Devon On The Wharf

The Verdict

What’s better than an amazing meal? An amazing meal with an equally amazing view, of course! Experience the best of both worlds at Turkish-inspired restaurant, Devon on the Wharf.

Perched on Devonport Wharf, the aptly named eatery boasts stunning views of the Auckland Harbour and beyond. Sip on your morning coffee as you watch the sun rise from the East; return in the evening and see the sun sink behind the Waitakere Ranges. This is one view that will never get old.

Just a 12-minute ferry ride from the heart of the CBD, the restaurant is a total oasis. The spacious outdoor area is adorned with wicker chairs, cushions and pops of greenery. And, because Auckland is prone to four seasons in one day, there are screens to protect you from the rain and heaters to keep you snug as bug!

Things are light and bright inside with homely wooden tables and chairs, a geometric-tiled floor and even more greenery. However, it’s Devon on the Wharf’s bar that has our hearts. Pull up a stool and work your way through the extensive cocktail menu as you look out towards the bustling harbour with the city’s skyline in the background. What’s more, there’s margarita on tap!

The restaurant is the brainchild of Alix Isik and Nigar Ivgen of Nazar Group (aka the clever duo behind Deco Eatery, Bodrum Kitchen and Miss Istanbul). While their Turkish heritage is evident in the menu, you’ll also find Mediterranean delights and Kiwi classics—no breakfast menu is complete without eggs bene after all!

Speaking of breakfast, you can also expect to find fluffy blueberry pancakes served with poached pear and bacon, flavoursome tomato and capsicum menemen, as well as creamy mushrooms with Turkish pide. Wash down with an expertly brewed coffee, Turkish tea or a not-to-be-missed Whittaker’s hot chocolate.

Lunch is all about wraps (choose between slow-cooked lamb, crispy tarakihi or halloumi), calamari salad and Devon’s take on fish and chips. We love the tartare sauce made with sujuk—a spicy Middle Eastern sausage.

Visit for dinner and the deliciousness continues. There’s a sharing menu starring sigara borek (cheese and potato filo cigars), grilled halloumi, spiced carrots and oysters. If you want a bit of everything, their much-loved platter is the way to go. It’s piled high with hummus, falafel, olives, Turkish mussels and more.

The larger-sized mains are divided into three sections: ocean, paddock and field. You’ll be tearing your hair out as you choose between baked salmon, chicken tagine and Mumma’s dolma—Devon’s signature stuffed capsicum.  

If there’s room for dessert (there always is), treat yo’self to chocolate fondant, pavlova or sundae—the latter is particularly epic. If you’re after something ‘stronger’, the drinks menu has you covered with more cocktails than you can poke a stick at! There’s a dedicated gin and tonic menu (!) as well as beer, wine, whiskey and rum.

So, what are you waiting for? Round up nearest and dearest and jump aboard a ferry—there’s a feast calling your name!

Image credit: Kellie Blizard