Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your visit to The Gables? Here are answers to the most common questions about dining, bookings, location, and what to expect on the Russell waterfront.

About Gables

What is the inspiration behind The Gables?

The Gables is inspired by the Osterias, Trattorias and Enotecas of Italy. We bring our own regional interpretation of these in a beautiful, historic building on the Russell waterfront.

The food offering is Italian, including fresh pasta, focaccia, antipasti and desserts amongst other things. We utilise local ingredients and in most cases serve contemporary rather than classic dishes.

Relaxed. We like to interact with our customers, make recommendations and ensure they have the best possible time while visiting the Bay of Islands. We encourage people to share food over multiple smaller courses so they can enjoy as many different things as possible.

Location & Getting There

Where is The Gables located?

You’ll find us at 19 The Strand on the Russell waterfront in the Bay of Islands, around a 3-hour drive north of Auckland.

Most guests walk if staying in Russell, as it’s a small village. From Paihia or Kerikeri, you can take the passenger ferry.
Click here for ferry times

Parking in Russell is generally easy, with street parking and several nearby public parking areas just a short walk from the restaurant.

Dining & Experience

Is it ‘fine dining’?

No. For some reason over the years many people have talked about The Gables as being a fine dining or high-end restaurant. This is likely because it is considered by most to be the ‘nicest’ restaurant in town. The atmosphere and food are casual and very approachable, and our prices are very similar to everyone else’s.

Yes. We welcome guests for drinks and offer a range of options including local beers on tap and Italian-inspired cocktails.

Yes. Our wine list focuses on Northland and Italian wines, alongside a selection of styles from across New Zealand.

Dietary & Menu Options

Does The Gables offer vegetarian and vegan options?

Yes, we have a variety of vegetarian and vegan options and can adapt dishes where possible.

Yes, we offer gluten-free options, including gluten-free pasta, and cater to most dietary requirements.

Yes. Please let us know when booking and again when dining so we can take care of you properly.

Yes, we offer options for children. The menu is available in the restaurant.

Booking & Visiting

Do I need to book a table in advance?

We recommend booking in advance, especially for the best seats, but it’s not essential.

Yes. We often accommodate walk-ins, though availability can vary depending on how busy we are.

Our best views are from outdoor and window tables. You can request these when booking online.

Yes, we are generally open on public holidays and long weekends.

We sometimes close the restaurant for a month or so during winter for maintenance. Please check in if you’d like to know more.

Groups & Events

Is The Gables suitable for weddings, special occasions or celebrations?

Yes, however the largest seated event we can accommodate is 75. All of our events are bespoke, with menus designed specifically for each occasion. Please get in touch if you would like to host your event at The Gables.

Yes. Please contact us for bookings of more than 10 guests.

Groups of 16 or more are usually required to dine on a set menu. Get in touch for more details.

Facilities

Are there high chairs or facilities for babies?

We have high chairs available, though we do not have a change table.

Payments & Policies

What payment methods are accepted?

We accept cash, EFTPOS, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, Diners), and vouchers.

No BYO, but we offer a wide range of wines. Let us know if there’s something you’d love to see on the list.

Seating

Is there outdoor or waterfront seating?

Yes. We have waterfront tables across the road as well as roadside outdoor seating, giving you plenty of options.