Mary's
15 Joll Road, Havelock North 4130
Rating: 4.6 ★ (172 ratings)
Details
Mary's is a sophisticated neighbourhood restaurant, a collaboration between the acclaimed Craggy Range winery, a local family, and a world-class chef, nestled in the heart of Havelock North village. The venue offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, boasting chic details such as navy leather bench seating, luxurious yellow drapes, and global photographic prints. Guests can enjoy views of the open kitchen and bar, or unwind on the elevated front terrace, which provides delightful vistas of Hawke's Bay sunsets.
The cuisine embraces a bistro-style approach, featuring a comprehensive à la carte menu with both nostalgic favourites and inventive new dishes. Meals often highlight ingredients prepared in a Josper oven, imparting distinctive flavours to dishes such as coal-roasted octopus and sirloin. Notable menu items also include delicious fried chicken and, when in season, fresh oysters, alongside an indulgent brunch menu available on Saturdays and Sundays. The drinks selection is impressive, with an evolving list of cocktails, local spirits, and beers, complemented by an exclusive array of Craggy Range wines.
This delightful establishment suits those seeking a memorable dining experience in a welcoming setting. It is ideal for casual catch-ups, intimate dinners, or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch. The restaurant is family-friendly and also hosts events, making it a versatile choice for various social occasions.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Tuesday: 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Wednesday: 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Thursday: 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Friday: 4:00 – 8:00 PM | Saturday: 4:00 – 8:00 PM | Sunday: Closed
Contact
+64 6 650 7770 | https://marys.co.nz/
Comments
My partner and I stopped in just to check it out, and we were absolutely blown away. We ordered the steak and the burger — and judging by his face in the photos I attached, my partner had never tasted a steak so good in his life. (His mother only cooks them well done, so this was a revelation for him!) Every bite was worth savoring.
I was so impressed with the level of service that I tipped our server, Zoe, $50 NZD — and she was genuinely shocked. But I could not have had a better experience. Zoe, if you see this, THANK YOU. You made us feel so welcome, your recommendations were perfect, and you truly elevated our night. If you haven’t given her a raise yet… please do so!
As someone who grew up in restaurants with a chef for a father, I have a heightened sense of taste and high expectations. Mary’s exceeded them all. The quality, execution, hospitality, and even the pricing were exceptional. Hearing the chef was from Texas made total sense — Texans know how to cook a steak and a burger, and this was perfection.
We’ll be back in December or January, and we are definitely making a special stop at Mary’s. Hoping Zoe is still there — she was a big part of why we enjoyed our evening so much.
Thank you to the entire team — what you’re doing here is truly special.
Desserts were a bit disappointing: the tiramisu was sloppy and watery, while the rhubarb was overcooked and the crumble was too hard. Nothing special overall.
On the positive side, the burger & chips ($34) were excellent, tasty, generous portion, and definitely something I’d recommend.