Dine

Dora’s Café is one of Hamilton’s best-kept secrets. With its warm ambiance, friendly staff, and consistently delicious food and coffee, it’s no wonder this café has become a local favorite for breakfast, brunch, and casual catch-ups.

A mix of classic café fare and unique treats. Popular menu items include:

• Thai curry – a flavorful surprise on a café menu, often praised by regulars
• Hot chocolate & coffee – rich, smooth, and expertly brewed
• Brunch staples – eggs benedict, toasties, and muffins
• Freshly baked goods – including daurade (a Mediterranean-style fish dish) and sweet pastries

Dora’s Café is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates good food, great coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere. Stop by and discover why this little café is making a big impression.

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A café that’s quietly become one of Hamilton’s most celebrated coffee spots.Demi Urgos is more than just a café—it’s a destination for coffee lovers who appreciate quality, community, and a touch of artistry.

While coffee is the star, Demi Urgos also offers a satisfying menu of baked goods and light bites.

Demi Urgos is known for its unpretentious, cosy vibe making it a great spot to catch up with friends, enjoy a solo coffee break, or even work remotely.

Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a great café in Hamilton, Demi Urgos is a must-visit.

Hamilton’s dessert scene just got a whole lot sweeter with the arrival of Kori Desserts, a vibrant new café on Ward Street that’s serving up a delicious mix of Korean-inspired treats and Instagram-worthy creations. Since opening early July 2025, it’s quickly become a go-to destination for anyone with a sweet tooth—and for good reason.

Kori Desserts specialises in Asian-style sweets, with a focus on Korean and Japanese flavors. Their menu features a mouthwatering selection of:

• Soufflé Pancakes – light, fluffy, and topped with fresh fruit, ice cream, and cream
• Snowflake Bingsu – Korean shaved ice desserts with toppings like red bean, mango, and injeolmi (roasted soybean powder)
• Mochi Ice Cream – chewy, creamy, and packed with flavor
• Monaka Ice Cream – crisp wafer shells filled with rich ice cream
• Seasonal puddings and parfaits – beautifully layered and perfect for sharing

Prices range from $11 to $28, with generous portions designed to be shared—though you might want to keep them all to yourself!

Every dish at Kori Desserts is a visual delight. From the towering soufflé pancakes to the vibrant bingsu bowls. If you are looking for a dessert that tastes as good as it looks, this is the place to be.

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Rocket Coffee Roasters has long been a local favorite for coffee lovers. But in 2025, this humble café made international headlines—ranked 62nd in the world on a prestigious list of top coffee shops. Rocket Coffee is the only New Zealand café to earn a spot on the global stage.

Rocket isn’t just a café—it’s a coffee destination. Co-owner Glen Crompton describes it as a place where the focus is purely on coffee. No food, no distractions—just expertly roasted beans and beautifully crafted drinks.

Beyond the beans, Rocket is deeply rooted in the Hamilton community. They highlight the farmers behind each coffee, support sustainable practices, and create a space where locals feel at home. As Crompton puts it:

“We let the coffees tell their story and their own flavours... This ranking is a reflection of the hard work and commitment to quality that we put into every cup.”

Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just looking for your next great brew, Rocket Coffee Roasters is a must-visit in Hamilton. Come for the coffee, stay for the story—and experience one of the world’s best right here in Aotearoa.

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Tucked away on Ward Street in the heart of Hamilton Central, La Promesse Bakehouse is a delightful bakery that’s quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Ling and Richard, this boutique bakehouse is all about quality, craftsmanship, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pastries.

La Promesse is known for its handcrafted pastries, made fresh daily with premium ingredients and a whole lot of love. Their display cabinet is a visual feast, often filled with:

• Classic Croissants – buttery, flaky, and golden perfection
• Almond Croissants – rich, nutty, and dusted with powdered sugar
• Pain au Chocolat – layers of pastry wrapped around dark chocolate
• Pain au Raisin – sweet, spiraled pastry with custard and raisins
• Brioches & Danish-style treats – soft, sweet, and indulgent

Whether you're a pastry connoisseur or just love a good croissant, La Promesse Bakehouse is a must-visit in Hamilton.

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If you're looking for bold flavors, festive vibes, and a true taste of Mexico in the heart of Hamilton, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina is your go-to destination.This lively cantina brings the spirit of Mexico to the Waikato with colorful décor, handcrafted cocktails, and a menu packed with authentic street food favorites.

El Mexicano Zapata serves up a delicious array of traditional Mexican dishes, including:

• Tacos – soft or crispy, filled with everything from fish to slow-cooked beef
• Burritos & Chimichangas – generously stuffed and smothered in sauce
• Enchiladas – cheesy, spicy, and full of flavor
• Quesadillas & Nachos – perfect for sharing
• Pollo al Mole – a rich, chocolatey chili sauce over tender chicken
• Churros – golden, crispy, and served with chocolate or caramel

They also offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it a welcoming spot for all dietary preferences.

There wide selection of drinks include these favourites:

• Classic Margaritas (try the mango or jalapeño versions!)
• Mojitos & Tequila Flights
• Mexican beers like Bohemia and Corona
• Jarritos – traditional Mexican sodas in fruity flavors

Whether you're a taco lover, a tequila enthusiast, or just in the mood for a fun night out, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina delivers a fiesta every time. Come hungry, leave happy—and don’t forget to try the churros!‍

If you're craving bold flavors, vibrant spices, and the comforting warmth of Southeast Asian cuisine, look no further than Penang Street Food in Hamilton. This restaurant brings the soul of Malaysian street food to the Waikato with a menu that’s as rich in culture as it is in taste.

Penang Street Food is inspired by the bustling hawker stalls of Penang, Malaysia. The restaurant blends traditional Malay recipes with a modern dining experience, offering dishes that speak to heritage, family, and flavor.

Some of their standout menu items include:

• Nasi Lemak – coconut rice served with sambal, peanuts, egg, cucumber, and your choice of meat
• Char Kway Teow – stir-fried flat noodles with prawns, Chinese sausage, and crispy pork lard
• Laksa – rich coconut curry soup with noodles, tofu, and boiled egg
• Roti Canai – flaky flatbread served with curry chicken, lamb, or beef rendang
• Kungpao Squid – spicy stir-fried squid with cashews and vegetables
• Hainanese Chicken Rice – poached chicken with seasoned rice and dipping sauces

They also offer vegetarian options, crispy snacks like curry puffs and wontons, and refreshing Malaysian drinks like 100 Plus and A&W Root Beer.

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Located in the heart of Hamilton’s vibrant dining district, Iguana Street Bar & Restaurant is a local favorite known for its relaxed atmosphere, creative menu, and unbeatable weekly specials. Whether you're after a casual dinner, a night out with friends, or a hearty Sunday roast, Iguana delivers every time.

With a different dining in deal every day of the week. Here’s a taste of what you can expect:

Monday - $20 Large pizzas.

Tuesday - Date night, dessert cocktails and dessert night $9.50 single and $16.50 share

Wednesday - $1.50 Chicken wings.

Thursday - All you can eat ribs.

Friday - $31 From the Grill.

Saturday – Platters Day

$36 -Entrée platter

$55- Mix grill platter

$28 – Dessert platter

Sunday - $31.50 Roast

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Iguana is also a popular venue for birthdays, staff parties, and private functions, with flexible catering options and a space full of character.