Nominations reflect ‘years of hard work’

A trio of Oamaru eateries have been named in a "must-visit" list of the nation’s best restaurants all vying for the title of Restaurant of the Year.

Well-known food magazine Cuisine has unveiled its much-anticipated Good Food Guide 2025, spotlighting more than 300 of New Zealand’s best dining destinations, including Oamaru-based restaurants, Cucina, Riverstone Kitchen and White Stone Cheese Deli & Diner.

"We’re thrilled about the Cuisine nomination," Whitestone Cheese Co, managing director Simon Berry said.

"It’s a wonderful accolade for our Deli & Diner team, especially since we’ve recently improved our breakfast and lunch menus. So, we’re very pleased to see that work recognised with this nomination.

"This is only our second year in operation and we’ve been nominated by Cuisine each year since we opened. This independent assessment truly shows that our offering is considered among the top hospitality establishments in the region.

"It’s a fantastic achievement for our entire team, who have all worked together to develop our new dish combinations, that highlight our full cheese range, served with the region’s wonderful produce."

Cucina co-owner Yanina Tacchini said the restaurant was "truly honoured and grateful" to be nominated again.

"It’s a recognition that reflects the years of hard work, passion, and dedication our entire team puts into Cucina every single day.

"It’s heartening to see our efforts acknowledged, especially during times when the narrative around our business hasn’t always reflected the full picture or the values we stand by.

"We remain focused on delivering excellence and staying true to who we are. Perhaps this nomination serves as a timely reminder that substance and integrity do, in fact, shine through."

The Cuisine Good Food Awards, will take place on August 18, and will be presented by American Express, where 20 category winners and over 95 hatted-restaurants will be announced including American Express Restaurant of the Year and Cuisine Chef of the Year.

"As always we are thrilled to release our list of the New Zealand restaurants that will be featured in our Cuisine Good Food Guide for 2025," Cuisine owner and editor Kelli Brett says.

"Despite the challenges across the hospitality industry we are seeing new openings and it’s exciting to see that many are embracing an elevated casual approach that showcases the flavours and hospitable culture of Aotearoa so well."