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This wholesome foodie café is a local institution, a few minutes' walk north of town and worth the trip. In the morning you'll find tasty free-range eggs and bacon, plus freshly baked, genuinely stone-ground whole-grain bread served with marmalade or their own honey. The lunch and dinner menus use organic ingredients wherever possible, and there are wheat- and gluten-free options as well. On sunny days, snag a table on the veranda.
33a Beach Rd., Kaikoura, Canterbury, 7300, New Zealand
Known For
- House-made bircher and organic muesli bowls for breakfast
- Open fish sandwiches
- Mountain and ocean views
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. No dinner
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This is definitely one of the best on-the-road cafés in the whole area. Friendly locals serve great breakfasts and wholesome, homemade lunches to both passersby and the campers in the adjacent Department of Conservation campsite. The venison pies are great, too. It's located beside the rocky, tree-lined Pelorus River, where the hobbits in Lord of the Rings performed their famous "Barrel Scene." It's usually busy in January and February, but the staff takes the crowds in stride. A bonus is the swimming hole down the track just across the road.
State Hwy. 6, at Pelorus Bridge, Havelock, Marlborough, 7192, New Zealand
Known For
- House-made pies
- Alfresco tables in beautiful bush setting
- Busy crowds in summer
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At this café, shop, and produce market in a former church, enjoy breakfasts of French toast, free-range eggs Benedict, or free-range eggs cooked any way you like. Then stock up for your holiday travels from the food market. Or you can just chill over a wholesome lunch like the excellent slow-roast lamb burger. There's also an interesting kids' menu, and you can indulge in the cakes and berry ice creams anytime. Beverages include fresh brews from the Townshend Brewery next door. Weekend dinners in summer feature music performances.
502 High St., Motueka, Tasman, 7120, New Zealand
Known For
- Fresh, wholesome local foods
- Wooden toys and furniture for sale made by the owners
- Townshend Brewery beers
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner except in summer on Fri. and Sat.
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This big, indoor–outdoor café–restaurant overlooking a rolling surf beach on State Highway 1 makes one of the best road stops in the area (maybe even the whole country). You can choose lunch from a selection of prepared dishes or order from the menu. You'll find it halfway between Kaikoura and Blenheim. It's a beautiful, wild spot with the Kaikoura Mountains towering in the background. There's a huge log fire inside and a large outdoor deck with several private garden areas. Just make sure you stop early because it usually closes by 4 pm.
5748 State Hwy. 1, Kekerengu, Canterbury, 7371, New Zealand
Known For
- Location with wild coastal views and sprawling gardens and lawns
- Classic fish-and-chips
- Outdoor deck to enjoy the view while eating
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner, Reservations essential
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The owners spent years restoring this old pub, and now the place hums with activity and tasty food. Locally cured bacon, venison patties, wild (bush) pork sliders, house-made pies, and salads all vie for attention on the breakfast/brunch/lunch menus. Bar snacks and baked goods are offered all-day, and dinner steps up with a stylish à la carte menu. Riders from the local cycle trail will be staying here; there's also a great local scene with live music and community events.
81 Seddon St., Kumara, Hokitika, West Coast, 7832, New Zealand
Known For
- The community's local pub
- History (ambience) meets modernity (food)
- Classic miner's breakfast
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Recommended Fodor’s Video
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Lots of wholesome breakfast and lunch options, hot snacks, and sweet treats are offered here. Some popular choices include the snapper (fish) sandwich, Beechwood burgers, and real fruit ice cream. This is a great place to stock up for your rafting or hiking efforts, and they manage the passing crowds well.
32 Waller St., Murchison, Tasman, 7007, New Zealand
Known For
- Popular stop for bus passengers so gets crowded
- Classic highway café
- Nice selection of to-go foods
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Here's a bright outdoor eatery sharing space with the Dolphin and Albatross Encounter operations and a gallery/shop. Food is available off the all-day menu or from the cabinet; breakfasts and light lunches are appealing; and their cakes and slices are always tempting. The partially glassed-in courtyard is sheltered in most winds, and there's plenty of indoor seating. As at any outdoor café in Kaikoura, don't leave your food unattended because the birds will snatch it quicker than you can say "seagull!"
96 The Esplanade, Kaikoura, Canterbury, 7300, New Zealand
Known For
- Waterfront views
- House-made baking
- Big breakfasts before you hit the sea in pursuit of dolphins and seabirds
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner
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This standout along Fox Glacier's main street sparks up no-nonsense options with fresh local flavors, such as the Neve pizza topped with mozzarella, ham, bacon, pepperoni, tomatoes, and pineapple. From breakfast and on to lunch and dinner, the menu is big and varied, taking you through eggs Benedict, BLT sandwiches, soups and chowders, burgers, chicken, pizzas, and rib-eye steak—just what you need after a day exploring or driving. Everything is prepared on-site (muffins recommended). The wine list has only New Zealand vintages, and the beers are boutique.
37 Main Rd., Fox Glacier, West Coast, 7886, New Zealand
Known For
- New Zealand--focused wine list
- Veranda dining to watch the tourists
- Varied menu of NZ classics
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations not accepted
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This old bank building is loaded with local character in its current guise as a cheerful pub and gathering spot. If the coal-mining heritage of this town interests you, you will enjoy the memorabilia and photos on display. They serve good Kiwi food here, anything from breakfast and brunch to light meals to kids' meals to stone-grill steaks and seafood. The meals are hearty, and it's a very kid-friendly spot. There's a big covered courtyard for summer dining.
