Nelson is known for great local wines and freshproduce, and with good reason. Whether your tastes run to simple foods or elaborate feasts, you’re sure to find a meal to remember in Nelson.Here’s some of our favourite spots for lunch and dinner.
Hopgood’s & Co
Offering fine food in a relaxed environment, the beautiful heritage building that contains this award winning restaurant makes for elegant surroundings. The owners describe their cuisine as “simple food done well”, which is a modest way to describe their innovative approach to flavour mixing. Be sure to leave room for dessert, as it’s a specialty of this restaurant.
Ford’s Restaurant and Bar
We suggest arriving a little early when you dine at Ford’s so you can enjoy a selection from the cocktail bar before your meal. A menu with plenty of local seafood, organic meats and a wide assortment of side dishes means there’s something for everyone here. With the restaurant doing all of its own baking and fermenting, along with growing fresh herbs and vegetables, you can be sure what you’re getting is as fresh as can be.
Panama
A great place for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, we especially love Panama’s assortment of small plates – a great way to sample plenty of the local produce with your friends.
Cod and Lobster Brasserie
Seafood and Cocktails? That’s what this restaurant specialises in, tantalising your tastebuds with small plates and matched drinks, or more substantial offerings which include not only fresh seafood but venison, lamb, beef and other local meats as well. Whether it’s a light meal of tapas or a five-course feast you’re after you can find it here.
East Street Café
If you prefer your meals without meat, this vegetarian and vegan café is the perfect spot. With a quirky retro fitout, this fun and friendly place has a great selection of tasty foods for lunch or dinner. The portions are generous so bring a healthy appetite and you’re sure to be satisfied here.
The Mussel Inn
Technically outside of Nelson but worth the drive over to Golden Bay, this inn-come-music venue is a South Island staple. Known for fantastic food, great music and all around good vibes, ‘The Mussel’ (as it’s known by locals) is a must-visit while you’re in Nelson.
