The First Timer’s Guide To Dining In Invercargill
We’ve rounded up the seven best places to eat in Invercargill, no matter the occasion.
Words by: Caitlin Brown
Photography by: Nancy Zhou
You’d be doing yourself a disservice not to explore all of the hidden gems within Invercargill’s local food scene. From casual fare to steak and seafood, this Southern city leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to a great experience dining out. From the flavours of Mexico to a relaxed tapas bar and bistro, Invercargill manages to strike the perfect balance between great food and ambience without becoming fussy or over-the-top.
Emberz
35 East Road, Ascot, Invercargill
The dining room's traditional, elegant vibe invites you to linger over a long dinner at Emberz, with menu options made from fresh ingredients grown in the restaurant’s on-site gardens located just a hop, skip and jump away. The chargrilled steaks are a major hit and taste even better when paired with their thoughtfully chosen “Wine of the Week”.
Amigo's Mexican Grill
10 Dee Street, Invercargill
A Mexican food establishment set in the heart of Invercargill, you can’t go wrong with the soft tacos in this cheerful, buzzy spot. From classic flavours like Carne Asada (charred ribeye, salsa verde, fried onion) to inventive options like Calamar y Papas (fried squid, garlic potato, pickled carrot), everyone will find something they love here. If you’re in the right place at the right time, be sure to stop by on Taco Tuesday to pay just $5 a piece for any of their mouth watering taco options.
Level One
20 Kelvin Street, Invercargill
Tucked away above Kelvin Street, Level One has been a bar for nearly 55 years. This classic spot feels just swanky enough for a special occasion but still plenty casual if you’re just looking for a great meal after work. Top picks include the steak, blue cod, salmon and venison. The bar hosts a solid selection of craft beer, plenty of gins and boutique tonics, and a cocktail menu that might make you hang around a little longer than expected.
Tuatara Café & Bar
30-32 Dee Street, Invercargill
A downtown Invercargill craft beer bar, brewery and pizzeria, Tuatara Café & Bar is the best place to come for a hot slice and a cool brew. The products they don’t make themselves are sourced from suppliers who share their sustainable food ethics, and they offer everything from a classic Margherita to an inventive dessert pizza with chocolate sauce, berries, bananas, mascarpone and marshmallows.
Ziffs
143 Dunns Road, Invercargill
Ziffs is the go-to spot just outside of the city, this casual eatery feels like a true escape thanks to an inviting wraparound porch surrounded by lush greenery. The Crispy Chicken Salad is the most popular item on the menu, but it’s far from your average, boring salad. This delightful lunch and dinner main features crispy panko chicken strips, belly bacon, brie, avocado, cashews & tomato on salad greens with aioli.
Buster Crabb
326 Dee Street, Avenal, Invercargill
This local spot serves up hearty fare, plenty of drink options and a dimly lit atmosphere. Buster Crabb's menu, which doubles as a vintage newspaper and a history lesson, offers starter favourites like the seafood tasting tray and charred breads and dips before moving onto the star of the show, chargrilled steaks ordered to the temperature of your liking
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Small Prophet & Co
Pop into this studio to check out their art, upholstering and refurbishment work alongside other local wares.
The Good Studio
A gallery and emporium full of exquisite one-off pieces, gifts and more made by local and New Zealand artists.
Industry
At the only café in Invercargill’s northwest corner, expect to nd delicious baked goods all made in house, hearty breakfast and lunch dishes and plenty of options for dietary restrictions.
Toasted
Serving up New York Style bagels that are made with hand-picked ingredients, this casual breakfast and lunch stop is a tried-and-true favourite amongst students and local office workers.
Black Shag Boutique Café
Head to Black Shag in Invercargill for the perfect trifecta of coffee, food and service.
