A Gastronomic Odyssey: Savoring Wanaka’s Food and Wine

Wanaka, a tranquil haven in New Zealand’s South Island, is not just a feast for the eyes with its breathtaking landscapes but also a culinary delight waiting to be explored. we’ll embark on a culinary journey through Wanaka, where I’ll share my personal experiences at three exceptional dining establishments and wine selections. I’ll also offer recommendations for three other fantastic food and wine experiences in this charming town.

Exploring Gastronomic Delights

1. Kika

Location: 76 Ardmore St, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand
Experience: Kika, an intimate restaurant, offers a contemporary New Zealand dining experience. The innovative use of local ingredients and an ever-evolving menu make it a must-visit. I savored their lamb shank, which was tender and bursting with flavor, while the local Pinot Noir perfectly complemented the dish. The cozy ambiance and attentive service made it a memorable experience.

The Menu: Kika’s menu is a gastronomic journey through New Zealand’s finest produce. They are known for their farm-to-table approach, which ensures that the ingredients are as fresh and local as can be. I was thrilled to see the fusion of international and Kiwi flavors on the menu. From succulent seafood to hearty meat dishes and delectable vegetarian options, Kika caters to a variety of palates.

Service Beyond Compare: I must begin by extolling the exceptional service at Kika. From the moment I stepped inside, the staff was welcoming, attentive, and extremely knowledgeable about the menu. The sommelier recommended a superb local wine to accompany our meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Pros: Creative menu, local ingredients, excellent wine selection
Cons: Limited seating, reservations recommended
Rating: ★★★★☆

Kika left me thoroughly impressed. The combination of exceptional service, an inviting ambiance, and exquisite food made it an unforgettable dining experience. What truly sets this restaurant apart is their dedication to sustainability and supporting local farmers. It adds an extra layer of appreciation for the effort that goes into each dish.

Kika is the kind of restaurant where you not only enjoy your meal, but you savor it. The flavors are rich, the presentation is impeccable, and the overall experience is a testament to the passion and expertise of the chefs and staff.

2. Francesca’s Italian Kitchen

Location: 93 Ardmore St, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand
Experience: For a taste of Italy in Wanaka, Francesca’s is the place to go. I indulged in their wood-fired pizza, which had a perfectly crisp crust and deliciously fresh toppings. Paired with a glass of their Chardonnay, it was a delightful meal. The restaurant’s warm and welcoming atmosphere added to the experience.

Ambiance: As I entered Francesca’s, I was immediately struck by its cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. The restaurant manages to strike a balance between a relaxed and upscale setting, making it suitable for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. The interior exudes a rustic Italian charm, with wooden beams, soft lighting, and an open kitchen that adds a touch of excitement to the dining experience.

Menu: Francesca’s Italian Kitchen’s menu is a culinary voyage through Italy, offering an extensive selection of both traditional and contemporary Italian dishes. From the classic antipasti to irresistible dolci (desserts), each course is a showcase of flavors. Their pasta is made fresh in-house, and their wood-fired pizzas are renowned in the local culinary scene.

Pros: Authentic Italian cuisine, wood-fired pizza, friendly staff
Cons: Popular and can get busy, so book in advance
Rating: ★★★★★

My dining experience at Francesca’s Italian Kitchen was nothing short of extraordinary. The inviting ambiance, coupled with the mouthwatering dishes, made for a truly memorable dining adventure. It felt like a culinary journey through Italy, right in the heart of Wanaka.

The attention to detail in the presentation of the dishes and the quality of the ingredients was evident in every course. The restaurant manages to capture the essence of Italian cuisine – straightforward, delicious, and heartwarming.

Francesca’s Italian Kitchen isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place to revel in and appreciate the art of Italian cooking. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a family dinner, or a friendly gathering, this restaurant provides the perfect backdrop.

3. Big Fig

Location: 105 Ardmore St, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand
Experience: Big Fig is a gem for breakfast lovers. Their avocado toast, served with poached eggs and a sprinkle of dukkah, was a delightful morning treat. The café also offers a variety of healthy smoothies and great coffee. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a perfect spot to start your day.

Pros: Delicious breakfast, fresh ingredients, outdoor seating
Cons: Limited parking, popular during breakfast hours
Rating: ★★★★☆

Recommendations for Food and Wine Enthusiasts

1. The Spice Room

Location: 67 Brownston St, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand
Experience: The Spice Room offers an array of delectable Indian dishes. Their butter chicken is a crowd-pleaser, and the naan bread is simply irresistible. Pair your meal with a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful fusion of flavors.