18 Wakefield St., Westport, West Coast, 7825, New Zealand
Known For
- Traditional New Zealand food
- Big breakfasts
- Stone-grilled meats and seafood
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Homey hospitality and a great vibe in this colorful, retro-style spot comes with house-cooked breakfasts (scrambled eggs are as good as you'll find anywhere), lunches, and baked goods. Plus, the outlook over the Grey River is terrific.
104--108 Mawhera Quay, Greymouth, West Coast, 7805, New Zealand
Known For
- Local art on display
- Hip, funky vibe
- Tasty coffee and breakfasts
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner
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Every town needs a darn good café, and this one is Blenheim's. The breakfast menu runs all day on the weekends, with all the standard Kiwi options like hotcakes, eggs, and muesli. The menu offers fresh, simple food for lunch, with plenty of wheat- and gluten-free options, as well as an impressive tea and coffee menu. Try the smoked chicken Caesar salad. Locals love this place, with its sharp, almost industrial decor.
1C Main St., Blenheim, Marlborough, 7201, New Zealand
Known For
- Big hot chocolates, fresh smoothies, and great coffee
- House-made cranberry and orange muesli
- Vegetarian breakfasts
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner Tues.--Sun.
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The locally sourced, mainly organic food at this funky place includes a raft of home baking, chutneys and dressings, and hearty country fare like chowders and salads. There's cozy indoor seating, and tables dotted throughout the garden and veranda. For the kids there's a small playground, an enchanted forest, and some extremely tame eels that can be hand-fed (September–May). This eclectic establishment makes no apologies for being open only on Fridays 10 am–10 pm. Down in the back garden, the Boot B&B has comfy accommodations for couples.
320 Aporo Rd., Tasman, 7173, New Zealand
Known For
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Tame eels (to feed, not eat)
- Twice-baked three-cheese soufflé
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sat.--Thurs.
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Regional, artisanal produce is showcased at this upbeat, all-day café that’s been around for more than 20 years. Wholesome breakfasts, lots of in-house baking, and a tasty lunch menu are the stars here. Try the Nashville Hot Chicken. You can dine in the spacious indoor areas or on the terrace, and enjoy the changing exhibitions of emerging local artists.
244 Hardy St., Nelson, Nelson, 7010, New Zealand
Known For
- Moroccan eggs for breakfast
- Atomic coffee matched with locally produced Oakland milk
- Tasty, innovative children's menu
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner
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A little café open daily, Pancake Rocks serves a full breakfast, lunch, and (in summer) dinner menu. This place is famous for it all-day pancake stacks and gourmet stone-oven pizzas, the cabinet food is delicious too. There's also a small gallery/gift shop here, selling quality New Zealand souvenirs, including jewelry. The staff copes well given the hordes that can arrive here.
Coast Rd., Punakaiki, West Coast, 4300, New Zealand
Known For
- Pancake stack with maple syrup and bacon
- Quirky decor
- Stone-oven pizzas
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There’s a huge range of fare on the menu here, be it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Breakfasts are served until 3 pm, and coffee and cake are always ready on the go. Light lunch choices include salads, burgers, and lots of seafood, and the dinner menu showcases salmon, venison, and rib-eye beef. They're especially proud of their signature fish-and-chips on Friday. You’ll be dining with the locals here.
13 Cobden St., Westport, West Coast, 7825, New Zealand
Known For
- Fresh market fish, delivered directly from the boats
- Bistro burgers
- Local atmosphere
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon., Reservations essential
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Good food and good coffee is served every day in a welcoming, rustic setting. It's hard to find, tucked around a corner, so it's mostly frequented by locals and those in the know. There's plenty of room and free Wi-Fi, with hours extending a touch in summer.
51 Fairfax St., Murchison, Tasman, 7007, New Zealand
Known For
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Big helpings
- Lamb shank
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At this quirky café and delicatessen, the honey comes directly from the in-house beehive. A breakfast menu, baked goods (try the cheese scones), and lunch dishes that change with the seasons are on offer. Coffee is from Christchurch roaster, Empire. Great selection of craft wine and beers too. On your way out, stock up from the deli.
84 Revell St., Hokitika, West Coast, 7810, New Zealand
Known For
- Cheese tasting menus
- In-house beehive
- Wholesome to-go food
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The Māpua Wharf setting complements the food, and you can watch the boats go by while dining on quality produce (organic when possible) washed down with Nelson wines, ciders, and craft beers. All bread is baked in-house, the coffee is great, and the menu serves a mix of small and large plates. You can dine inside or outside. Once an apple packing shed, this restaurant utilizes its waterfront location perfectly.
Shed 3, Mapua, Tasman, 7005, New Zealand
Known For
- Dining overlooking the water
- Golden Beer craft beer from the brewery next door
- Local fish and shellfish dishes
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Sustainably caught seafood is the star at this casual, friendly café, but other menu offerings are equally appealing. Meals range from eggs, pancakes, and toasties for breakfast and brunch to lunch steaks, soups, and salads. There’s also a range of the finest Kiwi craft beers and very good coffee served at this indoor/outdoor eatery.
70 West End Rd., Kaikoura, Canterbury, 7300, New Zealand
Known For
- Seafood chowder
- Kiwi craft beer menu
- Board games to keep diners entertained
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner
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Set in the old Tākaka movie theater, this place is synonymous with the alternative feel that is Golden Bay. The breakfast and lunch menus are substantial and wholesome, or you can catch an early dinner on Friday and Saturday when they are open until 8 pm. There's plenty of room to find a table, even at the height of summer. Eat indoors or out, and you’ll be joined by all walks of the local community.
60 Commercial St., Takaka, Tasman, 7110, New Zealand
Known For
- Funky vibe
- Amazing baked goods
- Coffee sourced direct from high-altitude farmers in Timor Leste
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner Sun.–Thurs.