Garston Hotel and Cafe

The manager’s response to our pumpkin soup stood out most. It was much spicier than we expected, and when we left some, they apologized, offered extra coconut milk to tone it down, and then refunded the soup. That was seriously thoughtful service. We’d stopped for lunch on the road and were pleasantly surprised by the burgers and baked goods too.

The couches and toys made it easy to sit and eat with the kids, and the whole stop turned into a lovely experience. The pie was generously filled, with pastry done just right, and the portions were big. I’m fussy about food, but this was the best meal of our NZ trip so far. The coffee was the best I’ve tasted here too, since coffee in NZ is often pretty bitter. Coffee and pie together came to only $10, the best price we’ve found.

We’ve altered our plans for the trip back just so we can stop here again. The counter team were outstanding, and the coffee has been the best I’ve had on this South Island trip so far. Such a neat little piece of history.

We were a group of 7 who came for dinner and drinks, but were turned away because, as we were told, “It's not busy enough at this time of the year.” We accepted that and started to leave. Then we noticed 8 people inside being served and looking at menus. At another establishment, a friendly chap asked whether there was a group inside drinking that had ignored us. There was. It seemed like the people running this place cared more about themselves than their patrons. Head a bit further south to Athol for much better hospitality.