Pros: Authentic Indian cuisine, vegetarian options, flavorful dishes
Cons: Small space, reservations recommended
Rating: Highly recommended.

2. Bistro Gentil

Location: 76A Golf Course Road, Wanaka 9382, New Zealand
Experience: Bistro Gentil is known for its French-inspired cuisine. The duck confit and escargot are must-tries for a taste of France in Wanaka. The extensive wine list featuring local and international selections will please any wine connoisseur.

Pros: French cuisine, extensive wine list, beautiful views
Cons: Limited vegetarian options, booking ahead advised
Rating: Highly recommended.

3. Rippon Winery

Location: 660 Mount Aspiring Rd, Wanaka 9382, New Zealand. Rippon Winery enjoys an enviable location, boasting breathtaking panoramas of Lake Wanaka and the enveloping mountains. The winery, positioned at the base of the iconic Ruby Island, provides patrons with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings while indulging in the remarkable wines on offer.

Established in 1982, Rippon Winery proudly boasts a history steeped in the art of winemaking. The Mills family, who have overseen the winery’s operations, are trailblazers in the realm of organic and biodynamic viticulture in Central Otago. Their steadfast commitment to sustainable and ethically sound practices underscores the family’s mission to preserve the land and create wines that reflect the essence of the terroir.

One of Rippon Winery’s most notable attributes lies in its meticulously cultivated vineyards. These vines thrive on the terraced slopes overlooking Lake Wanaka, capitalizing on the region’s unique microclimate. The combination of elevation and specific climatic conditions results in wines that are a true embodiment of character, purity, and a genuine representation of the land.

Rippon Winery specializes in the production of a variety of wine varietals, with a strong emphasis on Pinot Noir, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, and Osteiner. Each of their wines is a testament to the distinctiveness of its place of origin, and has garnered accolades from wine enthusiasts and critics alike.

Visitors to Rippon Winery have the privilege of engaging in a truly unique wine-tasting experience. The winery’s rustic cellar door, thoughtfully integrated into the natural landscape, provides the backdrop for these tastings. It offers the opportunity to sample their exceptional wines while being enveloped by the awe-inspiring vistas of Wanaka.

Rippon Winery is celebrated for hosting a spectrum of events and weddings. The conjunction of natural splendor, world-class wines, and an indelible setting makes it a favored choice for those looking to commemorate special occasions.

The Mills family’s dedication to sustainable and ethical agricultural practices forms the cornerstone of Rippon Winery’s philosophy. The vineyards bear the certification of being both organic and biodynamic, signifying a harmonious relationship with the land and a commitment to crafting wines that honor the environment.

Rippon Winery in Wanaka is a destination of choice for oenophiles and admirers of nature alike. The unwavering commitment of the Mills family to ethical and sustainable winemaking, in conjunction with the sheer magnificence of their locale, gives rise to a wine-tasting experience that is both enlightening and eternally memorable. With wines that are a true expression of terroir and vistas that are nothing short of spellbinding, Rippon Winery encapsulates the quintessence of Wanaka’s natural beauty and the art of winemaking.

Experience: Rippon Winery not only offers remarkable wines but also a stunning location overlooking Lake Wanaka. They provide tastings, and you can purchase a bottle to enjoy on their picnic tables. Pair your wine with a local cheese platter for a complete experience.

Pros: Scenic location, exceptional wines, friendly staff
Cons: Limited food options, best to bring your own picnic
Rating: Highly recommended for wine enthusiasts.

Wanaka’s culinary scene caters to various tastes, and the local wines, particularly the Pinot Noir, are a must-try. Each of the places I visited had its unique charm and provided memorable moments. The recommendations come highly praised by both locals and visitors, ensuring a delightful culinary experience in this picturesque town.

Navigating Wanaka’s Culinary Delights

Getting There: To reach Wanaka, you can fly into Queenstown Airport and take a scenic 1.5-hour drive. Alternatively, you can arrive at Wanaka Airport and reach the town center in a short 10-minute drive.

Recommendation Index: Wanaka’s food and wine scene receives a resounding recommendation. The diverse options ensure there’s something for everyone, from casual breakfast spots to fine dining experiences.

Booking: I recommend making reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons. Websites and apps like TripAdvisor, Bookatable, or directly contacting the restaurants are efficient ways to secure your dining experience.

Wanaka’s culinary journey is a feast for the senses, and the delightful blend of flavors and views will leave you with lasting memories of this charming New Zealand town.