Black Barn Bistro

Right from the beginning, it was obvious that the warm, north-facing slopes, the stunning outlook and the close proximity to the village of Havelock North meant that Black Barn had to be as much of a destination as it was going to be a vineyard. Fast forward 20 years, it is the same two local family owners, adopting the exact same philosophy as they set out with. Black Barn may be an award-winning vineyard, but it’s also a place people love visiting, grapes aside. 

Black Barn is all about the experience of the visit, whether that’s sampling the wines at the cellar door, a memorable meal at the Bistro, an outdoor concert in the beautifully tiered amphitheatre or perusing the weekly summer Growers’ Market. And if you don’t want to leave, you can stay the weekend (or longer!) at one of the 17 luxury accommodation retreats. 

Having reopened after a devastating fire that occurred in early 2022, the Bistro lies at the very heart of the Black Barn experience. Chef Regnar Christensen is passionate about the produce that Hawke’s Bay growers and producers bring to the table and the ever-changing menu reflects this, simple and delicious winning out over frills and fuss every time. Everything from the sourdough to the butters, pickles, chutneys and preserves are made by hand, in-house. The stunning wood-fired grill never sleeps and has almost as much say on the flavours as Chef Regnar himself. 

Restaurant Manager Santiago Burgos may run a very tight ship, but the magic is that visitors would never know. The restaurant itself is light, contemporary, generous in scale and a place where you feel comfortable and at home. The result is a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere that is attentive without being formal, where you just want to linger a little longer. 

Black Barn’s philosophy and the vision that drives everything in the business is to be 'the experts at giving people a good time.’ Nowhere is this vision more alive than when you’re relaxing with good friends and having a meal in the Bistro.