Beyond the Eggs Bene, Here's Where to Get Your Brunch Fix in Wānaka

Barista making coffee at Kamino.

With plenty of beautiful fit-outs, premium roasted coffee and health-and earth-conscious brunch places, you’re sure to find the one that suits you.

Words by: Ashlyn Oswalt

Photography by: Nancy Zhou & Anna Briggs

Wānaka’s best brunch spots are dotted around the town, but they all have one thing in common - fueling your next adventure. Whether that’s soaking in lakeside views and coffee-shop hopping, or skiing down a mountain, Wānaka has what you need to start your day. 

Scroggin

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71 Ardmore Street, Wānaka

‘Gather, feast, stay awhile’ is Scroggin’s tagline, and we couldn’t think of a slogan more suitable for this Wānaka brunch favourite. The airy, Scandanavian-inspired space is perfect for all seasons, featuring a cosy fire to warm winter hands and big open a-frame windows to take in the lake and township views. If you’re just after a coffee, try their cold brew option roasted by Flight, to start your day. For brunch, there’s a wide array of options for dietary restrictions, from classic granolas to sandwiches that will satisfy hunger pains around the clock.

Federal Diner

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47 Helwick Street, Wānaka

A beloved spot in Wānaka’s centre, Federal Diner dishes up breakfast favourites that feature organic eggs, free-range meats and their Wānaka-famous scones. Snag a seat inside and bask in the funky, eclectic decor, or check out their sun-drenched courtyard. The perfect backdrop to sip Emporio coffee and examine their extensive menu. You wouldn’t be the first person to like this place so much you make a table booking for dinner, too.

Urban Grind

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72 Ardmore Street, Wānaka

Set inside an industrial, lofty space near the lakefront, Urban Grind lives up to its name. Exposed brick walls, pendant lighting and trendy seating invite you to grab a coffee and more in this delightful Wānaka spot. Their trained team of baristas will whip you up something to stir the soul and their kitchen is sure to surprise and delight. Among the breakfast fare here you can find additions like a Thai pancake or poke bowl. You can linger well into the evening hours at Urban Grind, so grab yourself another coffee and settle in.

Kamino

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28 Helwick Street, Wānaka

The gorgeous white and marble fit out of Kamino is enough to pull you in, but the coffee and pastries will keep you there. We suggest ordering an iced coffee - or a milkshake if you’re feeling naughty - while you pour over the breakfast menu. Eggy global fare takes the cake here, so try something new and you won’t be disappointed. If you’re ready for coffee #2, head outside and enjoy their sun-drenched patio with a sweet treat on display.

Neat Wānaka Places

Paloma

Four plates of Mexican food from Paloma Wanaka on a wooden table.
Place Wānaka
Bars key icon. Restaurants key icon.

Creators of authentic Mexican fare, Paloma has a simple (but by no means easy) mission: to make the best tacos in Wānaka possible using New Zealand ingredients.

Melanie Craig Design

A woman doing a head stand on a couch.
Place Wānaka
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Find inspiration in this relaxed design hub where their seasonal avant-garde furniture collection is a must see.

Perriam

Child mannequin with table of clothes.
Place Wānaka
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Perriam is a brand designed by long time local, Christina Perriam, and is the perfect combination of high country stations and beautiful fashion,

Federal Diner

Staff member making a Chemex coffee.
Place Wānaka
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Hidden down an alleyway, Federal is a Wānaka best kept secret and a favourite with the locals thanks to its great food, speciality coffee and relaxed atmosphere.