Where to Eat in Dunedin: A Local's Guide
One thing is for sure - you’ll certainly never go hungry here in Dunedin. The hardest part is deciding what to have! As locals, we know the lay of the land when it comes to the best eateries in Dunedin, so we've popped together a complete guide to help your decision-making process.
Tasty Takeaways
Within a five-minute walk from our Dunedin motel, you’ll find all the big names: McDonald’s, KFC, Taco Bell, Hell Pizza, BurgerFuel, Domino’s, Pizza Hut, Subway, Burger Plant, plus local favourites like Chinese takeaways and classic fish & chips. These are all familiar and easy meals and offer convenience.
Sit-Down Meals Nearby
If you’d prefer to relax over a meal and make more of an occasion around it, these excellent options are close by (within a short stroll):
- The Baaa Bar – A welcoming spot for a hearty pub meal. Don’t miss their famous Wednesday Steak Night.
- The Maharajas – Authentic, flavourful Indian cuisine.
- Huzur Kebabs – Great for a casual bite; the chicken or falafel kebab is a favourite.
- Thai Land – Fresh, flavour-packed Thai dishes with plenty of variety.
A Taste of Dunedin Beyond the Corner
Take a 15-minute stroll down George Street to the surrounds of the Octagon, Dunedin’s vibrant heart, where even more dining experiences await:
- Best Café – A true Dunedin institution, serving hungry locals and visitors since 1932. Step inside and you’re greeted with retro Kiwi charm. Formica tables, classic booths, and a nostalgic atmosphere that hasn’t changed much in decades. Their fish & chips are legendary, cooked to order and wrapped in paper the old-fashioned way. Pair it with a side of Bluff oysters in season for the ultimate southern seafood experience.
- Prohibition Steakhouse – Meat lovers, this one’s for you. With a speakeasy-inspired atmosphere, Prohibition Steakhouse is all about big flavours and hearty portions. Their premium cuts are sourced locally and cooked just the way you like them, whether it’s a tender eye fillet or a sizzling ribeye. The menu also includes sides and sauces that elevate each dish — think creamy garlic mushrooms or whisky peppercorn sauce. Pair your steak with a fine New Zealand red for a truly indulgent evening.
- Tokyo House – Known for its lively teppanyaki tables, Tokyo House brings both flavour and theatre to your dining experience. Watch skilled chefs grill your meal right in front of you, flipping prawns, slicing steak, and tossing vegetables with flair. The menu covers Japanese favourites from sushi and sashimi to warming bowls of miso soup, making it a great spot for families, groups, or anyone who enjoys dinner with a show.
- The Craic – If you’re after a warm, friendly atmosphere, look no further than The Craic. This cosy Irish pub is popular with locals for its hearty meals and excellent drinks list. Tuck into comfort food classics like bangers and mash, Irish stew, or a perfectly poured Guinness pie. The Craic also boasts one of the best selections of whiskies in town, alongside local craft beers and wines — making it the perfect place to linger on a chilly Dunedin evening.
- Paasha – For authentic Turkish cuisine, Paasha delivers flavour, colour, and generosity. All dishes are Halal, with something to suit every palate. Their kebabs, pide, and grilled meats are cooked over charcoal for a smoky, authentic taste, while the mezze platters are perfect for sharing. Save room for baklava and strong Turkish coffee to finish. You won’t regret it.
- Vendura – A restaurant that brings together the best of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours. With a menu inspired by Iran, Greece, Turkey, and beyond. Vendura offers both familiar and adventurous dishes. From lamb kofta and spanakopita to saffron-infused rice and fresh mezze, everything is prepared with vibrant spices and fresh herbs. The stylish setting makes it ideal for both casual dining and a special night out.
Whether you’re craving seafood steeped in local tradition, a sizzling steak, or the flavours of the Mediterranean, the Octagon offers a dining experience for every taste — all within a short walk from Bella Vista Dunedin.
Dining with a Difference
Looking for a dining experience that’s more than just a meal? Dunedin delivers with iconic breweries and a casino that pairs history, atmosphere, and flavour:
- Speight’s Brewery – Just a five-minute walk past the Octagon, Speight’s is one of Dunedin’s most famous landmarks. The red-brick building dates back to 1876, and a guided 60-minute tour will take you through its fascinating history, traditional brewing methods, and award-winning ales. Finish with a tasting session before heading to the Speight’s Ale House, where hearty Southern fare is served in generous portions. Think slow-cooked lamb shanks, seafood chowder, or their legendary beer-battered fish & chips — all best enjoyed with a pint of Speight’s Old Dark or Gold Medal Ale. This is a true Dunedin experience, blending local history with great Kiwi hospitality.
- Emerson’s Brewery – Founded in 1992, Emerson’s has become a Dunedin icon, loved for its craft beers and welcoming atmosphere. Just a 20-minute walk from Bella Vista (with plenty of parking if you prefer to drive), it’s the perfect spot to spend an afternoon or evening. The light-filled taproom, outdoor beer garden, and lively vibe make it a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Their kitchen serves up delicious modern gastropub fare — from gourmet burgers to wood-fired pizzas — designed to complement the beers. Take a behind-the-scenes brewery tour for an up-close look at the full brewing and packaging process, then enjoy a guided tasting of Emerson’s signature brews like Bookbinder, Pilsner, or 1812 Pale Ale.
- Grand Casino – For something elegant and refined, the Grand Casino offers a dining experience wrapped in history. Housed in Dunedin’s stunning Heritage 1-listed Grand Hotel building, the casino greets you with a sweeping grand staircase, ornate ceilings, and Victorian architecture that transports you to another era. The on-site restaurant serves contemporary New Zealand cuisine, with seasonal menus showcasing local produce — think South Island salmon, Canterbury lamb, and decadent desserts. After dinner, you can soak in the vibrant casino atmosphere or simply enjoy the grandeur of the historic building. Best of all, the courtesy bus will return you to your accommodation, making your evening seamless and stress-free.
Food with a View - Out on the Otago Peninsula
A trip to Dunedin isn’t complete without exploring the Otago Peninsula, renowned for its wildlife, scenery, and history. And while you’re there, you can combine sightseeing with unforgettable dining:
- Glenfalloch – Just 10 minutes from the city centre, Glenfalloch sits within a historic homestead and gardens first established in the 1870s. The name means “hidden valley” in Gaelic, and it lives up to its charm with lush gardens, winding pathways, and spectacular harbour views. Dining here is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. Seasonal menus highlight fresh, locally sourced produce, with dishes inspired by both New Zealand tradition and modern cuisine. The setting is perfect for a romantic dinner, a family outing, or a quiet lunch surrounded by 150 years of history and natural beauty.
- Larnach Castle – About 20 minutes further along the Peninsula, you’ll find New Zealand’s only castle, built in 1871 by entrepreneur and politician William Larnach. This iconic estate offers visitors a unique chance to step back in time. Explore the grand ballroom, towers, and gardens before indulging in a dining experience like no other. Guests can book Victorian High Tea, complete with tiered stands of scones, sandwiches, and delicate cakes, served in elegant surroundings with sweeping views of the Otago Harbour. For something extra special, Larnach also hosts gala dinners and themed events in the historic ballroom — a truly memorable way to dine inside one of the country’s most fascinating heritage landmarks.
Whether you’re after fast food, a pub classic, fine dining, or something international, Dunedin has it all — and Bella Vista Dunedin puts you right at the heart of it. Plus, while you’re out enjoying the city’s food scene, we’ll take care of your pets.
Book your stay with us today and let Bella Vista Dunedin be your base for exploring Dunedin’s incredible food culture and beyond.