Father’s Day Guide: Picking the Right Restaurant for Dad’s Personality

Perched on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, Little Blackwood is a charming and sophisticated spot for cocktails and shared plates. Offering unmatched views of the serene lake and surrounding mountains, it will satisfy any nature-loving dad while ensuring he enjoys craft cocktails and curated cheese boards. Cosy up by the crackling fire, tap your feet to live music, and soak in the alpine views. 

Your dad is constantly dreaming of his next holiday or telling you stories of his travels. He loves to explore the world! Take him to Origine, where French cuisine seamlessly blends with a modern Kiwi twist. The interior of the restaurant oozes a light and airy atmosphere, where sunlight pours in from two floor-ceiling windows, and curiously carved chandeliers drape from overhead. Your Dad will be taken on a journey through the rich history of French culinary techniques and the essence of New Zealand's finest ingredients.

If your dad likes trying new things, bold flavours and cultural cuisine, be sure to take him to Nanam for his Father’s Day dinner. In Auckland’s seaside Takapuna suburb, Nanam exudes unique flavours with its harmonious fusion of Filipino and Spanish dishes, where tradition and modern flair blend together. For adventurous dads, they should try the taco pao and the sizzling pork belly for a flavour bomb they won’t forget. Namnam has a city buzz ambience that effortlessly combines warm hospitality for a wholesome and nourishing evening celebrating Dad.  

He spends his weekends with his hands in gloves, pruning the hedges, sweeping the driveway, or re-planting a beloved garden bed. The Old Vicarage is a sweet spot for his Father’s Day gift. The restaurant is situated in an old, charming heritage villa, and embraces its historical roots. Lounge on the sunny desk overlooking the gardens in this homely and inviting space, with a menu offering an elevated twist to pub favourites. 

For the dads of rock n’ roll and jazz, the ones who are always blasting music and finding any opportunity for a dance—this one is for them! Take dad to Christchurch’s famous jazz spot, where a casual dining experience quickly turns into boogying the night away. The menu features Southern USA-style comfort dishes, including fried chicken, ribs, and tortillas. With live jazz music every evening, Fat Eddies exudes a lively vibe that your music-loving dad will thoroughly enjoy! 

He spends his weekends out on the water, fishing, exploring, and simply enjoying the salty sea air. Take him to the Dockside Restaurant, nestled along Wellington’s sparkling waterfront. The Dockside is considered one of the largest over-water restaurants in the Southern Hemisphere and offers an alfresco dining option and sprawling views of the waterfront. Indulge in their signature house-dry-aged premium beef and sip on a crisp wine as you take in the boats bobbing in the harbour.

No fuss, no fancy — just Dad, a cold one, and a table at CBK Kaiapoi. This Father's Day, let him set the pace: brunch, lunch or dinner, whichever suits his mood. Point him at the Stonegrill for a steak he can cook to his own liking right at the table, or steer him toward a loaded Chicken Parma, a hearty Butcher's Breakfast, or the Beef Rump if he's after something simple and satisfying. Pair it with a pint off the craft tap list and there's nothing left to plan. Whoever your "dad" is this year — Dad, Grandad, Uncle, or the mate who's stepped up — bring him down to CBK, pull up a chair, and let the good times (and the kitchen) do the work.

Does your dad pride himself on his sense of style and sophistication? The Nightcar is a great dinner out for him! With its dark and masculine accents and moody vibes, The Nightcar is wrapped in style. Inspired by the French Concession of China, the modern Chinese menu, paying homage to the Yangtze River, delivers distinct flavours and dishes such as the pork belly with Yangchun noodles. Reminiscent of a luxurious train interior, The Nightcar is the perfect Father’s Day dinner for your stylish dad! 

Your dad loves being in the kitchen and enjoys trying restaurants that deliver immersion and flavour! Ramen Ramen by Tanoshi is perfect for food-lovers who enjoy tucking into a hearty and warming bowl of broth and noodles, where each bite delivers aromatics, umami-goodness, and even a bit of crunch. It’s a great place to end the day after hitting the slopes or exploring the gems of Queenstown, and even better for Father’s Day in NZ.