The Duke of Marlborough

Located right on the waterfront in Russell. Serving up delectable delights for lunch and dinner the Duke of Marlborough Restaurant is at the heart of this historical hotel.  The menu showcases locally sourced seasonal produce, presenting a new take on classic favourites. Perfect for those seeking restaurants in Russell NZ.

Being surrounded by water, the menu is influenced by the sea and all it has to offer - from the local Waikare Inlet Oysters, their oven roasted market fish, to the timeless fish and chips served in a crisp beer batter with hand cut chips - and is simply divine!  Carnivores will not be disappointed, their dishes include classic slow roasted lamb shoulder or Grass Fed “Savannah” Eye Fillet - there is something for everyone.

Every menu contains vegetarian options and they can cater to most dietary requirements as well.  The beverage list is extensive with over 100 wines and 30 beers, all of which are specially chosen to compliment their menu.

Open 7 days a week from 11:30am to 9pm (reservations recommended).

The Gables Osteria & Enoteca

Sitting right on the Russell waterfront in a beautifully preserved 1847 building, The Gables Osteria & Enoteca is an historic landmark with a thoroughly modern love of food and wine.

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Family owned since 1980 and tastefully refurbished in 2023, The Gables is now a relaxed, coastal osteria serving fresh, house-made pasta and Italian-inspired dishes that showcase Northland’s outstanding produce. Think kingfish crudo with caper berries and Keri keri citrus or fluffy house-made focaccia with burrata and Northland olive oil. Locally caught seafood, including whole fish, seasonal vegetables from small-scale growers and quality meats are treated with a light, confident touch, resulting in food that is generous, vibrant and easy to share.

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Large windows and plenty of outdoor seating put you almost on the water’s edge, with views across the bay and truly memorable sunsets. A focused list of Northland and Italian wines from boutique producers as well as Italian-style cocktails and local craft beers completes the picture – a laid-back waterfront spot made for lingering.

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During summer the Enoteca operates as a cellar door for outstanding local vigneron Jake Dromgool’s 144 Islands (click here to learn more). Stop in for a casual tasting of wines, vermouths and aperitifs and take home a bottle of something you love.

Bookings are recommended, particularly during peak summer months.

Hone’s Garden

Hone’s Garden in Russell is a tropical oasis you can easily get lost in. Tucked away at 10 York Street, this laid-back beer garden offers shelter beneath lush foliage with a particularly friendly and laid back vibe. 

Locals and travellers alike praise the fantastic wood-fired pizzas with inventive toppings. Rumour has it their Pizzaiolo has been throwing dough for over 20 years. Also serving tacos and fresh fish & chips, plus great salads, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Wash that down with fun cocktails, like their world famous coconut marg, craft beers on tap, including their very own Garden Hazy or a boutique New Zealand wine. 

The atmosphere is casual, joyful and ideal for catching up with family or friends. On sunny afternoons, the garden becomes a dreamy retreat, and evenings hum with warm lighting and good conversation. The space is particularly popular for larger groups and celebrations which can be booked in advance, otherwise it’s first in first served.

Everyone visiting the Bay of Islands comes to Hone’s at least once.

SEASIDE

Enjoy Russell’s favorite waterfront dining experience at Seaside, the perfect spot to drop in for a drink, quick bite or a main meal with friends and families. With a ray of sunshine the whole year round, they enjoy unbeatable panoramic views of the big blue accompanied by a soothing soundtrack of the ocean. Enjoy the morning sunrise with a scrumptious breakfast and lovely coffee on the deck before settling down to a beautiful range of dishes and some incredible plates inside the whitewashed, beachy dining room.

Their bar has something to offer for everyone, from handcrafted and classic cocktails to a range of New Zealand and International Beers & Wine that you would love to fall for.

They can accommodate up to 75 pax and love to be a part of your big celebration; Birthdays, Functions, Farewell or Office Party, or any other get together. Delightfully intimate and relaxed, soak in the atmosphere at your own pace, take in the stunning views whenever the mood takes you and savor this magical moment in time.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 8.00 am to late. All day, every day.