A Taste of Southland
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday 7AM – LATE
It is our philosophy to serve fresh, whole foods in our cafe that changes according to the season. Southland is the food basket of New Zealand— whether farmed like dairy, sheep and beef, grain, fruits and vegetables or harvested from the wild like our whitebait.
Most of our food products are sourced from local suppliers and when possible we try for the most organic/free range and fresh produce we can get.
Gluten free items are readily available, which you will find in our well stocked food cabinet. Most items on the main menu can be substituted for GF breads as all batters and sauces are made gluten free.
Paua Sandwich
Order from Tuatara Cafe on Uber Eats and enjoy our delicious meals delivered straight to your door!
Authentic Italian Pizzas loved by our locals
Our pizzas are loved by everyone who tries them. Big enough to share (if you’re feeling generous). Lovingly crafted by our Italian pizza chef Cesare, each piece is a delicious blend of flavour and tradition. Perfect for a cosy night in or a lively get-together. Come and see what all the fuss is about and taste the love in every slice!
Some of your favourites
Contact Us
FAQ
Where is the nearest free car park?
Please note there is no car parking at the Cafe. Parking in town is free from from 5pm to 8am the next day. Entrance to the Leven Street car park building is on Leven Street, right beside the Tuatara building. Parking is free for 90 minutes when you park on the top level and in the spaces marked with blue.
Do you do table service?
All meals and drinks are ordered at the counter and will be delivered to your table by our wait staff.
Do I need to make a booking?
Bookings are not essential but are recommended for groups of six or more and for weekend dining.
Do you have an outdoor smokers area?
Yes, we have a covered and heated outdoor courtyard.
Am I able to open a tab for a group function or meal?
Certainly! We can set up a tab for your event. We’ll securely hold your credit card in our cardholder for the duration and return it to you at the conclusion of your function.
Are children able to dine at your bar?
Yes, we are a family friendly restaurant.
Do you have wheelchair access to all areas of your bar/restaurant?
Yes, Tuatara offers excellent wheelchair accessibility. Our spacious layout ensures easy navigation throughout the venue.
Do you cater for Gluten free?
Yes, we can accommodate gluten-free requirements for most of our meals by substituting breads, wraps, or pizza bases with gluten-free alternatives.
Do you accommodate for Celiacs?
While we strive to cater to various dietary needs, we cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free environment due to shared workspaces.
Do you cater for Vegans/Vegetarians?
Yes, we offer a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options. Vegetarians can enjoy a variety of choices including raw slices, a delicious vegetarian pizza, and several daily menu items. For vegans, we provide raw slices, salad options, a vegan pizza, and a daily vegan soup.
Is any of your food organic?
Yes, we proudly serve organic coffee beans from Allpress, and all our eggs are free-range.
Do you hire the café out for private functions?
Yes, we offer several options for private functions without a venue hire fee, provided all food and beverages are purchased from us.
- For groups of 50-80, we offer a secluded area at the back of the café.
- The outdoor courtyard is available for private gatherings of 30 or more.
- For larger groups of 200 or more, we can allocate most of the café, though we may keep a small section open for takeaway orders depending on the day and time.
- Exclusive hire of the entire café is possible by arrangement. Please email office@tuataralodge.co.nz for details.
Am I able to bring my own birthday cake to our function?
Certainly! For groups of 20 or more, there is no charge for bringing your own cake. For smaller groups under 20, a $50 cake charge applies.
