Top 6 Places to Eat in Marlborough (Picton/Blenheim)

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
View of Picton Harbour from the ferry, Marlborough Region, New Zealand
Krzysztof Golik, Wikimedia Commons

Marlborough's dining scene thrives on its fresh local produce and exceptional wines, offering diverse culinary experiences from upscale vineyard restaurants to relaxed casual eateries.

1. Arbour Restaurant

Cuisine: Modern New Zealand / Degustation

Dining at Arbour is an experience in sophisticated, innovative cuisine, showcasing the best of Marlborough's local and seasonal ingredients. I chose the seven-course tasting menu, which changes weekly, and found each dish meticulously prepared, offering delicate flavours. The ambiance is relaxed and welcoming, even with its fine-dining reputation. They also offer a superb wine list featuring local producers. Reservations are essential, especially for weekend dining.

Price: NZD 89+ per person for 4 courses (approx. USD 55+)

Getting There: Located approximately a 10-minute drive from Blenheim town centre, a taxi or private vehicle is recommended. Costs will vary.

2. Scotch Wine Bar & Wine Shop

Cuisine: Modern French / Sharing Plates

This wine bar offers a stylish yet comfortable setting in central Blenheim. I enjoyed the sharing plates, which featured fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with a 'clever casual bistro' approach. The tasting menu at $45 per person presented excellent value. Their impressive wine list, boasting over 500 options, perfectly complements the food. The atmosphere is generally buzzy, making it ideal for a relaxed dinner with friends or a partner. Booking ahead is advisable.

Price: NZD 45-80 per person for mains/tasting menu (approx. USD 28-50)

Getting There: Located in Blenheim town centre, it is easily walkable from most central accommodations.

3. Gramado's Restaurant & Bar

Cuisine: Brazilian

Gramado's offers a lively taste of Brazil in Blenheim, known for its authentic and fun hospitality. I found the hearty dishes, such as the feijoada and flaming prawns moqueca, to be full of flavour. The restaurant also provides gluten-free pão de queijo, which is a delightful must-try. This spot is a firm favourite among locals and is great for groups and families, with dietary requirements well catered for. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Price: NZD 30-60 per person for mains (approx. USD 19-38)

Getting There: Situated in Blenheim town centre, it is easily walkable from most central accommodations.

4. Saint Clair Family Estate Vineyard Kitchen

Cuisine: Modern New Zealand / Winery Dining

A lunch here amidst the vines is a highlight, offering a beautiful setting with a water feature. I experienced exceptional dishes, which were made with quality Marlborough produce. The menu often features delicious small plates, perfect for a relaxed meal paired with their award-winning wines. One can dine outdoors among the vines or by a cozy fire during winter, making it a wonderful experience for all visitors, especially wine lovers.

Price: NZD 30-70 per person for lunch (approx. USD 19-44)

Getting There: Located in the heart of the Marlborough wine region, a short drive from Blenheim. A taxi or private car is needed, which will incur additional costs.

5. Seumus' Irish Bar

Cuisine: Irish Pub Fare / Gastropub

Seumus' offers an authentic Irish pub experience right on Picton's waterfront. I enjoyed the buzzing atmosphere, often enhanced by live music, making it a great spot for a social evening. The menu features generous portions of traditional Irish meals and Kiwi favourites, like the highly recommended hot pot. They are also known for their good selection of gluten-free and dairy-free options. Service is consistently friendly and attentive, and the prices are fair for the portion sizes.

Price: NZD 20-40 per person for mains (approx. USD 12-25)

Getting There: Conveniently located near the Picton waterfront, it is within walking distance of most central Picton accommodations.

6. Le Cafe

Cuisine: Cafe / Seafood

Le Cafe is a long-standing popular spot on Picton's seashore, offering picturesque views of the Marlborough Sounds and harbour. I found the atmosphere casual and friendly, perfect for a relaxed meal. Their fresh green-lipped mussels, served in white wine, are a local specialty that I recommend trying, and the fresh fish dishes are always a reliable choice.

Price: NZD 25-50 per person for mains (approx. USD 15-30)

Getting There: Located directly on the Picton waterfront, it is easily walkable from most central Picton accommodations.

Check out our other pages on Marlborough (Picton/Blenheim)

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