New Zealand, a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures, is also home to a diverse and tantalizing food scene. From the bustling cities to the serene countryside, the country offers a myriad of culinary experiences that are sure to delight any food enthusiast.
New Zealand cuisine draws influence from indigenous Māori and Polynesain roots. There are also several dishes you’ll recognize as versions of British staples.
In New Zealand, there is also a strong focus on locally-sourced farm-to-table food. For this reason, you’ll see many restaurants that have a heavy focus on seafood, as well as lamb.
While Kiwi cuisine is certainly not as diverse or flavorful as Thai food or Mexican cuisine, there are some New Zealand foods you should definitely try on your trip.
On my recent trip, I had the pleasure of dining at six incredible establishments, each offering a unique taste of New Zealand’s rich gastronomic heritage.
In this article, I’ll cover the most popular foods in New Zealand, as well as some desserts and drinks that Kiwis are particularly proud of.
1. The Grove, Auckland
Location and Ambiance
Located in the heart of Auckland’s bustling city center, The Grove is nestled in Saint Patrick’s Square, a serene spot amidst the urban sprawl. The restaurant’s modern and sophisticated ambiance is complemented by its elegant décor and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The dim lighting and intimate seating arrangements make it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
Culinary Experience
The Grove is renowned for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the degustation menu, a multi-course tasting experience that highlights the chef’s creativity and expertise. Each dish was a masterpiece, both in presentation and flavor.
– Degustation Menu Price: NZD 150 per person
– Dishes Tasted:
– Amuse-Bouche: A delightful start featuring a smoked eel mousse with apple gel and microgreens. The smoky, creamy mousse paired perfectly with the tartness of the apple.
– Entrée: A beautifully plated dish of seared scallops with cauliflower puree, black garlic, and crispy pancetta. The scallops were tender and sweet, enhanced by the rich flavors of the accompaniments.
– Main Course: Roasted lamb loin with kumara (sweet potato) fondant, minted peas, and a rosemary jus. The lamb was succulent and cooked to perfection, and the kumara added a touch of sweetness.
– Dessert: A deconstructed pavlova with kiwi sorbet, passionfruit curd, and meringue shards. This dessert was a refreshing and innovative take on a classic New Zealand favorite.
Recommendation and Booking
I highly recommend The Grove for its exceptional food, impeccable service, and elegant atmosphere. Reservations can be made through their official website or popular booking platforms like OpenTable.
Nearby Attractions
After dining, take a stroll through the nearby Viaduct Harbour, a vibrant area with stunning waterfront views, lively bars, and entertainment options. The Auckland Art Gallery is also within walking distance, offering a rich collection of national and international art.
2. Fergburger, Queenstown
Location and Ambiance
Situated on Shotover Street in the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown, Fergburger is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts. This iconic burger joint is always bustling with both locals and tourists, and the vibrant, casual atmosphere is part of its charm. The tantalizing aroma of grilling meat wafts through the air, drawing you in even from a distance.
Culinary Experience
Fergburger is famous for its generously sized, gourmet burgers made with high-quality ingredients. The extensive menu offers a variety of options, from classic beef burgers to inventive vegetarian choices.
– Burger Prices: Range from NZD 12 to NZD 18
– Dishes Tasted:
– The Fergburger: The flagship burger featuring prime New Zealand beef, lettuce, tomato, red onion, aioli, and tomato relish. The beef was juicy and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the fresh vegetables and tangy sauces.
– Southern Swine: A delicious combination of beef, American streaky bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and aioli. The addition of avocado and bacon added a rich, creamy, and smoky flavor.
– Sweet Bambi: A unique burger made with Fiordland deer, topped with Thai plum chutney, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and aioli. The venison was tender and slightly gamey, balanced by the sweetness of the chutney.
Recommendation and Booking
Fergburger is a must-visit for its legendary burgers and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a walk-in establishment, so be prepared for a wait, especially during peak times. However, the wait is well worth it!
Nearby Attractions
After satisfying your burger cravings, explore the scenic Queenstown Gardens, a beautiful park offering stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. For adventure seekers, the Skyline Queenstown offers gondola rides and thrilling activities like luge rides and zip-lining.
3. Riverstone Kitchen, Oamaru
Location and Ambiance
Located just outside Oamaru, in the idyllic countryside of North Otago, Riverstone Kitchen is a charming restaurant set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. The rustic yet elegant décor creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing meal.
Culinary Experience
Riverstone Kitchen prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown in their own gardens. The menu reflects a strong farm-to-table ethos, with a focus on seasonal produce and inventive flavors.
– Menu Prices: Mains range from NZD 25 to NZD 45
– Dishes Tasted:
– Entrée: Freshly shucked Bluff oysters served with lemon and shallot vinaigrette. The oysters were plump and briny, a true taste of the sea.
– Main Course: Pan-roasted blue cod with potato and herb gratin, baby carrots, and beurre blanc sauce. The cod was flaky and moist, perfectly paired with the rich, creamy gratin and delicate beurre blanc.
– Dessert: Rhubarb and apple crumble with vanilla bean ice cream. The crumble was warm and comforting, with a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors.
