Best Places to Eat in New Zealand South Island
New Zealand's South Island features breathtaking mountains, beautiful lakes and ancient glaciers. But beyond its natural beauty, the South Island is also offering a diverse array of dining experiences.
This guide will take you on a gastronomic journey across the South Island, highlighting the best places to eat in Christchurch, Queenstown, Dunedin, Te Anau, Franz Josef and Oamaru. All of these destinations are accessible on one of our South Island bus tours.
From sophisticated urban eateries to charming lakeside cafes and remote wilderness lodges, the best places to eat in New Zealand can often be found tucked away in this southern paradise.
Discover why the South Island is quickly becoming a must-visit for food lovers.
Christchurch: A City Reborn with a Vibrant Food Scene
Christchurch, the South Island's largest city, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. From the ashes of earthquakes, a resilient and innovative spirit has emerged, particularly evident in its delicious food scene. You'll find a fantastic mix of established fine dining and trendy new eateries, making it a prime spot to explore the best restaurants in Christchurch.
For an upscale dining experience, Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar consistently ranks among the best restaurants in Christchurch. Located in the arts precinct, it offers a sophisticated menu with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients and an impressive wine list. Their lamb and venison dishes are particularly noteworthy. Another strong candidate for best eats in Christchurch is Twenty-Seven Steps, a cosy and intimate bistro known for its impeccable service and modern European cuisine. Their slow-cooked short rib is legendary.
If you're looking for more casual yet equally delicious options, Little High Eatery is a fantastic choice and one of the best eateries in Christchurch. This busy food hall concept brings together a diverse range of vendors, offering everything from gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas to authentic Vietnamese and Mexican fare.
It's a great place to go with a group, ensuring everyone finds something they love. For a taste of local charm and excellent coffee, The Caffeine Laboratory is a popular spot among the places to eat in Christchurch New Zealand, perfect for breakfast or a light lunch.
No discussion of the best places to eat in Christchurch New Zealand would be complete without mentioning the thriving cafe culture. Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters not only serves exceptional coffee but also offers a delicious brunch menu in a stylish setting. For those seeking something truly unique, Smash Palace offers a quirky, motorcycle-themed atmosphere and serves up some of the city's best burgers and craft beers.
Queenstown: Adventure Capital with a Gourmet Edge
Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world, isn't just about adrenaline-pumping activities; it's also home to some of the best places to eat in Queenstown. After a day of bungy jumping or skiing, you'll be spoiled for choice with an impressive variety of restaurants, from fine dining establishments with panoramic lake views to cozy cafes and lively bars. When considering good places to eat in Queenstown, you'll quickly realise the standard is remarkably high.
For an unforgettable dining experience, Rātā consistently tops lists of the best restaurants in Queenstown. Helmed by celebrity chef Josh Emett, Rātā showcases modern New Zealand cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their tasting menu is a culinary journey not to be missed.
Another standout for fine dining is Amisfield Bistro, located just outside Queenstown in Gibbston Valley. This winery restaurant offers stunning views and a sensational "Trust the Chef" menu that perfectly pairs with their award-winning wines, making it a strong contender for the best restaurant in Queenstown.
When you're looking for places to eat in Queenstown New Zealand that offer both incredible food and breathtaking views, Botswana Butchery is a superb choice. Specialising in premium cuts of meat, this restaurant offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere right on the waterfront. Their extensive wine list perfectly complements their hearty dishes. For a more casual but equally delicious option, Eichardt's Bar offers a refined pub experience with stunning lake views and a menu featuring elevated classics.
For those wondering what must eat in Queenstown NZ, a visit to Fergburger is practically a rite of passage. This legendary burger joint has queues stretching down the street for a reason – their colossal, gourmet burgers are simply incredible. Be prepared to wait, but it's well worth it.
For a taste of the best NZ seafood, particularly for lunch, Erik's Fish and Chips offers classic takeaway fish and chips with a view, making it one of the best lunch spots in Queenstown.
If you're after Queenstown restaurants, explore the main street. Atlas Beer Cafe is a local favorite, known for its extensive craft beer selection and delicious, hearty pub fare, particularly their steak.
Dunedin: Historic Charm Meets Culinary Innovation
Dunedin, with its Scottish heritage and student population, boasts a vibrant and diverse food scene that often surprises visitors. You'll find a delightful mix of traditional pubs, trendy cafes, and sophisticated restaurants, showcasing the best Dunedin restaurants.
For a memorable meal, Moiety is widely considered one of Dunedin's best restaurants. This intimate fine dining establishment offers a seasonal tasting menu that highlights local produce with creative flair and impeccable presentation. It's a culinary experience that truly stands out.
