Cambridge is a go-to destination for food lovers wanting a taste of something different. 

A selection of award-winning eateries, cosy cafés, and tasteful bars are all within walking distance. Our town is known for its locally-owned businesses and welcoming vibe, which add a personal touch to your dining experience.

Here’s our foodies guide to tasting your way around Cambridge.

Homebrew
Get your daily dose of caffeine from coffee hot-spot, Homebrew Coffee and recharge from as early as 6am. Established in 2018, Homebrew has quickly become the go-to for local coffee-lovers but also offers an impressive range of alternatives for non-coffee drinkers. Look out for their yellow compostable coffee cups with the black lightning bolt when walking around town. 

“Every day we turn up with our dream to make the world a better place. Although we believe in our coffee and strive to deliver quality and taste, we also believe in our people equally as much.” - Founders, Blair and Tayler. 

Gourmet Delicious
With a portfolio of experience and a reputable name in the community, Gourmet Delicious provides catering services that surprise and delight. They have had the honour of catering for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during their visit to Cambridge and have proudly served the Waikato and surrounding areas for many years. 

They also operate a number of superb cafés, each offering its own unique gourmet charm and exceptional hospitality. Clementine, based at Amber Garden Centre is the perfect spot for a relaxing breakfast, brunch, or lunch in a stylish, laid-back setting. Nearby, Suburban Kitchen is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, celebrated for its warm atmosphere and hearty meals.

Just a short drive to the Lake Karapiro, Podium Café offers a culinary experience with a stunning view.

Alpino
Located in the historic Cambridge post office, Alpino offers a taste of Italy with its flavours and exceptional wines, making it a premier dining experience in town. The restaurant is a 1 hat award winning restaurant that brings a slice of Northern Italy, featuring a modern and intimate space that reflects authentic Italian culture. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere at Alpino and be transported through a dining experience for the senses.

Circus Eatery
Right at the centre of Cambridge Park you’ll find Circus Eatery - the perfect spot for a summer’s day catch up with friends and family. Relax outside under the shade of the umbrellas or enjoy the comfort of a booth inside. While you wait for your food, grab the kids a whiteboard and let them scribble while you soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Pups are welcome to join you outside too.

St Kilda Café & Bistro
Café by day and bistro by night. St Kilda Café & Bistro is set in the heart of St Kilda, Cambridge, with a beautiful outlook over wetlands and the majestic Maungatautari. This establishment offers a warm and versatile dining experience a stone’s throw from town and is perfect for families with young children with a playground and basketball hoop outside its front door. 

Smoke Collective Barbecue Joint
If low and slow gets your mouth watering, you need to pay a visit to our local barbecue joint. From hot smoked peppered beef brisket, sweet spiced rubbed smoked pork belly, beef and cheese kransky sausage, fried chicken, and meaty, cheesy dirty fries, the Smoke Collective Barbecue Joint blends the art of cooking low and slow with a dash of kiwi flair. Run by a husband and wife team, they pride themselves on using quality ingredients where meat is the star of the show.

Onyx
Onyx provides fantastic food and exceptional service. From big breakfasts and eggs bene for brunch, salads and fresh market fish at lunch, chicken and sirloin steak at dinner, and gourmet pizzas day or night, they have a dish to delight everyone. Special dietary requirements are no problem; they will take good care of you. Look out for a new menu this summer! Your favourite dishes may still appear but expect to see some new delicacies very soon.

Alpha Street Kitchen
A modern, award-winning eatery in the heart of Cambridge, Alpha Street Kitchen is a great place to catch up on some work in a quiet corner, enjoy a long lunch or celebrate a special occasion with friends and family. With an innovative seasonal and contemporary menu and extensive wine list, take a seat and enjoy the views of the beautiful town hall and clock.

The Bikery 
Next to the cycling action at the The Grassroots Trust Velodrome you’ll find The Bikery, a quaint café with a menu featuring creative twists on kiwi classics. Pack the bikes and plan a full day out with the family, ride a section of the Te Awa River Ride and stop in for lunch at the Bikery. Serving top-notch coffee, The Bikery has become a thriving hub for the Cambridge community.

Hanoi Boy
What started off as a food truck venture has morphed into a full Vietnamese restaurant at the southern end of the main street. Owner and chef Don is passionate about serving authentic Vietnamese food to the people of Cambridge and prides himself on the consistent quality of the Vietnamese Street food he serves up, including his signature broths, noodles, rice paper rolls and more. Dine in or order online for pick up and enjoy the traditional taste of
Vietnamese cuisine.