2 Best Restaurants in Otago, Invercargill, and Stewart Island, New Zealand

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Dunedin has the area's highest concentration of good restaurants. Seafood is a big player, in part because of Dunedin's coastal location but also because of its proximity to Bluff, the home of New Zealand's great delicacy, the Bluff oysters. Many of the least-expensive options are café-like Asian restaurants; these tend to close early, around 9 pm. Locals don't usually dress up or make reservations for anything other than the most exclusive establishments.

Invercargill has a more limited selection of mostly moderately priced restaurants. Stewart Island has a reasonable selection considering its location, but in winter some places limit their hours or close.

Salt Bar & Restaurant

$$$ Fodor's Choice

In an iconic art deco building, this is the place to dine in St. Clair, a leafy seaside neighborhood along a spectacular beach. Sate yourself with a shared plate of slow-roasted lamb shoulder; the less carnivorous may wish to try the risotto or salad. The bar's cool aura of chrome finishing and art deco style is warmed by the dining area, which has a brick fireplace. A huge brunch menu caters to all tastes, and many dishes can be made gluten-free. The service is extremely friendly. Brunch is available only on weekends.

240 Forbury Rd., Dunedin, 9012, New Zealand
03-455–1077
Known For
  • Sunny corner location close to beach
  • Delicious food at reasonable prices, including weekend brunch
  • Reservations essential
Restaurant Details
Reservations essential

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The Kitchen Table Cafe & Bake

$

At this centrally located café and bakery, artisan bakers craft delicious, wholesome food. You can choose from pancakes, French toast, or good old eggs Benedict for breakfast, or maybe a panini for lunch; the bakery makes delicious bagels, too. Mindful of vegan taste buds and customers with lactose and gluten intolerance, the owners have created a gooey brownie as well as a variety of other sweet treats. Large windows throw light into the warm and homey interior, while chunky wooden furniture encourages conversations.

111 Moray Pl., Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
03-477–0232
Known For
  • Cozy atmosphere
  • Some of the best coffee in town
  • Reasonably priced sweet treats and baked goods, with some vegan and gluten-free options
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun. No dinner

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