Recommendation and Booking
Riverstone Kitchen is a hidden gem offering exquisite food in a serene setting. Reservations are recommended and can be made through their website or by phone.
Nearby Attractions
While in Oamaru, visit the historic Victorian Precinct, a charming area with beautifully preserved buildings, galleries, and shops. The nearby Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony offers the unique opportunity to see these adorable birds up close.
4. Logan Brown, Wellington
Location and Ambiance
Located in a stunning heritage building on Cuba Street, Logan Brown is one of Wellington’s most celebrated fine dining establishments. The interior features high ceilings, elegant décor, and an inviting, sophisticated atmosphere.
Culinary Experience
Logan Brown offers a refined dining experience with a menu that showcases the best of New Zealand’s produce and culinary creativity. The tasting menu is a highlight, offering a journey through a variety of flavors and textures.
– Tasting Menu Price: NZD 130 per person
– Dishes Tasted:
– Amuse-Bouche: A delightful bite of smoked salmon with horseradish cream and dill. The salmon was silky and flavorful, with a nice kick from the horseradish.
– Entrée: Venison carpaccio with beetroot, horseradish, and watercress. The venison was tender and delicate, beautifully complemented by the earthy beetroot and peppery watercress.
– Main Course: Pan-seared snapper with squid ink risotto, fennel, and saffron sauce. The snapper was perfectly cooked, and the squid ink risotto added a rich, savory depth.
– Dessert: Dark chocolate fondant with salted caramel ice cream and hazelnut praline. The fondant was decadent and rich, with the salted caramel ice cream providing a perfect balance.
Recommendation and Booking
Logan Brown is a must-visit for its exceptional cuisine and elegant setting. Reservations are essential and can be made through their website or on platforms like OpenTable.
Nearby Attractions
After dining, explore the vibrant Cuba Street, known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and street performers. The nearby Wellington Waterfront is also a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll, with beautiful views and interesting sculptures.
5. Fleur’s Place, Moeraki
Location and Ambiance
Nestled on the waterfront of the charming fishing village of Moeraki, Fleur’s Place is a rustic seafood restaurant offering stunning views of the harbor. The cozy, homely atmosphere is enhanced by the warm wooden interiors and the friendly, welcoming staff.
Culinary Experience
Fleur’s Place is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, often straight from the fishing boats to the kitchen. The menu changes daily based on the catch, ensuring the freshest and most sustainable seafood.
– Menu Prices: Mains range from NZD 25 to NZD 45
– Dishes Tasted:
– Entrée: Freshly shucked oysters served natural with a squeeze of lemon. The oysters were fresh and briny, a perfect start to the meal.
– Main Course: Pan-fried blue cod with potato salad, greens, and caper butter. The cod was flaky and moist, with the caper butter adding a deliciously tangy flavor.
– Dessert: Lemon tart with raspberry coulis and whipped cream. The tart was zesty and refreshing, with the raspberry coulis adding a lovely contrast.
Recommendation and Booking
Fleur’s Place is a must-visit for seafood lovers, offering fresh and delicious dishes in a charming setting. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times, and can be made through their website or by phone.
Nearby Attractions
While in Moeraki, visit the famous Moeraki Boulders, a natural wonder featuring large, spherical boulders
scattered along the beach. The nearby Katiki Point Lighthouse is also worth a visit, offering stunning coastal views and a chance to see seals and penguins.
6. Amisfield Bistro, Lake Hayes
Location and Ambiance
Located near the picturesque Lake Hayes, just a short drive from Queenstown, Amisfield Bistro is set within the beautiful grounds of Amisfield Winery. The restaurant’s rustic stone building and vineyard views create a serene and elegant dining environment.
Culinary Experience
Amisfield Bistro offers a unique “Trust the Chef” menu, where the chef creates a selection of dishes based on the best seasonal produce available. This dining experience allows for a culinary adventure, with each course being a delightful surprise.
– Trust the Chef Menu Price: NZD 120 per person
– Dishes Tasted:
– Entrée: A selection of canapés, including smoked salmon blinis, duck liver parfait, and asparagus with hollandaise. Each bite was bursting with flavor, showcasing the chef’s creativity.
– Main Course: Braised lamb shoulder with seasonal vegetables and herb jus. The lamb was tender and flavorful, with the herb jus adding a delightful freshness.
– Dessert: A trio of desserts including a chocolate mousse, lemon posset, and berry sorbet. Each dessert was a perfect ending to the meal, offering a range of textures and flavors.
Recommendation and Booking
Amisfield Bistro is a must-visit for its innovative cuisine and stunning location. Reservations are essential and can be made through their website or on booking platforms like OpenTable.
Nearby Attractions
After dining, take a leisurely walk around Lake Hayes, known for its beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains. The nearby Arrowtown is also worth a visit, offering charming streets, historic buildings, and boutique shops.
My culinary journey through New Zealand was an unforgettable experience, filled with incredible food, warm hospitality, and stunning locales. Each of these six dining establishments offered something unique, reflecting the diverse and rich culinary landscape of this beautiful country.
