The Unique Taste of Ōamaru: Food and Drink Heroes of the Waitaki Region
Victoria Lounge and Eatery
Victoria Lounge and Eatery in the heart of Ōamaru is a welcome addition to the burgeoning hospitality scene in this small town brimming with charm and character.
Del Mar
Perfectly positioned by the sea, Del Mar Eatery and Beach Bar in Ōamaru takes full advantage of its waterside views.
Casa Nova House & Restaurant 1861
Casa Nova House is a perfect example of Ōamaru’s historic architecture turning a new page in its storied history.
Bangkok Recipe
On the hunt for authentic and traditional Thai food in the heart of Ōamaru, then look no further than Bangkok Recipe.
The Criterion Hotel
First established in 1877, the Criterion Hotel Bar and Eatery is the jewel in the crown in the historic Victorian precinct in Ōamaru.
Cucina
Argentinian, Italian and Spanish flavours meet Kiwi hospitality at Cucina. Owners Yanina and Pablo, moved their family to Ōamaru in 2008, and celebrate the cuisine they grew up with through Waitaki's best ingredients.
Whitestone Cheese Co.
Whitestone Cheese opened its doors in 1987 in an old Ōamaru mechanic shop with one part-time cheesemaker. All these years on and the business produces 25 different kinds of cheese with a team of 75 strong.
The FishWife
Owned by a fourth-generation Moeraki fisherman, this dockside restaurant is the real deal. Snag a crayfish with chips for a meal that’s simple but supremely delicious, or go for the pāua patty which will have you renouncing beef burgers altogether. Whatever you go for, it’s all caught right here.
Tees St
Cucina’s day time counterpart with colourful, tasty brunch plates. The huevos rancheros have been winning ‘big brekkie’ traditionalists over since 2016 and the bombolino doughnuts are the mid-day treat you deserve.
River-T Estate Wines
River-T Estate vineyard and tasting room has the ‘largest selection of Waitaki wine in the world’. Sit inside or amongst the rows, sip a glass and get stuck into any of their locally sourced platters.
The Fort Enfield
A classic Kiwi pub reimagined — Speights and craft pours plus simple and delicious kai — pub fare as it should be. Drive or bike the 12km from Ōamaru and reward yourself with the best steak and chips around.
Craftwork Brewery
Ōamaru’s Heritage Precinct is an ode to tradition. In this way it only makes sense that it’s home to Craftwork - an award winning, small scale, Belgian brewery run by brewing couple, Lee-Ann Scotti and Michael O’Brien.
Cure Weekend Brunching with the Best Cafés in Ōamaru
Badger & Mackerel
Badger & Mackerel Messhall is an Ōamaru hub for great food, excellent service and a refreshing mix of big brekkie classics and modern brunch plates.
Riverstone Kitchen
Riverstone Kitchen has been working with Waitaki producers and growing their own ingredients since day one. Their simple, seasonal approach has earned a huge following and heaps of awards, so wander the veggie gardens, enjoy a meal and stay awhile.