Pacifica Restaurant Closes After 20 Years; New Venture Planned

Pacifica, one of Hawke’s Bay’s most renowned restaurants, has closed its doors after more than 20 years of operation. The restaurant, celebrated for its culinary excellence, has left a significant mark on New Zealand’s dining landscape. Owners and culinary partners, head chef Jeremy Rameka and sommelier Natalie Bulman, announced their plans to relocate to King Country, where they intend to establish a new six-seat restaurant.

Over its two-decade tenure, Pacifica garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious title of New Zealand’s best overall restaurant at the Cuisine Good Food Awards in 2017. It has been a staple of fine dining in the region, often recognized as the only three-hatted restaurant in Hawke’s Bay. Recently, however, Craggy Range, located near Havelock North, achieved the same three-hat status, marking a notable shift in the local culinary scene.

The closure of Pacifica comes as a surprise to many loyal patrons who have cherished its iconic location on Marine Parade. Known for its distinct blue bungalow, the property is now available for lease, signaling the end of an era for the establishment.

Rameka expressed deep gratitude for the support received from the community over the years. He stated, “Our journey at Pacifica has been incredibly fulfilling. We have created lasting memories with our guests, and it has been a privilege to serve such a vibrant community.” The couple’s decision to relocate stems from a desire to return to Rameka’s roots, where they hope to create a more intimate dining experience.

The new restaurant, details of which remain under wraps, aims to maintain the high culinary standards that Pacifica established. Rameka and Bulman are excited about the challenge of building a new venue from the ground up. They envision a space that reflects their passion for food and hospitality while offering a unique experience to diners.

As Pacifica closes one chapter, Rameka and Bulman look forward to what lies ahead. Their commitment to excellence and innovation in the culinary arts suggests that their new venture will continue to inspire and delight food lovers in New Zealand.