Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, Wānaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and vibrant culinary scene. Visitors to Wānaka can enjoy a wide array of dining options, from cozy cafes and fine dining restaurants to bustling food trucks and charming bakeries. We love our local eateries - here is a quick guide to some of the best places to eat and drink in Wānaka.
Kika Location: 2 Dunmore Street Cuisine: European, New Zealand Operating Hours: Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday but open from 5.30pm until late Thursday to Monday. Specialties: Sharing plates, seasonal dishes, Te Mana lamb shoulder
Kika is a tapas-style restaurant led by award-winning chef James Stapley, offering a menu that changes with the seasons and focuses on fresh, local ingredients. Bistro Gentil
Location: 76A Golf Course Road Cuisine: French Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 6 PM – 9 PM Specialties: 55-day aged beef fillet, market fish, lamb rump Bistro Gentil offers fine French cuisine with stunning views of Lake Wanaka. It's perfect for a special night out with a romantic setting. Bistro Gentil
Location: 93 Ardmore Street Cuisine: Italian Operating Hours: Daily 12 PM – 3 PM, 5 PM – late Specialties: Wood-fired pizza, homemade pasta, tiramisu Francesca’s is famous for its authentic Italian dishes. The cozy atmosphere and the delicious wood-fired pizzas make it a must-visit.
Location: 74 Ardmore Street
Cuisine: New Zealand, Contemporary
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, Brunch 9 AM – 2:30 PM, Bar/Tapas 5 PM – late
Specialties: Apricot & strawberry waffle, Turkish egg, Ora king salmon bagel.
Arc is known for its brunch menu and evening tapas. The beautiful native plant garden and the delicious coffee and breakfast cocktails make it a must-visit.
Location: 34 Ardmore Street
Cuisine: Korean
Operating Hours: Daily 11 AM – 9 PM
Specialties: Sushi, Ramen, Tempura
Shinaburo offers authentic Korean cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. It's a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
Location: 47 Helwick Street
Cuisine: Cafe, Contemporary, New Zealand
Operating Hours: Daily 7:30 AM – 3 PM
Specialties: Eggs Benedict, pancakes, specialty coffee.
Federal Diner is a popular spot for breakfast and brunch, offering a range of hearty and healthy options.
Location: 155 Ardmore Street
Cuisine: New Zealand
Operating Hours: Daily 11 AM – late
Specialties: Fish and chips, burgers, seafood
Located on the lakefront, The Lake Bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views.
Location: Sargood Drive Cuisine: New Zealand, International Operating Hours: Daily 7 AM – 9 PM Specialties: Seasonal dishes, local wines Edgewater Restaurant offers fine dining with stunning views of Lake Wānaka.
Location: 43 Helwick Street Cuisine: Indian Operating Hours: Daily 5 PM – 9:30 PM Specialties: Butter chicken, lamb rogan josh, vegetarian dishes The Spice Room is known for its rich and flavorful Indian cuisine. Big Fig
Location: 105 Ardmore Street Cuisine: Cafe, Mediterranean, Healthy Operating Hours: Daily 7 AM – 9 PM Specialties: Slow-cooked meats, fresh salads, homemade desserts. Big Fig is known for its delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The focus is on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Location: 145 Ardmore Street Cuisine: New Zealand, Bar Operating Hours: Daily 11 AM – late
Specialties: Tapas, cocktails, local beers
Water Bar is a popular spot for drinks and light bites with a view of the lake.
Location: 151 Ardmore Street
Cuisine: Bar, New Zealand
Operating Hours: Daily 11 AM – late
Specialties: Seafood, steaks, local beers
Trout is known for its casual atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes.
Location: 43 Helwick Street
Cuisine: Indian
Operating Hours: Daily 5 PM – 10 PM
Specialties: Tandoori chicken, paneer tikka, biryani
Bombay Palace offers a rich selection of traditional Indian dishes.
Location: 71 Ardmore Street
Cuisine: Mexican
Operating Hours: Daily 12PM – late
Specialties: Tacos, enchiladas, margaritas
Amigos is a vibrant Mexican restaurant perfect for a fun night out.
Location: 93 Ardmore Street Cuisine: Pub, New Zealand Operating Hours: Daily 11 AM – late Specialties: Pub classics, local beers The Speights Ale House offers a traditional pub experience with a great selection of local beers.
Location: 72 Ardmore Street
Cuisine: International
Operating Hours: Daily 8 AM – late
Specialties: Morning coffee, satiating lunches, evening pizza
Urban Grind is a versatile spot that caters to every meal of the day. It’s particularly known for its coffee and evening pizzas.
Location: 99 Ardmore Street Cuisine: Cafe Operating Hours: Daily 8 AM – 4 PM Specialties: Breakfast bowls, salads, specialty coffee Scroggin is known for its healthy and delicious breakfast and lunch options. Wanaka Bullock Bar & Grill
Location: 71 Ardmore Street
Cuisine: Pub, Grill
Operating Hours: Daily 11 AM – 11 PM
Specialties: Steaks, burgers, pub classics.
This lively bar and grill offers a casual dining experience with a wide selection of pub favorites.
Curbside - for the best coffee and bagels Charlie Brown's - for the best French crêpes
Pembroke Patisserie - for the best French/New Zealand, world famous, custard squares, doughnuts, pies and almond croissants.
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