Scenic & Savoury: Murihiku Southland’s Best Eateries with a View

Murihiku Southland is a feast for the senses. From rugged coastlines to snowcapped mountains, the region's natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for restaurants serving incredible food with unforgettable views. If you're seeking a food experience that is a feast for your taste buds and your eyes, these fabulous spots will surely deliver.

Pio Pio Restaurant, Milford Sound

We are starting strong with Pio Pio Restaurant in Piopiotahi Milford Sound. Few places on Earth can rival the awe-inspiring beauty of Milford Sound, and dining at Pio Pio Restaurant elevates the experience even further. Nestled in the renowned Milford Sound Lodge, this restaurant provides a unique dining experience, surrounded by the majestic Fiordland mountains in a World Heritage Location. The menu celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with Fiordland Wild Venison and Fiordland Crayfish as firm favourites.

360, Invercargill

For a taste of urban Southland with a twist, 360 delivers sweeping views of Waihōpai Invercargill from its elevated vantage point. This modern, top-floor bar takes you above the city, offering a unique perspective while you savour its carefully curated drinks menu. Think classic Espresso Martinis, Liquid Ambrosia and even special "Birthday Cake cocktails" paired with a fabulous tapas menu.
 

Oyster Cove, Bluff

Oyster Cove in Bluff offers a truly unique dining experience at what feels like the very edge of the world. Overlooking the wild and windswept Foveaux Strait, this spot is a must for kaimoana seafood lovers. From fresh Bluff oysters to hearty seafood chowder, the menu is as authentic as it gets. Sit by the window to watch the strait's ever-changing waves—it is as close as you can get to the ocean without stepping into it.

The Redcliff Café, Te Anau

Known for its cosy, rustic ambience, The Redcliff Café offers more than just great food. Situated in Te Anau, the best base for Te Rua-o-te-moko Fiordland, the café boasts outdoor seating where you can soak in views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains. Pair this with their famed Fiordland venison or salmon; you've got the perfect recipe for a relaxed, scenic evening.
 

The Fat Duck, Te Anau

Another Te Anau treasure, The Fat Duck, brings a touch of refined elegance to your Southland dining journey. Its outdoor seating offers a tranquil escape with views of the distant Kepler Mountains. The menu focuses on modern Kiwi cuisine, with standout dishes like the twice-cooked pork belly or braised lamb shoulder. Enjoy your meal as you breathe in the crisp mountain air.
 

Brunel Peaks Café and Bar, Blackmount

Set against the majestic Takitimu Mountains backdrop, Brunel Peaks Café and Bar provides stunning views of the peaks that shape the landscape. The Cafe is known for its fresh, hearty meals and exceptional coffee; it is the ideal place to recharge while enjoying the rugged mountain scenery.
 

Riverton Beachhouse, Riverton

Aparima Riverton, known as the "Riviera of the South," is"home to the Riverton Beachhouse, a café that pairs delicious meals with stunning ocean views. Its prime location overlooking the waves makes it an ideal spot to enjoy fresh, locally inspired dishes, whether you're going for brunch or a leisurely lunch.

Niagara Falls Café, Niagara

Tucked in the beautiful scenery of The Catlins, Niagara Falls Café offers a unique mix of the cosy charm and rustic countryside views. Enjoy hearty homemade dishes, fresh baking, and coffee while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere of this hidden gem.
 

South Sea Hotel, Oban

For a dining experience with a touch of island life, head to the South Sea Hotel on Rakiura Stewart Island. Overlooking Oban’s picturesque bay, this iconic spot offers everything from fresh kaimoana seafood to hearty pub classics. Its relaxed vibe and unbeatable waterfront views make it a favourite for locals and visitors alike. If you’re there on a Sunday, be sure to join their popular weekly pub quiz night!

Those suggestions are the ultimate dine-with-a-view experiences, perfect for a relaxing meal surrounded by natural beauty. But if you’re looking to spice things up and add a sense of adventure to your dining plans, why not try something a little different? Check out these exciting options and take your dining experience to the next level.
 

Hump Ridge Track

The Hump Ridge Track, New Zealand's newest Great Walk, offers a unique 3-day loop through sub-alpine tops and along the rugged southern Te Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland coastline. But this isn’t your typical Great Walk. On Hump Ridge, you can indulge in luxuries like hot showers, comfy beds, and fully stocked lodges where you can purchase wine, beer, cider, soft drinks, and snacks. For dinner, treat yourself to the iconic Tuatapere sausages served with peas, mash, and gravy—all while soaking in spectacular views that make your hard-earned meal even more satisfying!
 

Canapés on a Cruise, Milford Sound

Not much of a walker but still want to soak in stunning scenery? No problem! How about an evening champagne cruise? Step aboard Faith with Fiordland Historic Cruises, a 19.7-meter (64.6-foot) wooden motor sailer steeped in history, built in Scotland in 1935. Having served in World War II and hosted Sir Winston Churchill, Faith has sailed the globe and now calls Lake Te Anau in Fiordland National Park home. As you cruise this breathtaking World Heritage Area, you’ll be treated to drinks and canapés while enjoying panoramic views of the sun setting behind Fiordland’s majestic peaks. Savour delicious bites paired with spectacular scenery—there’s no other vessel quite like her in New Zealand, making this an unforgettable way to experience the region.
 

Breakfast in Milford Sound

Embark on an unforgettable overnight cruise in Piopiotahi Milford Sound, where every meal comes with a view beyond imagination. Enjoy an exceptional dinner featuring freshly caught produce as you gaze at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters of this natural wonder. As the sun sets, the dramatic landscape transforms into a tranquil haven, making every bite even more memorable. In the morning, wake up to breathtaking vistas and savour a hearty breakfast while surrounded by the Sound’s awe-inspiring beauty. This is the ultimate way to pair incredible food with one of the world’s most stunning backdrops.
 

Afternoon Tea in Doubtful Sound

For an even more remote and peaceful experience, go on a cruise to Pātea Doubtful Sound, a place whose name, "place of silence," truly lives up to its meaning. As you immerse yourself in the serenity of this pristine wilderness, you’ll also have the opportunity to savour exceptional food while taking in some of the most stunning views imaginable. The onboard chef will ensure you’re well taken care of, serving freshly baked afternoon tea, beautifully presented local platters, a gourmet buffet dinner, and a selection of hot and continental breakfast choices to start your day. It’s the perfect combination of natural beauty and culinary delight, making every moment unforgettable.

Whether you're planning a special trip or just passing through, make sure to add these scenic dining destinations to your Murihiku Southland itinerary. For those venturing off the beaten path, the region is dotted with charming roadside eateries and cafés that will satisfy your taste buds and wanderlust. In Murihiku Southland, a great meal is only half the story—the surroundings complete the experience.