Way out eats
The Mussel Inn by Neat Places
Although nowhere is too far, Nelson Tasman can feel like a big place - we have more than our fair share of hidden valleys, sneaky bays and long winding roads flanked by seemingly impenetrable bush.
Luckily for us, intrepid restaurant, café and eatery owners have come before us, magically appearing from what can feel like the middle of nowhere with epicurean eats and treats.
An institution for travellers and locals, The Mussel Inn is a watering hole for anyone in the bay looking for good food, great beer, in and outdoor dining and drinking, plus a packed long summer music programme of local and touring bands.
The food is unashamedly rustic – hearty plates of salad from the garden out back, steaks, pan-fried fish, goat ragu, an epic mussel chowder, and, of course, the must-have bowl of Sossys.
A summertime visit to Golden Bay is not complete without a stop at Toto’s Café & Pizzeria. Open on a weather-permitting basis, this gem is located on the hillside on the road to Tōtaranui Beach.
Expect delicious wood-fired pizzas in an off-grid environment, complete with stunning views of Wainui Bay and lawn games.
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Not surprisingly housed in the old school rooms at Pākawau and not necessarily off the beaten track as a long way down the road, the Old School Café has reliably served up a stacked menu for locals and travellers for many, many years.
There are plenty of tables, a pool table, and an alfresco garden out the back for good weather days. Menu favourites include steamed mushrooms, Asian pork belly with mash, and baby back ribs.
You can’t get any more ‘end of the road’ than this. Bainham is the last stop before the Heaphy Track. Luckily, The Historic Langford Store stands as a testament to our far-flung rural past and the commitment and sheer style of Surkita Langford (the great-granddaughter of the Store’s original owner) and her husband Will.
In addition to coffees, teas, scones, slices (and ice cream), the store is chock full of an eclectic mix of recycled vintage and retro treasures, walls of local art for sale, and Surkita’s famous bucket hats and aprons.
A few minutes to the Salisbury Falls, this is a destination worth seeking out.
