Palate Restaurant

Palate is a Hamilton culinary institution, independently owned and operated by locally trained chef Mat McLean since 2005. In 2026, the restaurant was awarded two hats at the Cuisine Good Food Awards, recognising the consistently high level of food, service and hospitality delivered by the team.

In 2024, Palate moved to SkyCity Hamilton, taking up a prime position in the heart of Hamilton’s main street. Owners Mat and Larissa see the move as the next step in Palate’s evolution, creating an opportunity to offer Waikato diners an even greater experience.

The venue features a number of distinct spaces, from the chef’s table, where guests have front-row seats to the action in the kitchen, to relaxed couches where you can enjoy a tipple and tasty tidbit while watching the world go by. At the heart of it all is the dining room, with its distinctive calm and classic Palate feel.

The menus showcase the best of the Greater Waikato’s bounty, celebrating locally sourced fruits, vegetables, truffles, meats, seafood and cheese, alongside quality ingredients from trusted suppliers throughout New Zealand.

Mat is recognised as one of the country’s leading chefs, known for his contemporary flavours, strong technical skills and ability to continually surprise and delight diners. Complementing the food is Palate’s thoughtful wine cellar, now expertly curated by Larissa.

Check out their A La Carte Menu here

Palate Restaurant is independently owned and operated as a tenant of SkyCity Hamilton. The SHOW by SkyCity and Premier Rewards programme is not available at Palate Restaurant for earning points, and members are not eligible for any Premier Rewards discounts on food and beverage at this venue.