Another great food place is No.7 Balmac, a stylish bistro with a focus on modern New Zealand cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their wood-fired dishes are particularly popular.
If you're looking for a more relaxed setting, Two Little Red Fish offers delicious and fresh seafood in a casual environment, making it a great option among the best Dunedin restaurants. For exceptional coffee and a fantastic brunch menu, The Perc Cafe is a local favorite and a must-visit. Their cabinet food is also excellent for a quick bite.
Dunedin's student population ensures a lively and affordable dining scene too. Explore George Street for a wide array of international cuisines, from authentic Asian eateries to vibrant Mexican restaurants. For a traditional pub experience with hearty meals, Speight's Brewery Alehouse offers classic New Zealand pub fare and the chance to sample their iconic beer, making it a great option for a casual meal.
Te Anau: Gateway to Fiordland's Flavors
Te Anau, the picturesque gateway to Fiordland National Park, might be a small town, but it offers some surprisingly good dining options, making it home to the best places to eat in Te Anau. After exploring the wonders of Milford Sound or Kepler Track, you'll appreciate the comforting and delicious meals available.
For an upscale dining experience, Redcliff Restaurant & Bar is widely considered the best restaurant in Te Anau. It offers a sophisticated menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, particularly excellent venison and lamb dishes. The cosy ambiance and friendly service add to its appeal.
For a more relaxed but equally delicious meal, Miles Better Pies lives up to its name, serving up incredibly tasty and satisfying pies that are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. It's often cited as one of the best Te Anau restaurants for casual dining.
Another excellent choice among the best places to eat in Te Anau is The Fat Duck Gaslamp Restaurant & Bar. This popular spot offers a diverse menu, including pizzas, burgers and hearty mains, all prepared with fresh ingredients.
It's a great option for families and groups. For those looking for a casual cafe experience, Sandfly Cafe offers excellent coffee, baked goods, and light meals, perfect for a pre-adventure breakfast or a post-hike refuel.
Franz Josef Glacier: A Taste of the West Coast
Franz Josef Glacier, a stunning natural wonder on the West Coast, also offers a few good options for refueling after a day of exploring. While not as extensive as the larger cities, you'll still find some appealing choices among the Franz Josef Glacier restaurants and for the best food in Franz Josef.
For a hearty meal in a lively atmosphere, Snake Bite Brewery is a popular choice. It's one of the most prominent Franz Josef Glacier restaurants, offering a good selection of craft beers, pizzas, burgers and classic pub fare. It's a great spot to relax and share stories of your glacier adventures.
Another solid option among the places to eat Franz Josef is Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar. This establishment offers a diverse menu ranging from New Zealand classics to international dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone. It's a reliable choice for a satisfying meal.
For a more casual option, especially for breakfast or lunch, The Landing Restaurant & Cafe provides good coffee, baked goods, and light meals. It's a convenient stop before or after your glacier excursions. The key here is to embrace the casual, welcoming vibe of the West Coast.
Oamaru: Steampunk Charm and Culinary Delights
Oamaru, a charming Victorian town famous for its steampunk aesthetic and blue penguin colony, also offers some delightful culinary surprises. You'll find a growing number of excellent eateries, making it home to the best restaurants in Oamaru and best places to eat in Oamaru.
For a unique dining experience, Riverstone Kitchen is a must-visit, although it's a short drive south of Oamaru. This award-winning restaurant is known for its incredible farm-to-table philosophy, with much of the produce grown on-site. It's consistently rated as one of the best restaurants in Oamaru and indeed, one of the best in the South Island. Their innovative dishes and beautiful setting make it a truly special occasion dining spot.
Within Oamaru itself, Scott's Brewing Co. offers a fantastic combination of craft beer and delicious pub food in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s one of the top choices among the best places to eat in Oamaru for a casual yet quality meal. Their pizzas and platters are highly recommended.
For a taste of local history and a good meal, Criterion Hotel Restaurant provides a charming setting in a historic building, serving up hearty New Zealand fare. It's a great option for experiencing the town's unique ambiance while enjoying a satisfying meal. Don't forget to explore the Victorian precinct for charming cafes and bakeries for lighter bites and excellent coffee.
Conclusion
The South Island of New Zealand is not just a feast for the eyes but also a true paradise for good food lovers. From the culinary hubs of Christchurch and Queenstown to the charming smaller towns like Te Anau, Franz Josef and Oamaru, there's an incredible amount of dining experiences waiting to be discovered.
Many travelers choose to explore these culinary highlights through organised itineraries, and Kirra New Zealand tours for over 50s are a perfect example of how to see it all without the stress of driving. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite and prepare for a journey through the South Island that you won't soon forget.