Great food stops on the Southern Scenic Route
Few journeys capture the wild beauty of the South Island like the Southern Scenic Route. Stretching from Dunedin to Queenstown, this stunning road trip winds through ancient forests, wildlife-rich peninsulas and some of the country’s most jaw-dropping alpine and coastal landscapes. There are plenty of places to stop for great food. Here are just a few.
Dunedin dreaming
Your adventure begins in Dunedin, where wildlife lovers are spoiled with everything from sea lions and blue penguins to the world’s only mainland northern royal albatross breeding colony, plus a thriving historical city centre and New Zealand’s only castle. When it comes to eating, you’re equally spoiled - start the day at Vanguard Café for coffee (roasted by them), fun, creative brunches and a cabinet groaning with baked treats - or if you’re on the Otago Peninsula, pop in to Augustine’s of Portobello Farmstore and Kitchen, for a true taste of Central Otago (do not skip the lamingtons) For dinner, No 7 Balmac delivers arguably the city’s best neighbourhood dining with flavour-packed plates with nods to the Middle East and the Med and Piccolo is the perfect stop for drinks and fabulous Italian snacks right on stunning St Clair Beach.
The Catlins
The road reveals a series of quietly scenic and historic stops before pulling you into the untamed beauty of The Catlins - a place of waterfalls, lighthouses, rugged coastline and even a 180-million-year-old fossil forest. If you haven’t experienced Southland's famous blue cod yet, definitely make a pitstop at Waihola Fish and Chips for some of the best in the region.
Destination Invercargill
Invercargill makes a great overnight stop, and if you’re staying at The Langlands Hotel - or even if you aren’t - head straight to their top floor bar for an excellent selection of New Zealand gins, including some produced just kilometres away (if you have time, definitely visit award-winning Bluff Distillery on your travels). During the day, locals will all recommend The Batch Café, known for its unwavering devotion to supporting local producers - and a chef who really knows what to do with that produce. Pie lovers should also make time for Fat Bastard Pies, a local institution with a cult following.
Fabulous Fiordland
From here, it’s on to Fiordland, home to both Milford and Doubtful Sound. This is one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural regions, with its glorious mountains, forests, glaciers, alpine lakes, waterfalls, towering cliffs and fiords. Te Anau, often used as a base for exploration, has some great spots for a bite. Milford Road Merchant is a local go-to for excellent coffee, cheese scones and shelves of artisan goods to purchase and Ditto is a standout for casual dining or grab-and-go, where the creative chef pairs Asian flavours with Southland produce (venison bao, anyone?). For something heartier, The Fat Duck, currently New Zealand’s top gastropub, serves up dishes like local lamb and venison, as well as its much-loved duck wontons.
The road to Queenstown
The final stretch leads to Queenstown, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and beneath the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps. You'll never be short of great eating options here: Sherwood is always a good time and definitely deserving of its prestigious awards (much of what is cooked there comes from their enormous onsite garden). Canyon Brewing provides excellent local brews with spectacular views - and if you have time, the trip to Cardrona Distillery is one you’ll never regret. Heaven for whisky geeks but also those who like gin, vodka and excellent food in a truly stunning setting. Deservedly awarded, it's well worth doing the Trust The Chef menu paired with single malt spirits.
On the Southern Scenic Route, world-class scenery is matched by seriously good eating at every turn. Pack your appetite, allow time for food detours, and enjoy the ride.
Inspiration
Expand your horizons by exploring ours, discover the regions and the multitude of experiences of the Southern Way.
