FOOD If you’re planning a night out in Nelson City, there is so much to explore, and here I’ve attempted to capture just a taste of the goodness on offer. This is by no means an extensive list but few would accuse me of being malnourished and therefore I feel a pretty good judge of some “must do” Nelson eateries! New Asia This is one of Nelson’s best kept secrets - don’t be fooled by the fairly predictable sloppy smorgasbord that occupies the front window - sitting behind the curtain is one of the best Chinese restaurants I’ve ever tried. Park up with a Jasmine tea because you’ll need some time with this menu - it’s packed with authentic Chinese dishes ranging from pork hock to peking duck. A few must do’s include the prawn dumplings, sichuan spicy chicken and the beef in chilli broth. I’m salivating just getting these words down. If you’re stopping by for lunch, there are few better ways to enjoy an hour away from the hustle and bustle than with a heavenly chicken noodle soup (be sure to ask for chilli oil to give it that kick). You can BYO to this restaurant so your best bet is to get a group of friends together, book a table with a lazy Susan and bring some decent wine in for the occasion.
Arden
Lisa and Logan have it sussed with Arden, a humble feature on the Nelson dining scene, which is captured by a relaxed and easy going atmosphere.
NELSON EATS:
A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO
EATERIES IN NELSON CITY Words: Johny O’Donnell.
Nelson’s hospitality scene has come a long way in recent years and thankfully so - Te Tauihu is home to some of the country’s best fresh produce and it’s only fitting that we showcase the best of that on the stuff we plate up right here at home for locals and visitors alike. 58
The owners of this wee gem returned to Nelson after a decade in Melbourne and you can see their experience there has certainly influenced the establishment they have today. These guys are fussy about their food and drink they have one of the best wine lists in town and each one of them is hand selected by the team. The best part? To the untrained amongst us, most of the brands are barely recognisable and yet I’ve discovered many of what have become my favourite wines through the recommendations of their team. There is a lot to love about this place, but to highlight a few; they have a cocktail list that packs enough punch to change the course of an evening, they serve the freshest oysters in town, they have a ‘Feed Me Sunday’ option which is unreal value and all the crockery you eat off is handmade by the owner herself! (cont’d) A nightcap at Kismet is the perfect way to top off an evening in Nelson.
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