FOOD & WINE BLOG
Best places to wine and dine in Napier/Hawkes Bay
Welcome to food and wine country – if you’re looking for things to do in Hawkes Bay, exploring our wealth of world class wineries, cafes, and restaurants is high on the list. Here at Fairley Motor Lodge we are located in the middle of everything from historic wineries (making wine famous the world over) to vibrant cafes. Each establishment takes advantage of the local produce and amazing growing climate of the area, with stunning results. See our list below for our recommendations, and Bon Appetit!
Mister D in Napier is sleek and cool, a bit rock and roll, created by two local couples. You can order food using fresh local produce, from the cabinet or the kitchen whether you’re after breakfast, lunch or dinner (the big breakfast or the duck risotto come well recommended). Mister D’s is famous for its donuts, made fresh to order – these hot delicacies are injected with filling of your choice (e.g. custard, chocolate, Manuka vodka jelly). Delish.
Embrace your inner art deco muse and go all out at the Emporium Eatery and Bar, or the Emporium Lounge, inside the Masonic Hotel. Think crushed velvets and vibrant silk brocades in gold and turquoise, plus art deco paraphernalia adding to the atmosphere. They do really good cocktails and beautiful meals.
Mission Estate Winery and Church Road
Mission Estate Winery is New Zealand’s oldest winery, it’s a must to visit these parklike grounds, vineyard, manicured gardens and underground barrel room. You’ll get a sense of the long history of the place with gorgeous photos throughout the winery while you do a tasting with the knowledgeable, passionate staff. Afterwards, go for a meal at the restaurant where the chef does a great job with both taste and portion size.
Church Road Winery is just a minute’s drive down the road and is a chance to visit another historic winery which is on par with Mission Estate in terms of quality of experience. And a great spot for a quiet rosé in the park-like grounds out the back. On summer Sundays you will often find local musicians playing live to help you get your groove on.
For something extra special, world class Craggy Range is an award-winning experience. Born in 1993 to be a family legacy – the owners newly it built from the ground up, in a great spot with Te Mata Peak rising up behind it. Craggy Range consists of a vineyard, winery, accommodation and restaurant. The restaurant onsite is sophisticated yet warm and cosy, and the food is award-winning (with great wine matching too of course by knowledgeable, friendly sommeliers) – some say they’ve had their best meal at this place!
For a wine tasting session with true experts that are passionate about the craft of winemaking, you can’t go past Clearview Estate. Paired with one of the excellent platters, it’s not a bad way to while away an hour or two! This is a friendly, family-operated working winery, so it’s authentic and beautifully rustic without any ostentatiousness. You can sit indoors or outdoors next to the vineyards.
Three Doors Up
Three Doors Up is a must visit restaurant in Ahuriri. It is a highly-regarded local gem, with relaxed atmosphere, great service and even better food. An honest, wholesome menu made with the best and freshest local ingredients. Hop into the 4th Door Lounge Bar next door for a drink in the quirky courtyard.
The Urban Winery Ahuriri
The Urban Winery Ahuriri is home to Tony Bish Wines and a beautiful cellar door & wine bar. They offer an excellent selection of many other unique Hawke’s Bay wines to complement the Tony Bish range. A great spot for tastings, wine and craft beer by the glass or bottle, retail sales and tasty tapas & platters! They often have live music gigs and other things going on too.
PAK Asian Kitchen
If dumplings and classic Pinoy dishes with a twist are up your alley, then you’re sure to enjoy PAK (Philippine Asian Kitchen). Match the great food with some superb boutique beers and a good wine list, and the friendly staff will make you feel right at home. You can stroll down as it’s just down the road from Fairley.
We hope you have some stellar dining experiences during your stay. Of course, you’re always welcome to bring back takeout or fresh produce to prepare in your own suite here at Fairley Motor Lodge.
