Eat your way around Manawatū

We’ve found some incredible restaurants for you to try in the Manawatū region. Whether you’re from the area or visiting, check out our recommendations for a taste-bud trip around the globe like no other.

Photo: Thanks to Nero

Nero

Multi-award-winning fine-dining restaurant Nero has been strong on the restaurant front for years. Aimed to please everyone who dines with them, Nero features contemporary New Zealand cuisine with delectable fusion dishes.

A true part of the Palmerston North scene, owners Scott and Yvette Kennedy curated their menu around the palette of their diners. An incredible mouth-watering menu is available for lunch through to the evening, with succulent meat and vegetarian options, entrees, desserts, and a delightful drink selection. With many featured dishes becoming classics among their diners, you’ll surely taste a carefully crafted meal full of heart and soul. 

Winning an array of awards, including Manawatū Restaurant of the Year in 2017, as well as Head Chef (and owner) being named Platinum Ambassador Chef for Beef & Lamb New Zealand, gives reassurance that you are tasting the finest New Zealand produce from one of the best across the country.

With an incredible menu and an award-winning reputation, stop by Nero next time you’re in the area for an excellent dining experience.

Photo: Thanks to Arranged Marriage

Arranged Marriage

Embodying the story of a people embracing their newfound homeland, Arranged Marriage is a delightful taste of Southern India and will surely please your palette.

Weaving together the local traditions of New Zealand and the birthplaces of its owners, Sree and Jacob, the carefully chosen interior will welcome you right into Southern Indian culture with a Kiwi twist.

Their menu consists of a vast array of authentic Southern Indian dishes, with lunch and mains available, as well as an extensive selection of sides and traditional Indian dishes; you won’t be short of choice.

With a commitment to providing their guests with an authentic Southern Indian dining experience at a truly affordable price, make sure you add Arranged Marriage to your list of next restaurants to try.

32B The Square, Palmerston North Central
06 351 6300
arrangedmarriage.co.nz 
Instagram: @ArrangedMarriagePN
Facebook: @ArrangedMarriagePN

Photo: Thanks for Beaver and Bear

Beaver and Bear

Originating from a love for Canadian cuisine and wanting to introduce the taste of North America to New Zealand, Beaver and Bear started as a food truck in 2019 and has evolved into a much-loved restaurant in the heart of Palmerston North.

Focusing on chicken wings and poutine in their early days, they now have a menu suited for all. Whether you’re after brunch, dinner or drinks after work, Beaver and Bear have an option for you. 

Smaller sharing plates and big plates alike, as well as burgers, drinks, and your South American-twist brunch dishes, topped with their classic chicken wings and poutine, all contribute to a menu that’s mouth-watering and ready to delve into.

Stunning indoor and outdoor seating areas make this restaurant suited for year-round dining and private functions, and with hospitality as a foundation of their space, they are committed to providing you with an experience you’ll remember.

For a taste of North America right here in New Zealand, make sure you visit Beaver and Bear next time you’re in central Palmerston North.

3 Campbell Street, Palmerston North Central
06 260 2124
beaverandbear.co.nz 
Instagram: @beaverandbearnz
Facebook: @beaverandbearnz

 
Photo: Thanks to First Table

Navajo Steakhouse

Described as a traditional steakhouse with a modern twist, Navajo Steakhouse will captivate you with its perfectly cooked menu.

Meat and seafood sharing platters as well as entrees, mains, desserts and kids options, this incredible menu makes for a great night out for the whole family.

Proudly prioritising preservation, marination, and brazing of their meat and only using the finest cuts, your dish will be cooked to perfection with the help of traditional cooking techniques and their Sous Vide.

Located in the heart of the city, just walking distance from The Square, add this restaurant to your list to try for a memorable meat experience like no other.

22-26 Fitzherbert Avenue, Palmerston North Central
06 358 7679
navajosteakhouse.co.nz
Instagram: @navajosteakhouse
Facebook: @navajosteakhouse

Photo: Thanks to Shake Out

Honourable Mention: Shake Out

Shake Out is a Kiwi-born and locally owned burger joint serving delicious burgers, sides and shakes.

Designed to eat in, pick up or takeaway in one hand, grabbing a Shake Out meal will have you sorted, no matter the rush of the day.

A selection of mouth-watering burgers is what they’re most known for. Try adding cheesy fries, a pickle-in-a-cup or a sundae, and you have for yourself a classic burger meal like no other! Try their range of shakes if you’re after something a sweet treat; with seasonal flavours as well as your classics, they will not disappoint.

Vegetarian-friendly and highly delicious, make sure you pop by a Shake Out next time you’re on Main Street!

Shop 2/199 Main Street, Takaro
06 355 0122
shakeout.co 
Instagram: @shakeoutnz
Facebook: @shakeoutpalmerstonnorth


Within the stunning Manawatū region lies an array of incredible restaurants. No matter the occasion, fancy or casual, they have something for you. And with gas flowing well into the future, you’ll be able to enjoy superb restaurant experiences for years to come.