Beyond the Eggs Bene, Here's Where to Get Your Brunch Fix in Wānaka

With plenty of beautiful fit-outs, premium roasted coffee and health- and earth-conscious brunch places, you’re sure to find one that suits you.
Words by: Ashlyn Oswalt
Photography by: Nancy Zhou & Anna Briggs
Wānaka’s best brunch spots are dotted around the town, but they all have one thing in common: fuelling your next adventure. Whether that’s soaking in lakeside views, coffee shop hopping, or skiing down a mountain, Wānaka has what you need to start your day.
Crumb Bakehouse
28 Helwick Street, Wānaka
Crumb Bakehouse is affectionately referred to as the atelier little sister of Scroggin and locals are thrilled that owner Lucy Conway has opened up another post to share her pastry prowess. Now you can absolutely have a brunch full of delectable pastries from the cabinet, the sticky pecan cinnamon bun is particularly heavenly. Or you can go the route of the brioche toasts or toasties with a range of toppings and fillings available, they'll set you up to tackle whatever the rest of your day holds.
Dripping Bowl
82 Anderson Rd, Wānaka
For something bright, nourishing and a little bit tropical, make a stop at Dripping Bowl. This humble food truck serves smoothie bowls that are as wholesome as they are refreshing, made with organic and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. With three different flavours to choose from and all coming with delicious toppings like crunchy granola and freeze-dried raspberries, this is brunch on the go at it's finest.
Curbside Coffee & Bagels
48 Brownston St, Wānaka
If your ideal brunch leans casual, quick and seriously satisfying, Curbside Coffee & Bagels is a must. Their filled hand-rolled bagels, are substantial and come with a generous amount inside each one. It's just what you need to start your day off on the right note or help recover from a big night, the night before. There's plenty of caffeine on hand too to complete your brunch offering.
Scroggin
71 Ardmore St, Wānaka
‘Gather, feast, stay awhile’ is Scroggin’s tagline, and we couldn’t think of a slogan more suitable for this Wānaka brunch favourite. The airy, Scandinavian-inspired space is perfect for all seasons, featuring a cosy fire to warm winter hands and big, open A-frame windows to take in the lake and township views. If you’re just after a coffee, try their cold brew option roasted by Wolf Coffee (roasted close by in Arrowtown), to start your day. For brunch, there’s a wide array of options for all dietary preferences, from GF blueberry lemon cheesecake waffles to a not so classic eggs benedict that will satisfy hunger pains around the clock
Federal Diner
47 Helwick St, Wānaka
A beloved spot in Wānaka’s centre, Federal Diner dishes up breakfast favourites that feature organic eggs, free-range meats and their Wānaka-famous scones. Snag a seat inside and take in the funky, eclectic decor, or check out the sun-drenched courtyard, both perfect backdrops to sip Emporio coffee and examine the extensive menu. You wouldn’t be the first person to like this place so much you make a reservation for dinner, too.
Neat Wānaka Places
Ground Up

A brewery and taproom in one, this local favourite continues to grow and impress.
Black Peak Gelato

With the cheery motto ‘handcrafted happiness,’ Black Peak makes sure gelato treats are nothing short of exceptional.
Rubys Cinema and Bar

Appreciative of the time when going to the pictures was a real experience, Rubys plays arthouse films as well as the latest blockbusters in its cosy and plush interior.
Edgewater

Fitting seamlessly into the southern shoreline of Lake Wānaka, Edgewater is a classic, understated resort that proves working with the landscape is always the most elegant...
Sofi

Showcasing the best of Wānaka from its perch on Ardmore Street, Sofi is a Mediterranean dream near the shores of the lake.









