About

Wharfside Restaurant and Bar is a partnership between two local families; people who love the community and are keen to share what it has to offer.  LJ and Shawn were the creators of the well-known bakery The Naked Bun and Sandra and David have many years experience in the seafood industry.  Between them they offer the finest food and service, in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, reflective of the coastal village of Mapua.

Wharfside strives to create a warm and friendly ambience, so whether you’re an international visitor, or a local, you will feel ‘at home’ here.

The menu at Wharfside is contemporary New Zealand cuisine.  Seafood starters such as seafood chowder and Golden Bay paddle crab and crayfish risotto, can be followed by beef fillet, venison cutlet, or perhaps the pan roasted fish appeals.  One of our delectable desserts like our popular honeycomb and white chocolate cheesecake, or chocolate nemesis made with raspberry creme brulee, can complete your dining experience.

Scrumptious salads such as calamari or chicken Caesar; and delicious asparagus, broad bean and goats cheese risotto as well as homemade soup dishes are available daily.  The children’s menu has tasty and healthy food sure to satisfy. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available.

Local ingredients are used, where possible, such as local, award winning Moutere Grove olive oil and O'Neils gourmet meats.  Local produce is complemented by other specialty foods such as Canterbury’s Rachel Scott’s artisan breads.

Wharfside’s wine list features a wonderful selection of wines with an emphasis on local and regional wines, to complement the finest seafood and most succulent meats.

At Wharfside we would love to host your special occasion and cater for private functions including Christmas parties, so please talk to us about your needs.  We will work with you to tailor a function that meets your budget.

Wharfside’s bar allows you to enjoy an outdoor pre-dinner drink in a magnificent location in the summer, and provides a cosy place in winter to sip your after dinner liqueur by the fire. Through the summer months we host live music, including jazz during Nelson’s summer festival.

If you are looking for a great gift see us for a gift voucher for that special friend.