Those familiar with Porirua will know the city is secretly a foodie’s paradise, and it wouldn’t be one without plenty of sweet treats. Here’s a selection to get those tastebuds tingling. Good luck choosing just one!
The Cake Café Plimmerton 15B Steyne Avenue, Plimmerton
The Cake Café Plimmerton lives up to its name – with treats on offer to sate even the sweetest tooth. In addition to their gorgeous custom cakes made to order, cupcakes are a popular treat, dished out by mum-and-daughter team Cate and Natalie.
The Regal Shortbread Co. 109 Discovery Drive, Whitby
Hidden away in Whitby, The Regal Shortbread Co. has quietly grown over the years into a household name around Porirua. Owner Anita is known for her decadent shortbread, along with other sugary goods such as ginger nut biscuits and South African milk tart.
Café Kaizen 17 Parumoana Street, Porirua City Centre
Tucked away inside Pātaka, Cafe Kaizen is the perfect spot to wind down and reflect with a sweet treat after browsing the artworks throughout the space. Head to the cabinet, where a selection of treats await - the renowned rhubarb shortcake is a popular go-to.
Local Authority 1/1 Walton Leigh Ave, Porirua City Centre
This pocket-sized coffee spot punches way above its weight, delivering a delectable array of both sweet and savoury options. Check out the doughnuts and bliss balls, then wash it all down with one of their fantastic smoothies.
Urban Bakehouse 25 Ulric St, Plimmerton
Located in an industrial corner of Plimmerton, Urban Bake House is a true local gem. Its selection of sweet goods, Danish pastries and legendary pies keep locals and visitors coming back again and again.
Supply Room 105 Mana Esplanade
This place boasts stunning views of the harbour, making it an ideal spot for catching up with friends while enjoying food and drink from their extensive menu.
Sandbar Mana 109 Mana Esplanade, Paremata
Sandbar Mana is the well-known ‘local’ in this part of town. Drop in for a few quiets and bar snacks or treat yourself to a full sit-down meal. On a nice day, sit out on their patio and enjoy the sunset.
Little Green Olive 4 Mana Esplanade, Paremata
With organic coffee, whole foods and tranquil views of Pāuatahanui Inlet, this is your spot for summer wellbeing.
Ruby's Cafe 99 Mana Esplanade
Just a short walk from Mana Station, Ruby’s Café is tucked away in a sheltered courtyard. This long-established café has a great reputation for tasty food, friendly service, and delicious coffee. Their outdoor dining area is also a popular spot for dog walkers.
Cafe Kaizen - Sit outdoors and enjoy the tranquillity of the Japanese garden while enjoying abundant cabinet food or yummy meals from Kaizen’s extensive menu. Visit Pātaka Art + Museum or visit them at 17 Parumoana St, Porirua.
Backyard Cafe - Lush green plants, freshly baked food and some of the best coffee in Porirua await you in the peaceful courtyard of Palmers Garden Centre in Plimmerton. Head down to 99-109 St Andrews Rd, Plimmerton or follow them on Facebook.
Supply Room and The Sandbar - With west-facing decks and patios for maximum sea views and afternoon sun, you may even catch a show of kite-boarders while sipping on a refreshing beverage. Follow them on Facebook or head down to 105-109 Mana Esplanade.
Get Fixed Bicycle Cafe - Perfectly positioned to take in the views at Harbour’s Edge, you can relax on a bean bag with a gelato or sip on a coffee while watching the kids play. Visit them at 16 Parumoana St or follow them on Facebook.
Plimmerton Fish Supply - Grab your iconic summer meal of fish and chips from one of New Zealand’s top-rated fish & chippies then stroll down to the beach at Plimmerton or Karehana Bay. Happy days! Find them at 2 Beach Road, Plimmerton or follow them on Facebook
Whitby Co-op Kitchen and Bar - This family-friendly restaurant on the banks of the Whitby Lakes is perfect for a burger and fries and sitting in the outside patio area with a glass of wine or craft beer. Head down to 69A Discovery Drive, Whitby or find them on Facebook
Ruby's Cafe - Head over to this favourite local spot, known for its great coffee, tasty treats, and delicious kai! Dogs are very welcome in the sunny outside seated area. Find them at 99 Mana Esplanade or follow them on Facebook
t bay cafe - Experience the Bay’s hottest café, known for great coffee, service and incredible food. Dogs are welcome on the deck or find a table in the courtyard. Find them at 26 Whitehouse Road, Titahi Bay or follow them on Facebook
The Karaage Kid - Park up at a table outside the Abandoned Brewery Taproom and tuck into your karaage chicken while you sip some tasty Abandoned Brewery beer. Follow them on Facebook or head down to 20 Parumoana Street.
“There is no sincerer love than the love of food” – said Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw.
