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

Barista behind counter and customer sitting at table at Crumb Bakehouse.

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

Cafes key icon.

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

Cafes key icon.

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

Cafes key icon.

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

Cafes key icon.

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

Big Fig

A flatlay of plates on a table with four people gathered around at Big Fig in Wānaka.
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Operating by the motto ‘slow food served fast’, Big Fig dishes up meals with a Middle Eastern twist.

Edgewater

Hotel building exterior with the pond in the foreground at Edgewater Hotel.
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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...

Perriam

Folded knitwear on wooden shelves and mannequins accessorised with hats and woven shoulder bags.
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Perriam is a brand designed by long-time local Christina Perriam and is the perfect combination of high country stations and beautiful fashion.

Alice Herald

Two hands holding a beautiful pink diamond ring.
Place Wānaka
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Couture is a word most often associated with high-end fashion, but down Wānaka’s sleek laneway, The Precinct, you will find a window displaying Alice Herald’s...