We’re truly spoilt for choice in Nelson when it comes to dining out. For a small city, the quality and diversity of our restaurant scene is exceptional — from award-winning fine dining and creative small plates to relaxed waterfront favourites.
At Pihopa Retreat, we’re passionate about supporting local, which is why we’ve chosen not to offer in-house dinners. Instead, we encourage our guests to experience the incredible culinary talent our region has to offer.
To make this seamless, we happily pre-book dinner reservations along with complimentary transfers for all our guests — saving the hassle and ensuring they don’t miss out. Many of Nelson’s most sought-after restaurants book out days in advance, especially during peak season, so having a table secured ahead of time means they can relax and enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Here are just a few of our favourite local dining spots — all proudly showcasing the best of Nelson’s produce, hospitality, and creativity:
Hopgood’s Restaurant
Located in the heart of the city, Hopgood’s is Nelson’s go-to for elevated, seasonal cuisine. Chef Kevin Hopgood’s award-winning menu celebrates local ingredients with refined techniques — a perfect spot for a long lunch or a special dinner. The wine list is exceptional, with plenty of local drops.
Harry’s Hawker House
Bold, bright, and full of flavour, Harry’s is where you go for Southeast Asian-inspired sharing plates. Expect dishes like bang bang cauliflower, bao buns, potstickers, and spicy roti. The vibe is fun, casual, and perfect for group dining or an upbeat date night.
Arden
This wine and tapas bar on Hardy Street is effortlessly cool. With inventive small plates and a top-tier wine list, Arden is a popular choice for modern dining with a European twist. Think miso-glazed veg, handmade gnocchi, or oysters — all designed for sharing.
The Boat Shed Café
Perched over the water with a spectacular view of the harbour, The Boat Shed is a longstanding local favourite. Their ‘Trust the Chef’ menu is a highlight — offering a relaxed fine-dining experience with a coastal, Kiwi flair.
Urban Eatery
Urban Eatery is lively and social, offering a modern menu that leans heavily into bold flavours and beautifully plated dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for tapas-style sharing, cocktails, or a generous main, it’s a fresh, vibrant spot to enjoy the evening.
Eight Plates
As the name suggests, Eight Plates focuses on a tight, seasonal menu of curated small plates, allowing you to experience a variety of flavours in one sitting. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and it’s perfect for foodies who love trying a bit of everything.
The Brick Eatery
Set slightly outside the centre, The Brick Eatery is a stylish, relaxed space offering creative brunches and dinners with a local twist. Their wood-fired oven dishes, modern NZ flavours, and strong coffee culture make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Whether guests are after a long, elegant dinner or a fun, flavoursome night out, Nelson’s food scene is full of surprises. With a focus on fresh produce, seasonal menus, and warm hospitality, they’re bound to find a favourite — or several. Let their tastebuds explore Nelson just as much as their feet do.
And when you book guests to stay with us at Pihopa Retreat, we’ll take care of the planning — all they have to do is enjoy.
Ngā mihi nui
The Pihopa Retreat Team