Best Cafe
Cuisine Good Food Guide Selection
Our verdict
Operating since 1935 this much-loved institution with new owners is highly regarded for superb fish and chips, battered oysters, fishy burgers, pāua patties, coleslaw and the ubiquitous bread and butter. Graduates returning to the city regard it as an essential nostalgic stop for the same food they ate through their university years. Look for the café’s popular live music nights.
Pearl is the En Primeur Club membership app — saves, bookings, and concierge access live there. Same editors, same standards.
- Address
- Best Cafe, 30, Stuart Street, City Rise, Dunedin Central, Dunedin, Dunedin City, Otago, 9016, New Zealand
- Phone
- 03 477 8059
- Hours
- Mon ClosedTue–Sat 11:30 AM–8 PMSun Closed
- Website
- bestcafe.co.nz
- Directions
- Get directions
- Booking
- Book on ResDiary

The menu
What to order
- Blue Cod in Light Batter
- Battered Bluff Oysters
- Paua Patties
- Fish Finger Sandwiches
- Fish and Chips
Operating since 1935 this much-loved institution with new owners is highly regarded for superb fish and chips, battered oysters, fishy burgers, pāua patties, coleslaw and the ubiquitous bread and butter. Graduates returning to the city regard it as an essential nostalgic stop for the same food they ate through their university years. Look for the café’s popular live music nights.
Recognition history
Dated appearances from independent guides and award organizations, with the underlying list record or original source where available.
Cuisine Good Food Guide Selection
Cuisine Good Food Guide
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- Classic
- Well Known
- Cozy
- Lively
- Casual Hangout
- Family
- Group Dining
- Private Event
- Celebration
- Historic Building
- Live Music
- Private Dining
- Standalone
- Local Sourcing
- Sustainable Seafood
- A La Carte
- Set Menu
Current opening hours
- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday
- 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Thursday
- 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Friday
- 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Saturday
- 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Sunday
- Closed
Hours can change for holidays and private events. Last verified .
Classic mid-century retro fish-and-chip shop aesthetic with vintage formica tables, nostalgic 1950s decor, and a casual, welcoming neighborhood feel.










