The Family re-opens -Culinary Delights and Warm Welcomes this Labour Day Weekend
By Chris Ewing for Andy and Deborah Horton
Springtime has finally arrived here in the Coromandel, and we’re filled with excitement as we prepare to reopen the restaurant at The Family this coming Labour Weekend (Friday, 20 October)! Last year marked our first foray into the hospitality world. We plunged headfirst into this challenging yet incredibly fulfilling industry, learning everything from licensing to logistics.
When we acquired this lovely property last year, it already hosted a restaurant, but we envisioned something truly our own and embarked on a journey to create The Family experience.
So why are we called The Family?
For us, our name encapsulates a vision and ethos that's close to our heart. When you hear the term 'The Family', it's not about our own family unit, though we are indeed a sizeable bunch. No, the name paints a broader, richer story that’s really the core of why we do what we do.
We never wanted to be just another business – we've always envisioned a place that feels like a second home to everyone who walks through our doors. Right from the moment we began, we wanted to cultivate an environment that radiated warmth and acceptance. Much like stepping into a loved one's home, we desired for every guest to feel an immediate sense of belonging.
This doesn’t happen by accident; in fact, we’ve been very intentional in crafting The Family experience.
We’ve put thought and planning into designing spaces that invite conversation and banter. We’ve also tried to create a menu that is more about good honest food and home-cooked goodness, rather than resembling a fine dining, black tie event. We place emphasis on forming genuine connections, ensuring every interaction goes beyond mere transactional exchanges, fostering a sense of community and continuity. Our dedicated efforts in curating special events and initiatives, like supporting the local home-schooling community, further deepen our ties to the wider Coromandel region. It's all these intricacies, both big and small, that meld together, creating an ambiance where guests don’t just visit – they belong.
“Belonging doesn’t happen by accident. We’ve been very intentional in crafting The Family experience.”
What’s on the menu at The Family?
At The Family (Restaurant), we’ve worked hard to create a menu that appeals to every palate, from the heartiest eater to the most health-conscious guest. Our authentic wood-fired pizzas are the star attraction. Cooked to perfection in our carefully crafted oven, each pie offers a smoky, crispy crust topped with the freshest ingredients.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, our sliders are a must-try. We offer a set of three mini burgers accompanied by a light salad and a side of fries. It’s a mouth-watering experience that’s both fun and filling.
Health-conscious guests will relish our Nourish bowls. We have a quinoa bowl loaded with seasonal roast veggies for our gluten-free patrons. Our Mediterranean bowl features couscous with grilled capsicum, feta, tomatoes, cucumber, and roast beetroot, all sitting atop a bed of fresh lettuce.
Then we have our dumplings (another favourite from last year’s menu), and a number of other staple items which we know you’ll enjoy! From new pizza flavours to additional healthy options, you can always expect a satisfying dining experience at The Family.
Join us this Labour Day Weekend for the re-opening of The Family Restaurant
We’re opening our doors initially from Friday to Monday, with the goal of going seven days a week during the Christmas holiday season. Our café will also soon be open every day, offering a cosy haven for residents and tourists alike, where they can savour a drink while their kids play safely nearby.
The Family is about more than just food - we’re fostering a community. Mark your calendar for Friday, 20 October. Come and experience the lovingly crafted food, flavours, and atmosphere that have become the essence of The Family. Your place at our table is waiting!
The Family Restaurant and Cafe is on State Highway 25 just south of Whenuakite School. It is well signed and part of the Seabreeze Holiday Park.
For opening times, to reserve a table head to www.thefamily.nz or call on (07) 866 3050.