Five Star Review Restaurants on Waiheke Island

Receiving five stars is no mean feat. It takes our whole team. From the gardener to the distiller, to the event manager, to every single chef playing his part. The whole team must be in alignment, and the bar team need to make drinks that are delicious and delivered to the table on time. Which leads us to the incredible team who look after you, whether you are eating or tasting, and enjoying the property.

We are just two years old, and we are incredibly grateful for the reviews you leave. These help other travellers and first time visitors, as well as Waiheke Island residents, to find us and give them the confidence to visit.

Thank you x

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Heke is a must do when visiting Waiheke. We were there for dinner last night and had their classics, Smash Burger and Southern Fried Chicken, washed down with Heke beer, and it was amazing. So amazing we had to go back at lunch today to try the puffed bread, the baked fish, chicken kebab and roasted pumpkin … all were next level good. The team were fabulous and the setting is so cool. The kids also loved the grounds and the bouncy pillow. Just booked to go again! - Justin Dec 2023

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had the most incredible experience at The Heke! First time visitors and we were impressed. The service was fast and friendly, food was amazing and affordable and the venue was beautiful! We will be back. Thanks team! Brooke 2024

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beware.. you may find yourself cancelling other lunch arrangements to return to Heke a second.. third or maybe fourth time. These guys have amazing food, beer, spirits and tastings. There’s a reason these guys have 300+ 5 star reviews. Amazing atmosphere and seating options also.
My wife and I attended on our honeymoon and staff bent over backwards for us. She is gluten intolerant (and me by proxy) and we probably had one of the best pizzas I’ve had in my time forcibly eating gluten free bases. Can’t rate this highly enough.
Beers are good and tasting paddles are great value. Dog friendly. Kid friendly. Allergy friendly. Sitting for 2 hours drinking great beer friendly. - Blake 2023

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ One of the best dining experiences I have ever had at Waiheke. Waiheke is our family’s favourite day trip destination, but I can't believe how we could have missed the Heke Kitchen before. Very friendly staff and the foods are just beautiful. The smashed burger is a must-have and remember to add crispy bacon. Decent sized pizza is enough for two kids to share. Lastly, if you are a craft beer lover, you have to try their APA and hazy.
Will definitely come back again. - Dan - Dec 2023

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recently visited HEKE on Waiheke Island for lunch and I must say, it was a delightful experience. The location is gorgeous with stunning views of the rolling Waiheke landscape. The restaurant has a nice open feel to it and would be perfect for couples or larger groups of people.
To start off, we ordered the Tuna Tartare which was absolutely delicious. The combination of tuna, preserved lemon, Allpress extra virgin olive oil, baby capers and lemon wedge was incredibly refreshing and the perfect way to kick off our lunch session. We also ordered the Smoked Fish Whip which came with whipped smoked fish dip, lemon, herbs, capers, shallots, pickled vegetables and grilled house baked focaccia. This was the perfect combination and we couldn't have been more satisfied.
For our main courses, I ordered the Classic Margherita Pizza which had a san marzano tomato base, fior di latte, basil, and parmesan. The pizza was absolutely bang on with quality fresh ingredients and was incredibly satisfying. My partner who is a burger lover ordered the Heke Smash Burger which came with two house-made beef patties, cheese, smoked mayo, pickles, onion, mustard, ketchup and added bacon. She said it was one of the best burgers she has had and loved the smokiness.
Overall, I highly recommend HEKE as a great option for those looking for something different to do on the Island other than the usual vineyards. The service was excellent and the set up was fantastic. It's a great place to visit for those looking to spend a bit less than at a winery. Don't miss out on this gem of a restaurant! - Ashwin - May 2023

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This is a very special place!! Set up, vibe, food, service all impeccable. From the moment we arrived we were made to feel extremely welcome - big shout out to Harry our server! Every dish was exceptional and their beer delicious! We can't wait to come back and even bought our parents gift vouchers for Christmas. We'll be back soon! - Kirsten 2023

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Came over for my sons cricket match and struck such a beautiful day, we all headed to Heke after for lunch. On the recommendation of our opponents parents. The menu was so varied and the meals amazing, incredibly tasty. Had the fish and the chermoula sauce was delicious as was the silver beet. Even the fries were next level. And of course the chicken was a hit.
Service was fast and easy. Splendid place for kids to run around and the garden setting and views were incredibly relaxing. Planning out next trip!
Dietary restrictions: Well labelled and plenty to choose from.
Kid-friendliness: Excellent for kids and spacious for them to run around. - Kirsten - 2023