Places to Eat

The Courthouse Café in Collingwood is a charming eatery set in a beautifully restored 1901 courthouse.
It serves fresh, locally sourced breakfasts, lunches, and Saturday night pizzas with quirky names.
Guests love the cozy indoor setting, sunny courtyard, and on-site pottery gallery.
With heritage charm and homemade goodness, it’s a must-visit in Golden Bay.

Unwind at this iconic Golden Bay pub, where hearty Kiwi fare meets stunning estuary views. Sip a local brew in the sunny garden bar, savour fresh whitebait or seafood chowder, and soak up the friendly, laid-back vibe that makes this a favourite with both travellers and locals.

Discover the charm of the Old School Café, Bar & Restaurant in Pakawau, set in a lovingly restored schoolhouse. Enjoy hearty local favourites like blue cod and wood-fired pizzas in a relaxed indoor or garden setting. Perfect for families, travellers, and locals alike. A true Golden Bay gem between Collingwood and Farewell Spit.

Serving the Aorere Valley since 1928, this historic store keeps its soul alive. Original shelves, vintage wares, and old post office charm remain intact. Sip tea from fine china and savour homemade baking steeped in tradition. A living museum of Golden Bay’s rural past – still welcoming travellers today.

Nestled in Onekaka along Golden Bay’s scenic coastal road, The Mussel Inn is a cozy café‑pub‑music venue with a laid‑back, family‑friendly vibe and rustic, woolshed‑meets‑farmhouse architecture. Famous for fresh steamed mussels and mussel chowder—and pours its own house‑brewed beers, ales, ciders and soft drinks

A place where “suits mix with bare feet and beards, and teenagers, farmers, mothers and yuppies are all comfortable together,” The Wholemeal Café is Golden Bay’s cozy, character-filled escape—perfect for breakfast, coffee, or catching up with friends.

Dangerous Kitchen is a must-visit Collingwood eatery known for its vibrant vibe and creative, freshly made dishes. Relax with wood-fired pizzas, hearty breakfasts, or great coffee before exploring Golden Bay. Its laid-back charm makes it a favourite stop for travellers on their way to Farewell Spit. A true local gem with flavours worth the journey.

Nestled in the heart of Tākaka, Roots Bar delivers on its “beats, beers, burgers, bands” promise with soul and sustainability. Expect world-famous burgers, ethical local fare—from wild-caught to vegan—and a rotating tap of Tasman craft beers. With rustic décor, an open fire, and a top-notch sound system, it’s Tākaka’s go-to venue for laid-back live music and warm vibes. For locals and travellers alike, it’s where flavour, music, and community converge.

Nestled right on Commercial Street, De-lish Delicatessen—often styled simply as De-lish—is a beloved local gem that exudes charm, flavour, and community spirit.

Step inside Bacca Bakery, where the air is warm with the scent of fresh bread and buttery pastries. A local favourite in Golden Bay, Becca’s is the go-to spot for artisan loaves, handmade pies, and sweet treats that taste like home. Whether you’re grabbing a crusty sourdough for your picnic, indulging in a still-warm cinnamon roll, or lingering over a coffee with a flaky croissant, every bite is crafted with care.

Hook your own Chinook salmon in minutes – no licence, no hassle. The team will hot-smoke, sashimi, or pack it fresh for you. Gear’s free, fun’s guaranteed, and the riverside café is perfect for a relaxed bite after your catch. A Golden Bay must do.

Step into the Telegraph Hotel, a historic pub at the heart of Tākaka with over a century of local charm. Enjoy generous Kiwi-style meals, cold drinks, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Offering classic pub hospitality with basic accommodation for travellers passing through Golden Bay. A true slice of local history—ghost stories included!

Nestled just north of Tākaka on Waitapu Wharf Road, The River Inn blends classic pub hospitality with budget accommodation, from campervan and tent sites to comfy bunks. Its hearty pub fare—especially the famed fish burger—pairs perfectly with a warm, sociable vibe and affordable prices. Surrounded by farmland and river views, it’s an ideal base to explore Golden Bay. A welcoming slice of rural NZ, with friendly hosts and a laid-back spirit.

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Nestled just steps from Pohara Beach, Ratanui Lodge Restaurant offers an intimate, relaxed fine-dining experience. With a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a menu that celebrates the best of Golden Bay’s produce, it’s perfect for a special night out or a leisurely evening after exploring the coast.

Craving authentic, hand-stretched pizza? Al Forno serves up delicious wood-fired creations topped with fresh, quality ingredients. From classic margheritas to inventive seasonal specials, every pizza is cooked to perfection in their roaring stone oven.

A laid-back, coastal gem just off Abel Tasman Drive, Molly B’s pairs relaxed dining with great drinks, generous indoor-outdoor seating, and a chilled vibe perfect for gathering or unwinding by the sea. With a menu that includes vegetarian and gluten-free options, it’s welcoming to varied tastes — and pet- and family-friendly too. The outdoor garden and bar area are especially popular, whether you’re looking for coffee and cake by day or cocktails at sunset.

Perched opposite Pohara Beach, Nikau Cafe & Bar is a charming seaside eatery known for relaxed indoor-outdoor dining amid native courtyard gardens and contemporary, warm design. It’s a cozy spot with a crackling open fire in winter and a big-screen TV indoors—perfect for romantic strolls on the beach after dinner.

Hillside, off-grid café with sweeping views of Wainui Bay. Wood-fired pizzas, organic drinks, and gallery-style charm. Built with earth, solar, and micro-hydro, blooming above the bush. A sustainable sanctuary where pizza and nature meet.