Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant, Waiheke Island

Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant, Waiheke Island

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Posted 2019-05-27 by Phoebe Hackettfollow


Next time you're in Auckland, jump on the ferry to Waiheke Island like we did, explore the area and later, celebrate gourmet food at Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant in a postcard perfect setting.

Getting there
We wanted to make a day of it and planned a morning of sight-seeing on the island, followed by a delicious lunch.

We caught the ferry from Queens Wharf, Auckland, a pleasant 40-minute ride, travelling past the eye-catching Rangitoto scenic island reserve and Motutapu Island as we made our way to the Matiatia Bay Ferry terminal, Waiheke Island. It is the second largest island in the Haruki Gulf, and the most populated.



Exploring Waiheke Island



We took the Waiheke Island Explorer Hop on Hop Off Bus as it combined the ferry trip as well as the bus transportation around the island. It turned out to be the most flexible and cost-effective tour option; we paid $63.05 each. The route included 15 stops with commentary from professional tour guides. We enjoyed Oneroa Village and shops, visiting Rangihoua Estate , where we sampled delicious olive oils and spreads with bread and stopped at the many wineries, including Stonyridge Vineyard, Batch Winery and Tantalus Vineyard, along the way to Mudbrick, taking our time.

The buses ran every 30 minutes, so it was a very easy way to enjoy this beautiful location.

Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant
Mudbrick was the last stop in the loop and in our opinion, the best was left for last. We were blown away at how picturesque the location was.



Sweeping views, overlooking the sparkling expanse of blue that is the Hauraki Gulf, we were awestruck by the sights around us.



The colourful flowers, vibrant herb and vegetable gardens, olive trees, manicured hedges, climbing vines, all accented by a gently scented breeze that, for lack of a better word, intoxicated us - and we hadn't tasted a drop of wine yet.

It was hard to take our eyes off our stunning surrounds until we realised it was time for our much-anticipated lunch.

The food
We followed the signage posts up a few steps and into the restaurant. The restaurant walls were covered in climbing ivy, giving it a European feel.



We walked through large French doors and were shown to a table near a window overlooking the beautiful garden.

When it came time to order, our waiter expertly explained the dishes.

Each dish is created to highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, using locally sourced and on-site produce. The benefit of growing their own produce is having it available when nowhere else does. Fresh, exciting dishes, bursting with flavour and colour. Sophisticated simplicity, where the ingredients take centre stage and tell the story - one we'll remember for a long time.



We had booked the two course a la carte option, with a choice of entree, main or dessert $85 per person, plus added a few small dishes to sample on top of that from the menu . If you opt for the dazzling degustation menu, set aside at least three hours to enjoy its seven courses. Let them know if you have dietary requirements and they will gladly accommodate you.



Overall, this was one of the most unique culinary experiences we've ever had. The attention to detail, fresh produce, location, décor and friendly staff ticked all the boxes.

What else is happening at Mudbrick?
After lunch, we explored the grounds and found their more casual dining spot, The Archive Bar and Bistro , which serves lighter meals and platters to enjoy while wine tasting and taking in the views and gardens.

Wine tastings are at the cellar door every day of the week, overlooking the Hauraki Gulf from the garden terrace setting and the cellar shop has lots of great gift ideas for sale, like olive oil, hand creams, soaps, wine, aprons, hats and gift vouchers.



If you're looking for an amazing wedding location , it's definitely one to consider.

When we come back (and we will) we might stay in one of their on site cottages .

After a few hours enjoying ourselves, it was time to head back to Auckland. If the bus never came back to pick us up, we wouldn't have cared, happy to stay at Mudbrick and enjoy winery life.



**With all its natural beauty and produce on offer, raise a glass and know that Mudbrick itself is the cause for much celebration.

Cheers. **

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93319 - 2023-06-12 00:47:12

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