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We've compiled the best of the best in Whanganui - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
The local newspaper used to be produced in this historic building, but the premises now house a friendly café that doubles as a retro clothes and arts store. A large communal wooden table takes pride of place near the streetside windows, so this is a great place to chat with locals or just people-watch while you enjoy a cup of organic, fair-trade coffee.
Traditional Japanese food made with a mix of imported Japanese ingredients and fresh local produce is the star here. There's also a good selection of beer, sake, rice wine, and New Zealand beverages. Momiji is set in an old heritage building, once a post office, in the CBD.
This relaxed bar–restaurant specializes in pizzas, burgers, light meals, salads, and meaty main courses. It's also a music venue and hosts weekly quiz nights. There's a strong Kiwi character here, with wool presses for bar stands and giant screens for watching sports.
Join the locals at this cozy café, spread throughout the veranda, garden, and several intimate rooms of an old, mostly yellow villa. It serves a full breakfast/brunch menu with all the classics as well as wholesome, house-cooked lunches. It's located across the road from the river and a two-minute drive from the city center. The café caters well to vegetarians and vegans (try the open vegan sub with falafel, vegan cream cheese, and caramelized onion) and meat eaters are well looked after with options like a slow-cooked lamb shoulder salad.
