Papa Mo’s

Papa Mo’s, has been a labour of love since its conception.The gastropub, located in Pāpāmoa, was purpose-built in 2018 from a greenfield site. When it opened, in 2018 the locals were stoked to finally have a “local” without having to trek to Mount Maunganui for a meal or a night out.

From a relaxed but stylish dining area, to a pothole named Little Mo' serving takeaway coffee and ice cream, to the aptly named Horizon Bar, where you can enjoy a sunset passionfruit mojito with stunning views of Pāpāmoa Beach, there is a space for every occasion.

We sat down with Luke, the owner and dreamer behind the vision of Papa Mo’s.

Why is Papa Mo’s important?

Papa Mo’s was built for the community, and that is what makes it special. We have a strong local following, and we have become a hub for locals to gather and celebrate special occasions together. We are a founding sponsor of the local cricket club and work hard to provide that “third space” for all in the local community to come and enjoy.

“We built it for Pāpāmoa”

What do you love about working in hospitality?

My experience in hospitality reaches back over 12 years and really stems from community engagement and bringing people together. Here at Papa Mo’s, we are passionate about having some serious fun, and we deliver that. Whether it’s a group having cocktails at the weekend or a family coming in every Thursday for our rib special – everyone is welcome.

“This is the place that people can stop looking at their phones and socialise.”

Why should someone vote for Papa Mo’s?

We deserve a vote due to the work we deliver on keeping our offering fresh and engaging. We are constantly trying new ideas, whether it’s rotating daily menu specials, espresso martinis on tap or dessert nachos – we are always innovating.

What made you enter into this competition?

Papa Mos is aiming to be an iconic establishment and brand in Pāpāmoa and the wider Bay of Plenty region, and we strive daily to improve our offering to reach this.  To win the title of Top 50 Gastropub in NZ would help us continue to build our iconic brand. It’s the perfect opportunity to put us up against other great venues and ensure we are still heading in the right direction. We are excited about the brand awareness the competition will bring, and it will help drive guests through the door to check us out.

Tell me about your menu.

Our menu is classic pub fare, with a modern twist. Take our Hangi Spring Rolls – traditional spring rolls with a surprise twist that just works. Our social plates are really popular, tapas-style plates designed for sharing. The green-lipped mussels in a creamy garlic and white wine sauce are divine!

What is your favourite meal on the menu at the moment?

It’s so hard to answer that one. I love everything on our menu. I’d have to go with either the Thai beef salad, delicately marinated in Thai herbs and spices on lettuce, cucumber, carrot and bean sprouts topped with a chilli soy dressing, crispy fried noodles and grated egg. Or the steak sandwich. You can’t go wrong with a steak sandwich.

Papa Mo’s got you all inspired? Enter your business now! Entries are open until 31 January, 2024