Charlotte’s Kitchen

Charlotte’s Kitchen opened in late 2015 and is a waterfront restaurant located at the end of the Paihia wharf, in the Bay of Islands. It is operated by the team behind The Duke of Marlborough Hotel and aims to offer a fresh, vibrant dining option right on the water.

Concept & Setting

Positioned literally over the wharf, Charlotte’s Kitchen commands close proximity to the bay and delivers sweeping water views. Its location places it as a focal point for dining in Paihia — one sees it at the very end of the wharf. The venue combines a casual bar and restaurant environment while preserving style and character drawn from its location and heritage.

Cuisine & Menu Highlights

The menu at Charlotte’s Kitchen is informed by fresh, seasonal produce with international influences and local focus. Signatures include a free-range pork knuckle (which is popular and best pre-ordered), wood-fired pizzas, and market fish specials. In addition to its larger share plates, it also offers smaller plates to suit lighter appetites. The team emphasises “fresh is best” when sourcing the catch of the day.

Ambience & Experience

• Waterfront dining, with views over the bay and a direct connection to the marine setting.
• A casual yet stylish space — suitable for groups, couples or more relaxed visits.
• Menu structured for sharing or lighter dining, giving flexibility depending on appetite.
• Creatively themed around the local character of Charlotte Badger (a historical figure) and enhanced by rotating art displays (e.g. by Lester Hall).

Opening Hours & Service Notes

• Sunday through Thursday: 11:30 am to 9:30 pm
• Friday & Saturday: from 11:30 am “till late”

Distinctive Attributes

• A waterfront wharf-end location gives diners a strong sense of setting and connection to the Bay of Islands.
• Menu blends share plates, signature items (pork knuckle) and wood-fired pizzas—offering versatility in dining style.
• Operated by the team behind an established nearby hotel (The Duke), giving it experience in hospitality and local positioning.
• Use of seasonal and local produce emphasizes freshness and regional identity in cuisine.

Charlotte’s Kitchen is an excellent option for travellers or locals in the Bay of Islands seeking a dining experience closely tied to the water. Whether arriving by land or by sea, it offers a relaxed yet stylish venue to enjoy well-sourced meals, scenic ambiance, and a link to the region’s character. Its location, menu variety, and thoughtful approach to produce and presentation make it a notable presence in Paihia’s dining scene.