Funk Fish Grill is a family-run establishment situated in the heart of Inglewood, New Plymouth. Hosted by Tim and Jody, the venue combines the comfort of a classic Kiwi fish and chip takeaway with a relaxed, fully licensed casual dining restaurant. Whether you are stopping by for an early morning coffee on the go, picking up a quick parcel of takeaways, or sitting down to celebrate a special occasion with friends, the team focuses on creating a comfortable, welcoming dining experience.
The kitchen takes traditional fish and chips and adds a modern twist, complementing takeaway favourites with an expansive restaurant menu. Guests can enjoy internationally and seasonally inspired small plates, fresh seafood platters, local catches cooked to preference, burgers, steaks, and a curated selection of New Zealand wines, craft beers, and spirits. Everything is designed to offer a delicious meal in a warm setting where you do not have to cook yourself.
Located at 32 Matai Street in the heart of Inglewood, Taranaki, Funk Fish Grill redefines the classic Kiwi fish and chip shop. Operated by hosts Tim and Jody, this family-run establishment combines the simplicity of traditional takeaway staples with a relaxed, fully licensed dining room. Whether you are after a parcel of freshly battered fish wrapped for dinner on the run or a comfortable table to share small plates and drinks with friends, the venue caters to both casual takeaway seekers and sit-down diners.
From early morning, the venue serves the local community through its street-facing coffee window, pouring Escape coffee to go from 7:00 am daily. As the day transitions into afternoon and evening, the kitchen turns its focus to a comprehensive seafood and grill menu, bridging nostalgic takeaway favourites with contemporary bistro plates.
The takeaway side of Funk Fish Grill delivers an extensive selection of traditional fish and chips counter items. Diners can pick from daily catches such as fresh gurnard and snapper, alongside standard fish of the day fillets cooked to order. In addition to classic scoops and half-scoops of standard chips, wedges, and kumara chips, the fryer serves up traditional fried fare including potato fritters, pineapple rings, hot dogs, saveloys, and battered sausages.
Seafood lovers can also build custom packs with options like fresh oysters (available at market price), battered or crumbed scallops, squid rings, whole prawns, mussel fritters, and paua fritters. For burger lovers, the takeaway counter constructs hearty options ranging from standard beef, cheese, and chicken burgers to specialised combinations like steak and egg, bacon and egg, and fish burgers topped with classic garnishes.
For guests choosing to dine in, Funk Fish Grill provides a comfortable casual restaurant setting that is fully licensed. The dine-in experience opens with shared breads, garlic bread, and bruschetta layered with tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onion, and basil. Small plates feature local seafood favourites, such as steamed Green shell mussels tossed with white wine and garlic served with grilled bread, salt and pepper squid paired with nam jim dipping sauce, and fish or chicken tortillas dressed with salsa and salad greens.
Substantial main courses include the house signature Funk Fish & chips—featuring tempura-battered fish alongside chunky chips and seasonal salad—as well as combination plates like the Half 'n Half with tempura fish and scallops. Gluten-free selections are also prepared, including fresh grilled fish set over quinoa, roasted seasonal vegetables, and feta cheese, as well as coriander chilli butter garlic prawns served with coconut rice. Those seeking options beyond seafood can choose between large 300g ribeye steaks served with fried eggs or blue cheese crispy parmesan potatoes, or house-crafted burgers like the vegetarian corn and coriander patty.
The beverage menu complements the dining experience with a curated list of New Zealand wines, including Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay from Jules Taylor, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir from Devils Staircase, and Dusky Sound varietals by the glass or bottle. Beer drinkers will find regional craft and mainstream brews including Mike's Pilsner, Sawmill APA/IPA, Tuatara, Corona, and Heineken, alongside non-alcoholic brews and cider.
With a focus on welcoming service, Tim and Jody aim to provide a memorable dining spot for Inglewood locals and visitors exploring the Taranaki region, making Funk Fish Grill a versatile neighbourhood fixture for morning coffee, evening takeaways, and celebratory group dinners.