Just an hour north of Wellington lies the captivating Kapiti Coast, boasting a plethora of delightful eateries, artisanal producers, and charming food trucks. While Paekakariki, Paraparaumu, Raumati, and Waikanae each offer their own culinary gems, let's not overlook Ōtaki & Te Horo, which hold their own as hidden culinary treasures on the Kapiti Coast.
Casual Dining & Cafes
Embark on a culinary journey along the main highway and discover The Blackhood Bakes Artisan Bakery, (their mushroom pie is a standout recommendation). Indulge in chocolatey delights at Riverstone Cafe with their delicious brownie, or savor the mouthwatering toasted cheese and ham croissants at Cafe Lane Ōtaki. Reds Cafe tantalizes taste buds with their delectable food from the cabinet or menu, while River Cottage Cafe offers a serene garden setting to enjoy their scrumptious bakes. For a hearty evening meal reminiscent of home, the Railway Hotel's steak night promises a satisfying experience. The Family Hotel offer a lunch menu with all your favourites.
Local favorites like Nga Pura Pura and Cafe Sixty 6 in the Ōtaki township offer delicious options for breakfast and lunch, with Nga Pura Pura's scrambled eggs being particularly noteworthy and Cafe 66 smashing out the Pork Chops. Sushi enthusiasts will delight in the offerings at Arigato Mum's Sushi. Additionally, Ōtaki Beach beckons with Te Chur-ch Cafe, where art and cuisine intertwine seamlessly, providing a unique dining experience curated by local artist Hori.
The Bus Stop Cafe at Te Horo invites patrons to enjoy a cup of coffee paired with engaging conversation, embodying the warmth and charm of this quaint coastal community. Also at Te Horo is, is Pure bliss the new cafe at Hyde Park well worth a visit.
Local Producers
Ōtaki and Te Horo is home to a myriad of talented growers and food producers, including Totara Tunnel Olives, Kapiti Olive Oils, Kapiti Kandy Co, Elemental Cider, CoralTree Organic and Kapiti Artisan Bakehouse. There is also Te Horo Harvest, with spreads, chutneys and Jams. There are fresh fruit and veg suppliers with The Homegrown Company, Dreamcatcher Coop, GreenBeanz, Crooked Vege Otaki and Penray Gardens. You'll also find several egg-cellent producers: Shevington Farm Free Range Eggs, and River Bank Poultry. And for farm fresh milk Faith Farm Fresh is a must stop.
Bakeries
Pie aficionados will find solace at Main Street Bakery, where Scottie the pieman creates pastries and pies, served alongside comforting coffee. Venture to Salut for an array of innovative pie flavors, from lime and pepper hoki to jalapeño and bacon relish brisket with cheese. Meanwhile, Oz's Bread Shop and Dice tantalize taste buds with their array of delectable treats, including cream-filled donuts, yummy, filled rolls and savory pies. Make sure you don't miss Dice's famous Boil Up.
Restaurants
At Abelso Cuisine, located within the Ōtaki RSA, diners can expect flavorful offerings ranging from succulent steaks to mouthwatering lamb shanks. Curry Town in the township entices with its aromatic Indian dishes, catering to a variety of palates. A quick drive down the road to Te Horo and you'll find the Wine Maker's Daughter. Perfect for a delicious lunch, with a great vegan menu available. (Also available for venue hire)
Fish n Chips & Takeaways
Seafood lovers will find satisfaction at SunLong, Ōtaki Seafoods, and Kapiti Fisheries, while Chinese cuisine aficionados can indulge in the offerings at SunLong, The Nest, T&G Chinese Restaurant, and Asia Takeaways. Additionally, chain favorites like Dominos, Pizzaland, and Subway offer convenient options for a quick bite.
craft Market
The Ōtaki Craft market showcases a diverse range of food vendors, including P&S Kai Kart and Sweet K's Kusina, known for their delectable hangi and Filipino street food, respectively. Meanwhile, Anthea's Kitchen and The Olde Beach Bakery offer freshly baked delights, with Hodoo tempting taste buds with their irresistible Korean Waffles.
Food Trucks
Midweek finds the old main highway adorned with a vibrant array of food trucks, offering local favorites such as Dutchy's, Hodoo, Zaaffran - A Taste of Morocco, and Cherry Wood Food Truck.
DRINKS
You can grab a drink at the Ōtaki RSA, Railway Hotel, Family Hotel and the Telegraph Hotel, know affectionately as 'The Tele'. All with there own historical stories embedded into Ōtaki's rich history.
Te Horo Delights
Venture into Te Horo and experience culinary excellence at Ruth Pretty catering, a destination revered by food enthusiasts worldwide.
Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through, Ōtaki offers a culinary experience that satisfies the senses and nourishes the soul, making it a destination worth savoring.