Top 4 Places to Eat in Aoraki / Mount Cook & Mackenzie Region (Mount Cook Village/Lake Tekapo)

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
This photo is of Mount Aoraki (Mt. Cook) & Mount Tasman reflecting over Lake Matheson (New Zealand). I took this photo, early morning, in November 2013 during a month-long trip to New Zealand. The reflection is a near-mirror image of the sky, mountains and trees.
Ryancoke2020, Wikimedia Commons

The dining landscape across Aoraki / Mount Cook and the Mackenzie Region provides functional and quality options for visitors, ranging from relaxed cafe settings to refined evening meals, often complemented by stunning alpine or lake vistas.

1. The Panorama Restaurant

Cuisine: Local New Zealand and international cuisine

Situated within The Hermitage Hotel in Mount Cook Village, this restaurant offers an exquisite dinner experience with a philosophy of using the freshest local ingredients to create seasonal menus rich in flavor and style. Guests can anticipate stunning alpine mountain vistas while dining. Reservations are highly recommended due to demand.

Price: NZD 50-80+ per main course

Getting There: Located within Mount Cook Village, it is easily accessible on foot from local accommodations.

2. Old Mountaineers' Cafe

Cuisine: Cafe fare, organic coffee, local food

This charming cafe, officially opened by Sir Edmund Hillary, provides a relaxed atmosphere for visitors in Mount Cook Village. It is known for its organic coffee, excellent food, and a selection of local beer and wine, all enjoyed with stunning views of Aoraki Mt. Cook. It comes highly recommended by travel guides.

Price: NZD 20-40 per main dish

Getting There: Found within Mount Cook Village, it is conveniently reachable by walking.

3. Kohan Japanese Restaurant

Cuisine: Authentic Japanese with a Kiwi twist

In Lake Tekapo, Kohan is a quaint establishment offering an authentic Japanese dining experience. It is highly regarded for its fresh sushi and sashimi, leveraging local salmon farms, alongside hearty ramen and teriyaki dishes. The restaurant features a cozy ambiance, warm service, and provides lake views from its windows.

Price: NZD 30-60 per person for a main course or selection

Getting There: Centrally located in Lake Tekapo township, it is within walking distance of most local accommodations.

4. TLV - The Lake View

Cuisine: Contemporary New Zealand cuisine

As one of Lake Tekapo's newer dining establishments, TLV offers a special experience with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The menu focuses on creative and authentic local flavors, featuring signature dishes such as Beetroot Cured Salmon and Venison Rack. A diverse cocktail menu is also available, making reservations advisable for this sought-after spot.

Price: NZD 45-75+ per main course

Getting There: Positioned to offer stunning lake views in Lake Tekapo, it is typically within walking distance from the main village area.

Check out our other pages on Aoraki / Mount Cook & Mackenzie Region (Mount Cook Village/Lake Tekapo)

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