Where To Eat In Hokitika

Hokitika, a charming coastal town on New Zealand’s West Coast, is a haven for foodies and travelers alike. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant arts scene, Hokitika is also a treasure trove of culinary delights. With its unique blend of traditional Kiwi cuisine, fresh seafood, and artisanal produce, the town offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to every taste and budget.

Overview

From casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, Hokitika’s food scene is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural environment. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a romantic dinner, Hokitika has something to offer. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the town’s best eateries, cafes, and restaurants, highlighting the must-try dishes, local specialties, and hidden gems that will make your dining experience in Hokitika truly unforgettable.

What to Expect

In the following sections, we’ll explore the top recommendations for where to eat in Hokitika, including:

• Seafood restaurants serving the freshest catches of the day
• Artisanal cafes offering delicious breakfast and brunch options
• Family-friendly eateries serving up classic Kiwi comfort food
• Upscale restaurants with stunning views and exceptional service
• Hidden gems and local secrets that only the locals know about

So, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Hokitika and discover the town’s best-kept secrets!

Where to Eat in Hokitika: A Foodie’s Guide

Hokitika, a charming coastal town on New Zealand’s West Coast, is a haven for foodies. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and abundance of fresh seafood, Hokitika offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Kiwi fare to international cuisine, this guide will take you on a culinary journey to the best places to eat in Hokitika.

Cafes and Breakfast Spots

Start your day with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of Hokitika’s cozy cafes. Here are some top picks: (See Also: Where To Eat In Tobermory)

• The Craft Kitchen Cafe: Known for its creative dishes and excellent coffee, this cafe is a must-visit for breakfast enthusiasts. Try their signature dish, the “Craft Kitchen Breakfast,” featuring free-range eggs, bacon, and hash browns.
• The Hokitika Bakery: This family-owned bakery has been a local institution for over 20 years, serving up freshly baked bread, pastries, and pies. Their breakfast menu features mouth-watering treats like croissants and quiches.
• The Beachcomber Cafe: Located on the beachfront, this cafe offers stunning ocean views to accompany your breakfast. Their menu features a range of options, from omelets to pancakes and waffles.

Seafood Lovers’ Paradise

Hokitika is renowned for its fresh seafood, and you’ll find an array of restaurants serving up the catch of the day. Here are some top seafood spots:

• Stations Inn Restaurant: This popular restaurant is located in the heart of Hokitika and serves up an impressive range of seafood dishes, including fish, mussels, and scallops. Be sure to try their famous seafood chowder.
• The Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant: With its waterfront location, this restaurant offers stunning views of the Tasman Sea while you dine on fresh seafood. Their menu features a range of options, from fish and chips to more elaborate dishes like seafood paella.
• The Hokitika Fish and Chip Co.: For a more casual seafood experience, head to this popular takeaway shop, which serves up delicious fish and chips, as well as other seafood treats like mussels and scallops.

International Cuisine

Hokitika may be a small town, but it boasts a surprising range of international cuisine options. Here are some top picks:

• Sato’s Japanese Restaurant: For a taste of Japan in Hokitika, head to Sato’s, which serves up authentic dishes like sushi, ramen, and udon noodles.
• Tanuki’s Sushi and Asian Fusion: This popular restaurant offers a range of Asian-inspired dishes, including sushi, noodles, and curries. Be sure to try their signature dish, the “Tanuki’s Dragon Roll.”
• La Cucina Italian Restaurant: For a taste of Italy in Hokitika, head to La Cucina, which serves up delicious pasta dishes, pizzas, and risottos.

Pubs and Bars

After a day of exploring Hokitika, unwind with a cold beer or a glass of wine at one of the town’s cozy pubs or bars. Here are some top picks:

• The Hokitika Hotel: This historic hotel has been a local institution for over 100 years and offers a range of beers, wines, and spirits. Enjoy live music and sports games in the bar area.
• The Riverside Hotel: Located on the banks of the Hokitika River, this hotel offers stunning views to accompany your drink of choice. Their bar menu features a range of snacks and light meals.
• The Fat Pipi Pizzeria and Bar: This popular spot serves up delicious pizzas, as well as a range of beers and wines. Enjoy live music and a relaxed atmosphere.

