Here’s a curated list of the Top 10 Restaurants in New Zealand, where fine dining meets fresh, locally sourced ingredients and breathtaking settings. These restaurants are renowned for their creativity, service, and ability to showcase New Zealand’s diverse culinary identity—from coastal seafood to award-winning farm-to-table fare.
Top 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in New Zealand
1. Sid at The French Café – Auckland
- Location: Symonds Street, Auckland
- Why Go: A flagship fine dining experience blending French technique with New Zealand ingredients.
- Highlights: Seasonal tasting menus, elegant service, and an intimate atmosphere.
2. Amisfield Bistro – Queenstown
- Location: Lake Hayes, near Queenstown
- Why Go: Set in a vineyard with a “Trust the Chef” menu that changes daily.
- Highlights: Hyper-local produce, exceptional wines, and rustic-luxury charm.
3. Roots – Lyttelton (near Christchurch)
- Location: Lyttelton, Canterbury
- Why Go: A sustainable fine dining gem with foraged and organic ingredients.
- Highlights: Daily degustation menu, intimate space, and bold New Zealand flavors.
4. Rātā – Queenstown
- Location: Central Queenstown
- Why Go: By Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett, celebrating NZ cuisine in a relaxed setting.
- Highlights: Lamb shoulder, South Island produce, fine local wines.
5. Logan Brown – Wellington
- Location: Cuba Street, Wellington
- Why Go: Elegant fine dining in a historic bank building with bold flavors and warm service.
- Highlights: Paua ravioli, wild venison, and sustainably caught seafood.
6. The Grove – Auckland
- Location: St Patrick’s Square, Auckland CBD
- Why Go: Contemporary fine dining with impeccable plating and wine pairings.
- Highlights: Tasting menus with global flair, beautiful ambiance.
7. Pacifica Restaurant – Napier
- Location: Hawke’s Bay
- Why Go: Gourmet Pacific Rim cuisine served in a laid-back beachside bungalow.
- Highlights: Five-course daily menu, regional seafood, and relaxed hospitality.
8. Cocoro – Auckland
- Location: Ponsonby, Auckland
- Why Go: Modern Japanese dining that’s minimalist and refined.
- Highlights: Sashimi platters, tasting menus, exceptional sake list.
9. Bistronomy – Napier
- Location: Art Deco District, Napier
- Why Go: Playful, seasonal food in a cozy, design-forward space.
- Highlights: Degustation or à la carte menus with a creative twist.
10. Fleurs Place – Moeraki
- Location: Coastal Otago
- Why Go: Rustic seaside restaurant serving whatever the boats bring in that day.
- Highlights: Fresh-caught fish, seasonal vegetables, wood-fired oven, and ocean views.