Surf's Up in Raglan!

Your classic post-surf feed

If Raglan had a soul, it would probably smell like The Shack's kitchen on a busy morning. Perched on the sunny corner of Bow Street and Wainui Road, this award-winning local icon has been fuelling surfers, travellers, and townies for years — and it's exactly the kind of place you want after a morning watching the world's best ride Manu Bay.

Open seven days from 8am, The Shack serves up delicious coffee, satisfying breakfasts, tasty lunches and a divine dinner menu. The kitchen team seek out the finest local produce for their ever-changing daily specials, while the baristas keep the Rocket coffee kicking. Drop in for a quick takeaway flat white on your way to the point, or linger over a long brunch with friends.

It's relaxed, it's delicious, and it's very, very Raglan.

Good for: Families, gluten free options, casual dining

A neighbourhood gem worth knowing about

If you're staying in Hamilton and heading out to catch a heat at Manu Bay, Grey Street Kitchen in Hamilton East is the kind of breakfast stop that sets the whole day up right. This welcoming neighbourhood café serves Modern NZ cuisine with a genuine community feel — great coffee, fresh food made with care, and the sort of relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to linger.

Open seven days a week, Grey Street Kitchen is ideal for a morning fuel-up before the drive to Raglan, or a lazy lunch once you're back. Kids welcome, takeaway available, and the kind of honest, well-executed food that Waikato locals keep coming back for.

Good for: Families, takeaway, casual dining

For the post-event celebration (or consolation)

Set inside a beautifully converted historic church in the heart of Frankton, Good George Dining Hall is one of New Zealand's most iconic brewery dining venues — and the atmosphere alone is worth the drive from Raglan.

Good George brews some of Aotearoa's most celebrated craft beers and ciders, and the food menu matches the quality of the pints. Think hearty, crowd-pleasing dishes designed for groups — perfect for a crew who've spent the day at Manu Bay. Live music, outdoor seating, and a kid-friendly environment make this a great option for everyone.

Good for: Groups, families, live music, outdoor seating, gluten free

Genuinely great food, warm hospitality

About an hour from Raglan, Cambridge is well worth a detour for anyone exploring the Waikato region during the WSL event window. Alpha Street Kitchen & Bar is a standout — creative food, heartfelt service, and inviting style, all at genuinely good value.

Whether you're after a relaxed lunch between surf comp heats or a proper sit-down dinner at the end of a big day, Alpha Street delivers. Dog-friendly outdoor seating, family-friendly vibes, and a seasonal menu make this a restaurant worth knowing about — especially in a town as charming as Cambridge.

Good for: Families, groups, outdoor seating, dog-friendly, gluten free