Blue Ginger

If you are looking for a spot with exotic flavors and a relaxed atmosphere in Whitianga, Blue Ginger is the perfect find. This cozy restaurant specializes in Asian-Polynesian cuisine, offering guests a vibrant menu that harmoniously blends the traditions of Thailand, Vietnam, and the Pacific Islands.

Blue Ginger. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Located in New Zealand, the establishment is known as one of the most consistent and high-quality spots in the region, as it has been managed for many years by the owners themselves—professional chefs Stu and Bex. The kitchen's main pride is the use of the freshest local kaimoana (seafood) and seasonal ingredients, which are transformed into fragrant dishes right before your eyes.

The interior of Blue Ginger is filled with warmth and color: bright lanterns, souvenirs from distant travels, and works by local artists create a unique casual style. This is a place where the focus is on healthy eating and purity of flavor, a commitment confirmed by its prestigious Travelers’ Choice award from Tripadvisor.

To contact the restaurant team or inquire about group bookings, use the details provided below. Please note that the venue is quite popular, so it’s a good idea to check in early for evening dining.

Visiting this establishment is first and foremost a gastronomic journey. Be sure to try the signature Kapow chicken, the rich Buddha bowl, or the aromatic curry. Seafood lovers will enjoy the crab dishes or the Indonesian beef rendang. It’s customary here to order several different items for the group and share them to taste all the facets of Asian fusion.

Special attention should be paid to the drinks: following "Buddha's wishes," the restaurant does not serve alcohol, but instead offers amazing homemade ginger beer, fresh coconut water, and coffee from local roasters. The vibrant and energetic atmosphere is complemented by pleasant music, making Blue Ginger a great place for socializing at communal tables.

If you are traveling in a large group (more than 4 people), it is recommended to book a table in advance. For those in a hurry to get back to the ocean, an online ordering option for takeaway is available. The menu is very flexible: there are always great options for vegetarians, vegans, and those following a gluten-free diet.

Finding the restaurant is easy: it is located in the heart of Whitianga at 1/10 Blacksmith Lane, just steps away from the waterfront and the ocean. If you are already in the city center, you can easily reach the venue on foot from the wharf or the main shopping streets. For those arriving by car, street parking is usually available on the surrounding streets.

Travelers heading from Auckland will enjoy a scenic drive via State Highway SH25 across the Coromandel Peninsula, which takes about 2.5 hours. Intercity buses also run to the town, and from the bus stop, you can quickly reach Blue Ginger by taxi or on foot.

The location is fully wheelchair accessible, making it convenient for all guests. The proximity to the port, where ferries depart, serves as a helpful landmark.

The professionals behind Blue Ginger are the husband-and-wife duo Stuart Smith and Rebecca Murray. Before settling on the Coromandel Peninsula, they built an impressive culinary background working in London, Australia, and Southeast Asia. The couple spent several years in the Pacific Islands, teaching local chefs the art of using regional products, which later became the foundation for their own establishment's concept.

Upon returning to Whitianga, Stuart and Rebecca initially worked in a family business before launching a catering service. The success of their ideas led to the opening of a full-scale restaurant on Blacksmith Lane, which quickly filled the niche for fresh and healthy Asian cuisine in the city. Today, it is one of the town's longest-running establishments managed directly by its owners.

The restaurant's philosophy is built not only on food but also on supporting the local community. They make it a point to use products from local suppliers: for example, oysters are provided by the Coromandel Oyster Company, and the coffee comes from the multi-award-winning roaster Coffee Lala. Even the restaurant walls serve as a gallery for local artist Hana Coleman.

Interestingly, the continuity of generations here is more than just a phrase. One of the chefs, who rose from apprentice to head chef and co-owner, refined his skills during internships in Vietnam, bringing new authentic touches to the menu.

To fully enjoy the meal and the atmosphere at Blue Ginger, it usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. This is enough time to place your order at the counter, wait for your fresh wok-prepared dishes, and spend a pleasant evening in conversation.

Keep in mind that the restaurant is very popular with both locals and tourists, so during peak hours, you might need a little more time to wait for a free table. If you are looking for a quick bite, you can take advantage of the takeaway service.

When planning your visit to Blue Ginger, take note of the schedule, as on some days the restaurant only opens for dinner. The establishment is usually closed on Mondays and Sundays. From Tuesday to Saturday, the restaurant is open for the evening shift from 17:00 to 20:30 (or 21:00), and mid-week (Wednesday to Friday), it is also open for lunch from 11:00 to 14:00.

Since opening hours can change depending on the season, we strongly recommend checking for the latest information on the official website or the restaurant's social media pages before visiting.

After a delicious meal at Blue Ginger, it is worth taking some time to stroll around the area. Whitianga offers many interesting locations just a few minutes' walk away, from historical monuments to cozy spots to relax by the water.