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$5.99 (as of September 18, 2024 12:33 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Welcome to “Yummy Eats in New Zealand and Where to Find Them,” where your upcoming culinary adventure across the mesmerizing landscapes of New Zealand begins! This guide is packed with delectable recommendations, from vibrant city cafes to quaint small-town eateries, each offering mouth-watering dishes that cater to every palate, including vegetarians and those needing gluten-free options. As you explore, you’ll discover standout spots like CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen in Rotorua, the enchanting Hobbiton Party Tent in Matamata, and Fergburger in Queenstown, plus many more gems scattered across the North and South Islands. Get ready to savor the flavors of New Zealand and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey! Have you ever wondered what culinary delights are waiting for you in New Zealand? If you’re a food lover planning a trip to this breathtaking country, get ready to treat your taste buds to some extraordinary dishes. From the bustling streets of Wellington to the serene landscapes of the South Island, New Zealand offers a variety of delectable eats that cater to every palate. Below, you’ll find my favorite bites in New Zealand and where you can enjoy them for yourself.
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North Island
CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen, Rotorua
Located in Rotorua’s Eat Street, CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen offers a mix of pub classics and New Zealand specialties. This spot is perfect for a casual yet tasty meal. You’ll find a wide range of options, including an excellent open-faced vegan sandwich with fries that I absolutely loved. If you’re into sauces, you’ll definitely appreciate New Zealand’s enthusiastic use of aioli here!
A fun side note: through an app, I could control the music playing in the restaurant, which led to Hubby realizing I had switched up the tunes to all my favorite artists.
Hobbiton Party Tent
If you’re a fan of “The Lord of the Rings” movies, then the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata is a must-visit. They offer a variety of tour options, and we chose the Movie Set Tour + Meal Combo, which included lunch in the Party Tent. The buffet-style feast was surprisingly delicious and catered well to vegetarian and gluten-free diets. The staff gave extra attention to Hubby’s dietary needs, making this one of the standout food experiences of our trip.
Dixie Browns, Taupo
Dixie Browns, located in scenic Taupo, combines a great lakefront location with a diverse menu featuring a range of dishes. We dined here with another couple, and everyone at our table had positive things to say about their meals. It’s a great spot to enjoy some solid food with an excellent view.
MOOMAA, Marton
MOOMAA is an eclectic eatery in Marton that’s perfect for a relaxed lunch or coffee break. Situated conveniently on the route from Rotorua or Taupo to Wellington, it offers gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Their cheese scones and coffee are particularly noteworthy, making it a delightful stop.
Fidel’s Cafe, Wellington
On Wellington’s quirky Cuba Street, Fidel’s Cafe is known for its laid-back vibe and excellent coffee. It’s a popular brunch spot with a menu that includes gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. We enjoyed Sunday lunch here, where I had their Scrambled Tofu while Hubby opted for the Fidel’s Feast. Both dishes were absolute hits.
South Island
Sandfly Cafe, Te Anau
Sandfly Cafe in Te Anau is a cozy spot offering a great selection of homemade baked goods and coffee. We loved it so much that we returned the next morning for some “second breakfast.” Their breakfast and lunch options cater well to different dietary needs, making it a must-visit in Te Anau.
Patagonia, Queenstown
When in Queenstown, a stop at Patagonia for some ice cream, truffles, or coffee is a must. The variety and quality of their offerings are superlative. If you can, grab a seat upstairs for a view of the lake while you enjoy your treats.
Stratosfare, Queenstown
Stratosfare offers an extraordinary dining experience at the top of the Skyline Gondola in Queenstown, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Wakatipu. The food is top-notch, and we particularly enjoyed the premium dinner for a guaranteed window table. We booked our reservation early enough to watch the sunset, making it an unforgettable experience.
Fergburger, Queenstown
Fergburger is something of a legend in Queenstown, known for its massive, delicious burgers. You’ll find a range of options, from the classic beef burger to vegetarian and even venison. Be prepared for a line, but it’s worth the wait. With limited seating, consider grabbing your burger to go and enjoying it by the lake.
Amigos, Wanaka
Amigos in Wanaka offers a laid-back vibe and a menu full of tasty options. I recommend trying a variety of their soft tacos. The Coliflor (cauliflower) and Ceboletta (tempura spring onion) were my favorites, although the tofu taco didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Despite that, the overall experience was delightful.
Big Fig, Wanaka
Big Fig focuses on wholesome, slow-cooked food with generous portions and plenty of flavor. Their daily-changing menu features Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, including roasted meats and salads. The lemon ricotta pancake I had for breakfast was one of the best things I’ve ever eaten, and Hubby’s medium plate was loaded with delicious hot food options.
Mt. Cook Alpine Salmon Shop, Lake Pukaki
If you find yourself near Lake Pukaki, don’t miss the chance to try local freshwater king salmon at the Mt. Cook Alpine Salmon Shop. Located on the shores of the lake, it’s a convenient stop for those heading to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Hubby tried their smoked salmon and loved it, a great addition to our grocery supplies for our stay in the park.
Alpine Restaurant, Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
The Alpine Restaurant in the Hermitage Hotel offers fine dining with stunning scenery. The dinner buffet we had was excellent, with plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options. The large windows provide spectacular views of the mountains, making for an experience that’s worth planning for in your trip budget.
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The Bottom Line
Though food wasn’t the primary reason for our trip to New Zealand, the country offered so many delicious detours. We made lots of tasty memories that will stick with us for a long time, and we’re already looking forward to revisiting some of these excellent eateries on a future trip.
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New Zealand is not just a feast for the eyes with its stunning landscapes, but also a gastronomic delight with its diverse food scene. Happy eating, and enjoy your trip!
