Palate Restaurant

Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
346 Victoria Street, Hamilton
Website

A Culinary Gem

Palate Restaurant stands out as a beacon of innovation, flavor, and hospitality. Founded in 2005 by award-winning chef Mat McLean, Palate has grown from a modest 45-seater into one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed restaurants, now located in the stylish SkyCity Hamilton complex on Victoria Street.

Mat McLean is regarded as one of New Zealand’s top chefs. A graduate of Waikato Polytechnic, Mat honed his skills in prestigious kitchens across London—including Michelin-starred restaurants Leith and The Capital Hotel—before heading to Melbourne, where he served as Head Chef at Middle Brighton Baths.

Returning to Hamilton in 2004, Mat saw an opportunity to bring Melbourne’s relaxed, high-quality dining vibe to his hometown. He opened Palate in early 2005, and despite a rocky start, quickly built a loyal following through his commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and technically refined cooking.

Palate is known for its philosophy of “complicated simplicity”—food that’s innovative and produce-driven, yet approachable and comforting. Mat encourages diners to enjoy their meals wholeheartedly: pick up a lamb cutlet, mop up the sauce, and laugh out loud. It’s fine food without the fuss.

They host seasonal tasting menus, wine pairing dinners, and special event nights that showcase the best of local produce and culinary creativity.

Mat’s dedication to excellence and his love for competition keep Palate at the forefront of New Zealand’s dining scene.

Special offers include:

$3 Oysters Thurs-Sat 12-6pm

Set Menu staring from $60 for two courses

Hours:

Lunch: Friday - Saturday from 12pm-3pm

Dinner: Tuesday - Saturday from 5:30pm

Oyster happy hour: Thursday - Saturday 5pm - 6:30pm

Closed Sunday & Monday