The 10 Best Restaurants in Wanaka, New Zealand
Wanaka boasts a great selection of restaurants with something for everyone. It may be that you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, a pleasant sit-down meal or a budget-friendly dining option — whatever your craving is, this New Zealand town will serve it. In fact, here are 10 establishments that prove it.
1. Kika
Restaurant, European, Oceanian, Contemporary, Gluten-free, Vegetarian
2. Kai Whakapai
Bar, Cafe, Pub Grub, Contemporary, European, Vegetarian
With a name that means ‘food made good’, this lakefront cafe and bar is known for offering quite a well-rounded experience. Whether you’re popping in for a quick lunch during the day or a low-key dinner at night, Kai Whakapai has got all tastes covered. Expect to be spoiled for choice when it comes to locally produced craft beers, a great selection of vegetarian dishes, cafe cabinet treats and all sorts of decently priced meals.
3. The Spice Room
Restaurant, Indian
If you have an affinity for Indian cuisine, a visit to The Spice Room is an absolute must. Deliciously authentic dishes are the main draw card here, and the venue even offers wine matches with its meals to add a local flavour into the mix. If you’re keen to dine in, it is recommended that you book a table as this is quite a popular establishment.
5. Relishes Cafe
Cafe, Restaurant, Contemporary, European, Oceanian, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free
6. Cardrona Hotel
Bar, Restaurant, Pub Grub, Contemporary, European, Wine, Beer, Fast Food
There’s more to the Cardrona Hotel than a rustic countryside charm: its cozy bar and restaurant is a favourite among guests, Wanaka locals and travellers who have popped in for a lunch while out on the road or dinner after a day of exploring. Traditional pub thoroughfares, using the area’s freshest seasonal produce, are always a given. Craft beers and celebrated wines from the Central Otago region are also available for those wanting to sip something local.
7. Urban Grind
Bar, Cafe, Restaurant, Contemporary, European, Asian, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free
8. Ode Conscious Dining
Restaurant, European, Oceanian, Contemporary
9. Lake Bar
Bar, Gastropub, European, Pub Grub, Contemporary, Wine, Beer
The Lake Bar is a gastropub with beautiful views and a great menu to match. The venue is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there’s even a kids’ menu available if you happen to be looking for a family-friendly place to unwind. All-day offerings like the seafood chowder and shared tasting platters are some of the restaurant’s top crowd pleasers.
10. Red Star Burger Bar
Restaurant, Sandwich Shop, North American, Fast Food, Vegetarian, Wine, Beer
Queenstown has the famous Fergburger; Wanaka has Red Star. This budget-friendly joint has been plating up gourmet hamburgers since 2004 and has gained quite a loyal following over the years. There are beef, lamb, chicken, fish, vegetarian and even breakfast burger options to sink your teeth into. Portions are always huge and ingredients are primarily sourced from local producers.
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