The Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Wanaka, New Zealand

As its name suggests, Soul Food is a cafe dedicated to organic wholefoods (free from refined sugar and gluten) that are nourishing, tasty and healthy. Everything is made from scratch on the day, including their smoothies, nut milks and juices. Plunger coffee is the shop’s forte — try the espresso to get a kick out of the fresh grinds on offer.

You’ll be hard pressed to find another place that takes its coffee as seriously as The Coffee Shack. This is not the place for a traditional cafe experience; rather, the focus is entirely on the roasts and brews prepared by the shop’s knowledgeable baristas. If you like a sugary treat with your cuppa, there is a small selection of sweets, muffins and biscuits.

Relishes is a cafe and restaurant known and loved for its lakefront vistas, locally roasted coffee, freshly baked goodies and flavoursome contemporary cuisine. Breakfast/brunch is served until 2:30 p.m. daily, with classics like free-range Eggs Benedict and breakfast parfaits.

If you think of yourself as a foodie, Florence’s Cafe is the place to go. With an adjoining shop that stocks specialty foodstuffs from all corners of the globe, plus the cafe’s artisan breads, assorted pastries and classic breakfast dishes, this place will please all appetites and palates. Good coffee, tasteful teas and a welcoming atmosphere are added bonuses.

Cafe Gusto is a lakefront venue that offers a relaxed vibe with its strong coffee blends. Fresh baking, an array of gluten free and vegetarian meal options, plus an ever-changing selection of blackboard specials, are some of the features that have made this cafe a hit with all who visit. Try the freshly squeezed juices if you need to wean yourself off the caffeine for a little while — otherwise, opt for a creamy flat white that will keep you buzzing for hours.

Beanie Cafe is a good spot for breakfast, a cup of coffee or a nice slice of cake during the day. The cafe is part of Wanaka Hotel, but locals and visitors from all walks of life come by to relish its delicious food and all-round fantastic ambiance. Keep an eye out for their regular specials.

Amazing coffee, quality food that caters to vegetarians, gluten free options and incredibly friendly service are some of the reasons folks are drawn to Ritual Espresso Cafe. On a sunny day, make sure to grab a table outside for the ultimate al fresco brunch experience.