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For the first time in Aotearoa, Michelin visited, dined and judged our foodie scene, dropping New Zealand’s inaugural MICHELIN Guide in June 2026.
For our little lakeside town, this list proved what locals have known for years: this is a serious food destination, not just a pit stop between hikes.
Out of 110 restaurants named in the Guide across the whole country, only 14 walked away with a Star. Wānaka got one of them, as well as six restaurants named. For a place this size, tucked away in a remote corner of the world, that’s not a small thing, it’s recognition on the world-stage.
We’ve pulled together a list of the locals in the Guide, so you can make sure to include them in your next trip.
If you’ve eaten at Kika in the last few years, the Star is recognition of what you already knew. This is a restaurant that must be visited. Since opening in 2017, executive chef James Stapley has built Kika’s reputation on innovative, shareable flavours. Think Lake Ōhau Wagyu, so tender it barely needs a knife, melt-in-your-mouth moonfish crudo, and other distinctive flavours using local produce.
James views every meal at Kika as an opportunity — to reveal the region’s potential, to deepen connections with the community, and to prove that extraordinary food can flourish right here in the Southern Lakes.
The awarding of a MICHELIN Star is a sign of that ethos at play, showcasing the talent and produce of our rohe (region) to the world. Kika has always had that energy, the paperwork’s just caught up.
MICHELIN is not only about fine dining and fan-fare. Introduced in 1997 the Bib Gourmand recognises incredible food at good value. It has its own criteria, making it an award in its own right. The restaurants that earn this accolade are subject to the same rigorous inspections, with Wānaka picking up five of them.
Francesca brings well-travelled Italian to a cosy, welcoming setting. Known for big pours, an ever-changing seasonal menu, and polenta fries with truffle aioli that are worth the trip alone. Open daily for lunch, dinner, and a cheeky tipple or two, it’s the kind of place that fills up with regulars as much as visitors.
Muttonbird feels like a secret discovery, hidden upstairs in an alleyway. They’re famous for simple food with full flavour, set amongst a quirky collection of vintage items and mountain views. Each of the sharing plates are built around Otago produce, enjoyed to a soundtrack of 60s and 70s classics, and alongside a must-try Elderflower Negroni.
Treehouse is Wānaka’s best-kept secret hiding in Anderson Heights. Known for their curated atmosphere and expert drinks knowledge, it’s a place where you can let the afternoon turn into evening. Their sharing-plates menu is built around South Island seafood and game, with a “Trust the Chef” option for anyone who’d rather not choose.
Paloma Taqueria, James Stapley’s second name on this list, is on a simple mission: the best possible tacos, made with New Zealand ingredients. With authentic Mexican cocktails and every element made from scratch, it’s a place you’ll want to come back to.
Bombay Palace does some of the best Indian food in town from its perch looking over Lake Wānaka. Order the tandoori platter and a mango lassi, and don’t skip the garlic naan. The menu spans South India and Mumbai, with proper technique behind every plate.
Rounding out Wānaka’s list is Arc, named in the wider MICHELIN Selected list. Chefs James Stapley and Sam Cooper change the set menu monthly around whatever’s in season, sourced from local farmers, hunters and fishermen, and served in a space built from recycled native rimu and dried Otago wildflowers.
Usually it’s the mountains and lakes that bring visitors here. Increasingly, it’s the dinner table that convinces people to stay a little longer. Once you start planning, be sure to book ahead. Kika was already a tough table before the Star; now it’s the kind of booking you lock in before you’ve even sorted accommodation. Build in your plan for dining instead of squeezing it in between activities: for example Kika for the occasion, Francesa for a hearty meal after a big day outdoors, and Paloma when you’re ready for a big night out.
Start with our Eat & Drink guide or Wine Trail for more of the foodie scene, and Lodges & Accommodation for somewhere to stay between courses.
