Top 3 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Fiordland (Te Anau)

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka

25/08/2025

Stunning view of Milford Sound's scenic fjord with mountains and calm waters in New Zealand. — Esther Grosscurt, Pexels

Te Anau's drinking and bar scene complements its outdoor adventure focus, offering a selection of welcoming venues for guests to unwind and enjoy local hospitality after a day exploring the Fiordland National Park.

Entertainment and Music:

The music and entertainment scene in Te Anau is modest, complementing its role as a hub for outdoor and nature-focused activities rather than being a primary draw.

Live music is available on occasion at The Fat Duck Gastropub, typically on Saturday evenings during the summer months. Alternatively, The Ranch Bar & Grill provides live entertainment or DJ tunes on weekend evenings and features a 'Jam Night' for local musicians on Thursdays.

1. The Fat Duck Gastropub

Type: Gastropub and Restaurant

Stepping into The Fat Duck, one immediately feels the lively yet relaxed atmosphere of this award-winning establishment, celebrated as the Supreme Champion at the 2025 Estrella Damm Top 50 New Zealand Gastropubs Awards. The menu highlights local, seasonal ingredients, perfectly paired with a selection of New Zealand beers and wines. On many Saturday nights, live music adds to the vibrant ambiance, making it an excellent spot to unwind. With both inviting indoor seating and an outdoor area offering mountain views, it provides an ideal setting to reflect on the day's adventures.

Getting There: The Fat Duck Gastropub is centrally located within Te Anau's town centre, making it easily accessible by foot from most accommodations.

2. The Black Dog Bar / Fiordland Cinema

Type: Bar / Cinema Bar

The Black Dog Bar offers a stylish and cozy retreat, featuring an impressive selection of local New Zealand wines and beers, including unique Fiordland-branded options. The warmth from its inviting open fire creates a perfect atmosphere for a relaxed evening, whether enjoying a pre- or post-movie drink from the attached boutique cinema. A bar menu and evening dining options are also available on select nights, offering a refined yet comfortable experience.

Getting There: Located conveniently next to the Fiordland Cinema, The Black Dog Bar is situated centrally in Te Anau and is easily reachable on foot.

3. Redcliff Cafe & Bar

Type: Cafe & Bar / Restaurant

Housed within a charming early settler's cottage, the Redcliff Cafe & Bar exudes a cozy and intimate ambiance, adorned with local memorabilia that tells a story of the region. It is a well-regarded venue, known for its award-winning cuisine and a thoughtfully curated list of local and Central Otago wines. The bar provides a comfortable space to enjoy beverages, often enhanced by live music, and during warmer weather, the garden bar offers a pleasant outdoor setting.

Getting There: The Redcliff Cafe & Bar is found just off Te Anau's main street, adjacent to Lake Te Anau, making it within easy walking distance from the town centre.

Check out our other pages on Fiordland (Te Anau)

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