Hawker House

Imagine a slice of bustling, fragrant Asia that has found its home in the heart of the cozy city of Nelson. This is Hawker House—a vibrant and modern restaurant inspired by the legendary hawker markets of Singapore and Malaysia. It's a place where street food is elevated to a fine culinary art while remaining approachable and incredibly delicious.

Here, New Zealand meets the East: head chef Ricky Day creates bold fusion compositions using the freshest seafood, famous local lamb, and vegetables grown on the owners' own farm. The menu brings together the culinary traditions of China, Japan, and Southeast Asia, offering guests rich flavors and unique ingredient combinations.

The interior is divided into several zones, allowing you to choose an atmosphere to suit your mood: whether it's the lively The Chef's Table, where you can watch the magic of cooking unfold, or a more secluded dining room. Hawker House (also known as Harry's Hawker House & Bar) is deservedly considered one of the best restaurants in the region, attracting gourmets with its impeccable service and focus on sustainable produce.

To book a table or for more information, you can use the following contact details. It is recommended to reserve in advance, especially if you plan to visit in the evening or want to sit at the chef's table.

A visit to Hawker House is, above all, an exciting gastronomic journey. Guests are invited to try a variety of signature street food dishes: from delicate dumplings and spicy salads to exquisite seafood and meat delicacies served with original sweet and sour sauces. Every dish here is a balance of textures and aromas.

Special attention should be paid to the bar menu. Start your evening with a signature cocktail inspired by the atmosphere of old Shanghai or Singapore, where fruity notes harmoniously blend with exotic spices. For wine lovers, there is an extensive wine list featuring the best examples from Nelson and international favorites.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose different ways to enjoy your time. For those who want to be at the center of the action, the Chef's Table overlooking the open kitchen is the perfect choice. If you're planning a romantic evening or a meeting with friends, the cozy areas in the main hall provide the necessary comfort. The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner, offering guests impeccable service and a truly lively atmosphere.

Hawker House is conveniently located in the heart of the business district at 296 Trafalgar Street. Thanks to its central location, it's just a 5–15 minute walk from most city center hotels or the main bus station.

If you're coming from Nelson Airport, a taxi or rental car ride will take about 15–20 minutes. For those using private transport, street parking is available nearby, though spaces may be limited during peak hours.

The city center is quite compact and pedestrian-friendly, so a walk to the restaurant along lively Trafalgar Street, with its shops and galleries, is a pleasant addition to the evening. Local taxi services or Uber are also always available.

The concept of Hawker House is based on the personal story of its creators, Matt and Tania Buttery. Inspired by the vibrant culture and authentic flavors of Southeast Asian street markets during their travels, they decided to bring this atmosphere to New Zealand, carefully adapting it to local traditions.

The owners pay special attention to the quality and origin of their products. A significant portion of the vegetables and herbs used in the kitchen are grown on Matt's own farm, ensuring their freshness and sustainability. This farm-to-table approach, combined with the skill of head chef Ricky Day, allowed the establishment to quickly gain recognition among locals and tourists alike.

Today, the restaurant is rightfully considered one of the best gastronomic projects in the region, holding top positions in ratings based on guest reviews. The project's success is confirmed by the prestigious Qualmark quality seal, which recognizes not only high service standards but also a commitment to sustainable development and responsible business practices.

To fully enjoy the culinary delights of Hawker House, you should set aside 1.5 to 2.5 hours for your visit. If you stop by for a quick lunch on a weekday, you can easily finish within an hour, enjoying a couple of vibrant appetizers and a main course.

An evening visit suggests a more relaxed pace. We recommend allowing at least two hours to try the signature cocktails, enjoy the leisurely progression of Asian fusion dishes, and finish dinner with an original dessert. If you manage to book a seat at the Chef's Table, time will fly by as you watch the chefs' virtuoso work.

Hawker House restaurant operates on a convenient schedule, allowing guests to stop by for either an early dinner or a full mid-week lunch. Please note that the establishment is closed on Sundays.

Opening Hours:
• Monday and Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM (dinner only);
• Wednesday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (lunch and dinner);
• Sunday: Closed.

As the venue is very popular, it is recommended to check the latest information and availability on the restaurant's official website before your visit.

Its downtown location makes the restaurant an excellent starting point or conclusion to a walk through the region's key sites. Exploring the surroundings will help you better feel the atmosphere of this cozy corner of the country.