galettes and light-as-air crepes are made to order while you practice your school-day French. There’s no better place to experience delicious French food with flair then here. And hey where else in the world can you picnic on the top of a volcano?  

Best sweet treats Devonport

Get the real scoop on what’s cool in the village from the creamy dreamers at Devonport Gelato, based at the elegant Vic cinema. Choosing what handmade flavour to have from their mouth-watering selection of raspberry, pistachio, tiramisu, Italian choc chip and more, will be your toughest decision of the day. Ask for a taster or two of their heavenly rainbow display to help make up your mind before enjoying an icy treat in the Devonport sunshine.

For a different dose of decadence, then head to mother-and-daughter owned Devonport Chocolates, for the best truffles, salted caramels, chocolate brittle and creamy hot chocolate in the village. 

Best twilight dining

The superb Vic Road Kitchen should definitely be on your best restaurants Devonport list at the end of a day’s sightseeing. This popular bistro prides itself on its ever-changing menu and homemade pasta designed to keep the locals on speed dial. On any given night, you could enjoy the rustic Mediterranean tastes of whole wood-roasted flounder, squid ink spaghetti, or wood-fired green-lipped mussels. Then top off your day with a night cap (or espresso martini) at their sister establishment, the stylish Vic Road Wine Bar or the waterfront Esplanade Hotel, before cheerfully rolling onto the ferry to enjoy the twinkling skyline of city lights.

While we’ve hopefully whetted your appetite on Devonport’s best restaurants and cafes, please ask the Magic Broomstick team for up-to-date information on Devonport activities to do following your segway tour. We’ll steer you in the right direction!

Would you like to give a Magic Broomstick segway tour a go?