Wanaka’s foodie scene is growing, with several chic restaurants opening their doors. With some tightly-held favourites, visitors and locals have considerable choices when it comes to Wānaka restaurants. From cheap eats to sophisticated fare, Wānaka, New Zealand, offers excellent food and local wines.
Fine dining restaurants in Wanaka
Kika – elegant, mouth-watering sharing. A list of the best restaurants in Wānaka wouldn't be complete without Kika, the culinary darling of Wānaka locals. Located in central Wānaka, this award-winning restaurant (Cuisine Good Food Awards 2023/2024) is known for its incredible food and innovative dinner menu presentation, showcasing flavours from locally sourced produce and décor. Book your table early, as Kika is packed every night based on word-of-mouth recommendations alone. Visit kika.nz
Arc – unbeatable brunch and tapas. Arc is an all-day fine-dining restaurant serving beautifully crafted breakfasts, Euro-chic lunches, and decadent tapas on its evening menu. This sophisticated bar and eatery offers a truly incredible dining experience, with passionate staff serving regionally sourced produce that showcases the flavour of Wānaka. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty meal or want to graze on a selection of small plates, Arc is one of the top restaurants in town for food lovers looking to eat well in a stylish setting. Visit arcwanaka.co.nz
Bistro Gentil – a French love affair. The Bistro Gentil team focuses on crafting local produce into modern French cuisine, often straight out of their kitchen garden. Paired with in-house Maude wines, this Wānaka institution offers a tranquil setting paired with incredible flavours. Visit bistrogentil.co.nz
New kids on the block
Paloma Taqueria and Bar – authentic Mexican meets New Zealand ingredients. Paloma's mission is to make New Zealand's best tacos with a modern twist; anyone who has sampled their menu would agree they've cracked it. The interior of the bar and restaurant is beautifully designed with a warm pink palette, curved walls, and an enormous collection of back-lit tequilas, creating a great atmosphere. Visit palomawanaka.co.nz
Muttonbird – quirky and casual. The creators of Muttonbird have focused on doing simple food beautifully well, offering up a regularly changing menu of seasonal treats. While unpretentious, the delicious dishes are refined and creative, served in a lively, welcoming setting looking out to the majestic Southern Alps. Visit muttonbird.co.nz
Something different
Fu Dog – Wanaka-born Asian-fusion. Fu Dog turns the best New Zealand ingredients into fresh Japanese, Korean and Chinese-style dishes. Renowned for its incredible flavours, this modern Asian restaurant is a great place to dine with friends and family in a relaxed setting. Visit fudog.co.nz
Hook – lake to plate. Attention salmon lovers! Embark on a unique culinary journey at Hook, where you can catch your own Chinook salmon — the largest freshwater sports fish species in New Zealand — and have the talented team prepare it to perfection. Alternatively, place your order with the kitchen and take in the tranquil ambience. Savour tasty food paired with the finest wines from the region while taking in the awe-inspiring vistas. Visit hookwanaka.nz
Big Fig – slow food, served fast. Ethical eating and great food are at the heart of Big Fig, with everything made in-house and served canteen style. The restaurant is a local favourite, boasting delicious hot dishes, tasty side salads and barista coffee. Whether you dine indoors or at their outdoor seating, you'll be treated to incredible lake views, making your visit to Big Fig a true feast for the senses. Visit bigfig.co.nz