The Oyster Inn (3)

A really good bistro in the Oneroa town centre: Waiheke has so been waiting for this. Actually, all of Auckland has. Local bon vivant John Hawkesby was in dozens of times in the first few months — the reason, he says, is that every single time someone visited him from the mainland, they asked if they could go. They still do. Why the fuss? That would be, perhaps, because of the pulled pork sliders, which we think are the best sliders of any kind in Auckland. Or the tempura oyster po’boy sandwiches, with their gorgeous wasabi mayo. Or the simply delicious and quite revelatory octopus salad. Or the jelly top milkshake, or Aunty J’s rolled pavlova, both of which are essential eating. Or maybe it’s the good wine list and all the excellent craft beers. Or the lovely warm tone set by owners Jonathan Rutherfurd-Best (above left) and Andrew Glenn (right) and their terrific maître d’, Clare Dunleavy. Or maybe it’s all of those, plus the chance to grab a table on that verandah, gaze at the boats in Oneroa Bay and be free. $$$

4 Spoons

A favourite dish: Octopus salad with barley and herbs.

Shared-plate options / Good for vegetarians / Free-range chicken and/or pork / Private room / Good seating outside / Takes large groups / Bar / Craft beer selection / Good for kids