Journeys to The Mussel Inn: A Legend of New Zealand Hospitality

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It started over 30 years ago with a bare paddock and a vision; to create a space for family and friends to gather and for music to be played. Fast forward a few decades, and The Mussel Inn is one of New Zealand's most loved hospitality destinations. A pub, brewery and live music venue in Golden Bay on the way to the top of Te Waipounamu South Island.

The Wholemeal Café

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Arguably the town’s most recognisable eatery, The Wholemeal Café, is housed in the former Takaka Theatre that dates back to 1910.

The Historic Langford Store & Post Office

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Stepping into The Langford Store in Golden Bay is like stepping into a piece of historic Kiwiana, and immediately brings a smile to your face.

The Courthouse Café

The blue and white Courthouse Cafe building.
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It’s easy to see how The Courthouse Café got its name, housed as it is in Collingwood’s former courthouse.

Kiwi Spirit Distillery

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At Kiwi Spirit Distillery in Golden Bay, you’ll find craft gins, spirits and liqueurs made with local botanicals and more than a dash of good taste.

Bacca Bakery

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Flavour, nutrition, and affordability are the calling cards of Bacca Bakery, a two-person operation of love in Parapara.

The Dangerous Kitchen

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Despite its moniker, the only thing truly dangerous about The Dangerous Kitchen in Tākaka, is how tasty its food is.

Roots Bar

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Roots Bar in Tākaka absolutely lives up to its alliterative motto—“beats, beers, burgers, bands”— providing stacked...

Mussel Inn

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A staple for over thirty years in Golden Bay, The Mussel Inn is your go-to for wholesome food, delicious in-house brews, dance-worthy live music and possibly a roaming weka...

Tasteology

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The outside of the building is simple and understated in white and sage green, the inside overflows with colour.

Salvito's Pizza Bar

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Nelson has a long and significant Italian history, and one of the best ways this heritage shines through is in the city’s pizza scene.

Rimu Wine Bar

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For a casual-chic drinking experience in the heart of apple country, look no further than Māpua's Rimu Wine Bar.

Victus Coffee & Eatery

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If you’re looking for colourful, fresh food and top-notch coffee, then Victus Coffee & Eatery—which occupies a bright, inviting space in the heart of Whakatū...

The Neat Taste Trail of Nelson Tasman

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A journey of edible delights and surprises for your tastebuds.

Little Dove Cafe

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Wholesome food and aromatic pastries inspired by the Levant—the eastern Mediterranean region encompassing Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and parts of Syria—might not be...

Rabbit Island Coffee Co.

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Located in a chic, airy storefront a few doors down from 

The Moutere Inn

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The oldest pub functioning in its original building in Aotearoa and proud of it, The Moutere Inn is a definite destination in this part of Te Waipounamu.

Deville

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Deville is quite possibly Nelson’s best-kept hospitality secret.

Taste the Tasman with Nelson's Artisan Makers, Bakers and Food Producers

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Nelson is humming with makers, bakers and producers. Meet some of them here.

TOAD Hall Café

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TOAD Hall Café in Motueka is one of those places you enter once by chance, and never pass up again.

Java Hut

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Keen to find that secret local’s coffee spot in Māpua? Make a stop at Java Hut on the main road into town.

The Smoking Barrel

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The Smoking Barrel is a bit of a Motueka institution. The family-owned and operated restaurant specialises in low & slow American style BBQ, statement burgers, and gourmet donuts.

Golden Bear Brewing Company

Outdoor seating area at Golden Bear Brewing Company, Māpua Tasman.
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Golden Bear Brewing Company opened its doors back in 2008 and quickly became a hub of great beer, honest food, and regular live music.

Arden + Porta Via

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Arden is a culinary experience you shouldn’t leave Nelson without enjoying.

Urban Oyster Bar & Eatery

Prepping oysters in the kitchen.
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The stars of the show, as the name suggests, are oysters.

Alberta's

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It’s hard to find a more picturesque spot for brunch than Alberta’s at Māpua Wharf.

The Free House

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Place Nelson Tasman Editor's Pick
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Situated in an old church turned pub, The Free House is a true Nelson craft beer institution.

Sublime Roastery & Brew Bar

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A place to appreciate coffee in its purest form.

East St

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Place Nelson Tasman Editor's Pick
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A pioneer in plant-based fare.

Kismet Cocktail & Whiskey Bar

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Bespoke drinks and graceful service is what you can expect at Kismet.

Hawker House

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A celebration of South-East Asian street food and hawker markets.

Red Gallery & Café

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Sit amongst art while sipping a great cup of coffee.

Burger Culture

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You'll find delicious burgers, outrageously lush shakes, nostalgic tunes and good vibes here.

McCashin's Brewery

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Taproom, brewery and restaurant all under the same roof.

Hardy St Eatery

Customers dining at Hardy St Eatery.
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Celebrating honest food in all its glory is what Hardy St Eatery does best.

Bobby Franks

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Place Nelson Tasman Editor's Pick
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Bustling with locals on any given day.

The Boat Shed

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Come dine with sea at Boat Shed Café.