Rusty's Bar & Restaurant

Rusty's Bar and Restaurant is the lively newcomer in the heart of Tauranga, where comfort cooking and bold flavours take centre stage. Word has already spread about the slow-cooked pork belly and tempura halloumi, the sort of crowd favourites that set the tone for a menu built on indulgence and good times.

From brunch through to late plates, the kitchen celebrates familiar pleasures with a few teasing twists. Think eggs Benedict on potato hash cake with house hollandaise, or southern fried chicken waffles with maple syrup and vanilla ice cream for the sweet-tooth set. Later, burgers bring swagger, from a Wagyu burger layered with bacon, gherkins and Swiss cheese to a Korean fried chicken burger with kimchi mayo. Pizzas keep things unfussy and satisfying, whether you are in the mood for garlic cheese or a classic Margherita.

Lighter appetites are met with colour and crunch: a Moroccan-spiced chicken salad with smoked chicken, chorizo, avocado and cashews, or a Thai beef salad tossed with seasonal greens and bean sprouts. Sharing is very much the spirit with Rusty's Special Platter and a seafood platter, before a flourish of desserts like silky creme brulee or a warm double chocolate and salted caramel brownie. Make a plan, bring your favourites, and let Tauranga’s newest address show you a good time—pork to halloumi, and everything in between.