Foodie Events and Markets

Hokitika hosts a range of foodie events and markets throughout the year, showcasing the region’s best produce and artisanal goods. Here are some top picks:

• Hokitika Wildfoods Festival: Held annually in March, this festival celebrates the region’s wild foods, including seafood, game meats, and foraged ingredients. Enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, and food stalls.
• Hokitika Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday morning, the Hokitika Farmers’ Market comes alive with local produce, artisanal goods, and street food. Be sure to try some of the region’s famous whitebait fritters.
• West Coast Wine and Food Festival: Held in November, this festival showcases the region’s best wines and foods, including seafood, cheese, and chocolate. Enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings.

Foodie Tips and Tricks

Here are some insider tips and tricks for making the most of your foodie adventure in Hokitika:

• Try the local specialties: Hokitika is famous for its whitebait, so be sure to try some of the region’s famous whitebait fritters or patties.
• Visit the Hokitika Fish and Chip Co.: This popular takeaway shop is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Try their famous fish and chips, as well as other seafood treats like mussels and scallops.
• Explore the local markets: Hokitika’s farmers’ market and craft market offer a range of local produce, artisanal goods, and street food. Be sure to try some of the region’s famous whitebait fritters.
• Book ahead for popular restaurants: Hokitika’s top restaurants can get busy, especially during peak season. Be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Conclusion

Hokitika is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Kiwi fare to international cuisine, this charming coastal town has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of international cuisine, or just looking for a great cup of coffee, Hokitika has it all. So why not start planning your foodie adventure in Hokitika today? (See Also: Where To Eat In Wrightsville Beach)

Recap:

• Hokitika offers a range of cafes and breakfast spots, including The Craft Kitchen Cafe and The Hokitika Bakery.
• The town is renowned for its fresh seafood, with top spots like Stations Inn Restaurant and The Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant.
• Hokitika also boasts a range of international cuisine options, including Japanese, Asian fusion, and Italian restaurants.
• The town has a range of cozy pubs and bars, including The Hokitika Hotel and The Riverside Hotel.
• Hokitika hosts a range of foodie events and markets throughout the year, including the Hokitika Wildfoods Festival and the Hokitika Farmers’ Market.

By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to discovering the best of Hokitika’s food scene. Happy eating!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Hokitika

What are the must-try foods in Hokitika?

Hokitika is famous for its seafood, particularly whitebait, which is a delicacy in New Zealand. You should also try the local lamb, venison, and seafood chowder. Don’t forget to indulge in some of the region’s delicious artisan cheeses and craft beers.

Are there any good restaurants in Hokitika that serve vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes, many restaurants in Hokitika cater to vegetarians and vegans. Some popular options include the Hokitika Cafe, which serves delicious vegetarian breakfast dishes, and the Fat Pipi Pizzeria, which offers vegan pizza options. Be sure to check out the menus online or ask your server for options.

Can I find any budget-friendly dining options in Hokitika?

Absolutely! Hokitika has a range of dining options to suit all budgets. You can grab a quick and affordable bite to eat at one of the many cafes or food trucks in the area. The Hokitika Fish and Chip Shop is a popular spot for a tasty and affordable meal. (See Also: Where To Eat In Sanur)

Are there any restaurants in Hokitika that offer stunning views?

Yes, several restaurants in Hokitika offer breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline or mountains. The Ocean View Restaurant at the Beachfront Hotel Hokitika is a popular spot, as is the Stumpers Bar and Restaurant, which has a large outdoor deck with stunning views of the Tasman Sea.

Do I need to book a table in advance at popular restaurants in Hokitika?

It’s highly recommended to book a table in advance at popular restaurants in Hokitika, especially during peak season (December to February). Many restaurants can get quite busy, and you don’t want to miss out on your favorite spot. You can usually book online or by calling the restaurant directly.