The best vineyards to lunch at in Marlborough
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s renowned Marlborough wine region, Blenheim is your go to destination for wine tasting in NZ. The region is famed for its Sauvignon Blanc, but offers much more than just this variety. Marlborough is also NZ’s largest wine growing region, with over 130 wineries. So you have plenty of options for wine tasting, but alas not quite so many for lunching amongst the vines.
I love the opportunity to eat at a winery. I have always found the architecture of the buildings to have so much character, and of course, the settings and the views are just stunning. I’m sure nothing beats enjoying a glass of wine in the very setting it was grown in.
Sadly, there are actually few winery lunch options in Blenheim at the moment, with some of the vineyard restaurants still suffering the effects of covid on the industry.
Because of this, it is best to make a reservation if you’re intending on having lunch, as they often book out – especially on days when cruise ships are in port in Picton.
These are your best options – but keep reading for notes and tips on all of them.
Wither Hills
One of my favourite venues for lunch! The Wither Hills Winery and Restaurant exemplifies the perfect Marlborough setting. You have the option of eating inside, or outside in their sheltered courtyard area – all with stunning views.
The menu is short and sweet – but the dishes are beautifully created and simply delicious.
When visiting, make sure you wander downstairs and check out the cellar (the beautiful scent as you descend the stairs will have you swooning), and also head upstairs for incredible views.
Allan Scott Bistro
Another stunning setting, and another favourite for a vineyard dining experience. Head to Allan Scott Bistro if you want fresh local food, done well. There’s an enclosed courtyard to enjoy your food and wine in – again – just a beautiful venue.
Open 10-4 daily.
Cloudy Bay – Jack’s Raw Bar
Cloudy Bay I believe is the largest vineyard property in Blenheim. On a hot day, you can escape to a swing under a tree on their expansive lawn, or chill in a bean bag. Order a platter or in summer, enjoy lunch at Jack’s.
In summer, Jack’s Raw Bar opens for lunch. They specialise in fresh, raw, seasonal and local produce. All of the seating is outside, under large sun umbrellas.
Lunch service times change during the season, so definitely check and book ahead if possible.
Open Daily 10-4
Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen
If you really want to eat as close to the vines as possible, then Saint Clair is your spot. In fact, there are some dining options available amongst the vines.
I love that they really champion sourcing local produce, which is highlighted in their infamous Celebration of Marlborough Platter (for two).
Open: 10 – 5 in summer (11-4 in winter), Wednesday to Sunday
The Fancy Cow
Ok – full disclosure – the Fancy Cow is not really a vineyard restaurant. But they do share their space with the winemaker Ant Moore. Interestingly, they do also have a brewery on the premises, and they are a great place to go and enjoy lunch, with vineyard views for miles.
They have a very yummy Italian menu, full of all the classics.
Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday – Saturday from 12pm. Lunch only on Sunday.
I hope you’ve read enough to know that enjoying a vineyard lunch while you’re visiting Marlborough is definitely a great idea! The vineyard restaurants are not usually open for dinners, so you have to make the most of lunchtime.
And if you’re winery hopping doing tastings, then you’ll definitely need some food to soak up the alcohol.
Many of the other wineries do serve platters, so if you miss out on lunch, that’s always an option. As is taking your own lunch, and making a picnic of it amongst the vines at Yealands on the White Road.
Enjoy!
PS. If you’re staying with us at Picton Paradise Cottages, Marlborough Wine Tours will pick you up at our door, so no need to worry about driving.
