Eat, drink, shop
For breakfast and coffee
THE VINES VILLAGE CAFÉ 193 Rapaura Road, Blenheim vinesvillagecafe.co.nz
Sardines on toast, açaí bowls and buttermilk pancakes are just some of the delicious hunger-busting options at this lakeside café. The manicured lawns and big playground will keep the kids entertained, while adults will love kicking back in the sheltered outdoor dining area with a good cup of coffee (or glass of wine).
For lunch
HARVEST RESTAURANT
776 Rapaura Road, Rapaura harvestrestaurant.co.nz
Despite its sprawling area, Marlborough gets busy come lunchtime. Escape the crowds by booking a window table at Harvest Restaurant at The Marlborough Lodge (see Stay section, opposite). Overlooking the property’s gardens, it’s a serene spot where you can soak up the region’s laid-back charms. Chef Damian Oehlrich is at the helm, with a regional menu featuring dishes such as garlic-laced Wakanui beef tartare.
For dinner ARBOUR
36 Godfrey Road, Blenheim arbour.co.nz
New Zealand restaurateurs Liz Buttimore and Bradley Hornby spent six years running fine-dining establishments in Melbourne, Margaret River and on Lizard Island, collecting a number of hats during their Australian tenure. Now they’re back on home turf at this upmarket eatery where tables book out regularly (even on weeknights) and the menu changes almost every day. Opt for the six-course Eat Local menu or make a night of it with The Many, a procession of nine dishes. Both options can be paired with local wines.
For taking home
MAKANA CONFECTIONS
Corner of Rapaura and O’Dwyers roads, Blenheim makana.co.nz
This boutique chocolate factory and confectioner is a beloved institution in Marlborough. If you’re in town carrying a Makana Confections paper bag, locals will stop you to ask, “Did you try the macadamia butter toffee crunch?” But while these nutty chocolate-coated slabs seem to be the favourite, there’s so much more to try and buy: champagne truffles, citrus jelly squares, zesty fruit bark… even sugar-free chocolate snaps.