There is wonderful rustic charm to be found when exploring North Canterbury and the Waipara Wine region. The small towns and villages have a lovely appeal to them with some great cafes and restaurants to be found. In the wine region itself the there are several outstanding winery restaurants not to be missed with first-class cuisine and world-class wines to match.
A visit to Pegasus Bay Restaurant is a total food and wine experience. The emphasis is on freshness and simplicity, using predominantly local and home grown ingredients.
The menu is created around their own wines, each dish being matched with a suggested wine. The atmosphere is relaxed and stylish, whether inside by the fire in winter or outdoors enjoying a breathtaking garden area in summer.
Website: Pegasus Bay • Ph: +64 3 314 6869
Black Estate is well worth making the effort to find. Cool minimalism is the order of the day here, nicely laid back and hitting a very stylish note. The walls are painted black (of course) and the tables and chairs are reminiscent of those from your school days. The food at Black Estate is organic, free range and seasonal, so the menu changes frequently. The little serving table in the dining area is unique and perfectly simple. Family owned and run, expect excellent, warm and welcoming service and some great wines.
Website: Black Estate • Ph: +64 3 314 6085
Pukeko Junction has established itself as a small desintation in its own right with a wine shop, arts and craft and a great country cafe serving excellent breakfasts and lunches.
Website: Pukeko Junction • Ph: +64 3 314 8834
