Considering it’s a small town, there is a reasonable variety of Methven restaurants and bars to choose from. Most restaurants and bars are located in the heart of Methven, but there are also some situated within accommodation establishments in the back streets of town. Methven is not party-central, but the pubs and a few of the bars still provide reasonable après and nightlife.

Methven Restaurants

The Dubliner sounds like it could just have stodgy Irish food, but this is definitely not the case. In addition to pub-style fare such as pizzas, The Dubliner has some fabulous beef and lamb dishes, and other gourmet creations. The open fireplace really adds to the cosy ambience during winter and the décor depicts the Irish nature of the pub. There’s even a confessional in case you’ve had a particularly sinful day out on the slopes.

Ski Time Restaurant and Bar is located in one of the backstreets of Methven (Racecourse Ave), but the short walk is worth it if you are a meat-lover. “The Chop” is famous for the size of the chunk of quality meat that you’re expected to digest. Ski Time restaurant caters well to those with a hearty appetite and the wine list is fabulous. This Methven restaurant caters particularly well to carnivores.

For lighter fare, the Japanese restaurant Aqua next to Methven Heli-ski is well worth a visit. Aqua is a small restaurant only seating about 20 (so it’s worth booking), and the ambience gives it the feel of a traditional Japanese ramen bar. The restaurant doesn’t accept credit cards which aligns to the Japanese tradition of being a cash dominated society. The only thing indicating that it isn’t in Japan is the incredibly English-ized menu. The vegetarian dumplings (similar to gyoza) are a must. Take-away is also available.

The Green Parrot Restaurant and Bar (formerly Steel-Worx) is another option for dinner. They serve fairly standard NZ cuisine.

Shackleton’s Restaurant is located within the Brinkley Resort complex (43 Barkers Rd). Don’t be fooled by the resort which provides moderately priced motel-style accommodation. The restaurant isn’t quite fine dining, but it’s much more upscale than what you’d expect for a “motel”. This Methven restaurant provides a great all-round dining experience in a relaxed setting. The menu is diverse and the wines are impressive too.

For pub-style food, the Blue Pub in particular is very popular for meals which are appropriately priced. They have pub grub as well as appetisers and main meals.

[AdListings collection="New Zealand" category="Methven" subcategory="Nightlife Restaurants"]

Methven Cafes - Daytime Fare

Methven has a handful of cafes for daytime fare or to grab your morning coffee fix and breakfast on the way to the ski fields.

Café 131 is open for breakfast and lunch, and the polished timber leadlight windows and wood-fired stove make this an enjoyable setting. The basic meals include all-day breakfasts and home-baked goods such as quiches, pies, muffins and soup. You certainly won’t blow the budget dining here. 

Primo Café (38 McMillan St) is a very quirky café that demonstrates eccentricity at its best. It’s a cross between a café and a bric a brac/op shop. Sit at one of the retro tables where your food will be served on old crockery, and use one of the souvenir teaspoons from their extensive collection. Hunt for old treasures or buy one of their hand knitted teapot cozies that adorn the wall. The trash ‘n’ treasure is all very amusing (if not reminiscent of a bit of a hoarding disorder), but the main attraction is really the fantastic coffee and the many homemade treats for breakfast, lunch or nibble time.

Next door is the Arabica Café which is also OK for daytime dining.

Or you’ll find beautiful décor at the Topp Country Café which proudly pays homage to the Topp Twins who are comedians who don’t mind taking the piss when it comes to the local male farming culture.

Other Methven Dining Options

For super-budget meals, there are a couple of fast food joints for take-away meals such as fish and chips.

Methven Bars & Nightlife

The Dubliner has a small bar that sometimes has lively après and an early evening crowd. It’s often frequented by guides and guests from Methven Heliski who have après-ski bevies whilst high-fiving about their awesome day out heli skiing. This is a must-do (the heli skiing as well as the bar!).

Ski Time also has a small bar that can be a popular yet mellow place for après.

The Brown Pub in the centre of town opposite the Blue Pub has a main bar with annoying pokie machines. The fireside bar is more upmarket with leather couches in front of the fire so it is aptly named, but unfortunately you can still hear the pokies. The fireside bar spills into the café/formal dining area which is very aesthetically pleasing, and serves good pub fare.

The Green Parrot bar is a favourite amongst the locals.

[AdListings collection="New Zealand" category="Methven" subcategory="Nightlife Bars"]