Sat out on a very comfy chair. Chicken Ceaser salad and a cold bottle of Ned rose. Staff are lovely. Good bar.basket of blankets available if it gets cool. What more do you need.
Overview
Salt Bar & Restaurant, located at 240 Forbury Road, St Clair, Dunedin 9012, New Zealand, offers a laid-back yet refined dining experience that truly captures the essence of the local food scene. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this spot has quickly become a favorite among food lovers for its quality, atmosphere, and menu variety.
From the moment you step inside, you can feel the warm, welcoming vibe of the restaurant. The decor combines modern and rustic elements, creating an inviting space that perfectly matches the menu offerings. The spacious interior and casual yet chic ambiance make it a fantastic place for a night out with friends or a more intimate dining experience with loved ones. There's also outdoor seating available, perfect for enjoying a meal while taking in the fresh Dunedin air.
The menu at Salt Bar & Restaurant is a delightful reflection of New Zealand's rich culinary heritage, offering a mix of locally sourced seafood, fresh produce, and comforting classics with a contemporary twist. A standout feature of their menu is the emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every dish is packed with flavor and vibrant colors. One dish that has consistently received rave reviews is their crispy skin salmon, which is perfectly paired with seasonal vegetables and a delicious sauce that complements the fish's delicate flavor.
Another favorite among diners is their range of steaks, cooked to perfection and served with mouthwatering sides like creamy mashed potatoes or crispy fries. For those looking for something lighter, their salads are crisp, refreshing, and make use of the best local greens. You can’t go wrong with the Salt Bar & Restaurant's take on classic New Zealand cuisine, which features options like lamb, venison, and the freshest fish of the day.
The drink menu is equally impressive. Featuring a well-curated selection of local wines, craft beers, and cocktails, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a glass of fine wine to pair with your meal or a refreshing cocktail to kick off your evening, the bar staff at Salt Bar & Restaurant know how to craft drinks that perfectly complement the flavors of the food.
What really sets Salt Bar & Restaurant apart from other places in Dunedin, though, is the service. The staff are attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. It’s clear that they take pride in ensuring that every customer has a memorable dining experience. For many repeat visitors, this level of care and attention to detail is a major draw. Whether you’re enjoying a meal on a quiet weekday or visiting during the bustling weekend rush, the service never falters.
Customer reviews also highlight the consistency of both the food and the service. Many patrons rave about the quality of the meals, noting how they always leave satisfied. One recent customer shared how they were blown away by the perfect sear on their steak and the balance of flavors in their dish. Another praised the welcoming and attentive nature of the staff, making them feel like valued guests throughout their visit. It’s this combination of delicious food, great drinks, and exceptional service that has helped Salt Bar & Restaurant earn its place as a local favorite.
Located in St Clair, just a short drive from Dunedin's city center, this restaurant is conveniently situated for both locals and tourists looking to experience authentic New Zealand flavors. If you’re planning a visit to Dunedin and want to savor a meal in a cozy and vibrant setting, Salt Bar & Restaurant should be on your list.
For those interested in variety, Salt Bar & Restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring that all dietary needs are met without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re popping in for a casual lunch or enjoying a leisurely dinner, you’ll find the perfect meal to suit your taste. From hearty mains to lighter bites, there’s no shortage of options.
No matter the occasion, whether it’s a celebratory dinner, a casual outing, or just a place to enjoy a delicious meal with friends, Salt Bar & Restaurant is a top choice in Dunedin. With its exceptional food, welcoming ambiance, and fantastic service, it’s no wonder this spot has earned such a loyal following. If you’re in the area, be sure to check it out and see for yourself what makes this restaurant a standout in the local dining scene.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Fireplace ✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great tea selection ✓ Great wine list ✓ SportPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Late-night food ✓ Organic dishes ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Brunch reservations recommended ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
We went for lunch. The staff were very friendly and helpful with my gluten, dairy and egg free meal. Food was great too :)
Service and atmosphere were both great. Very good location as it is right next to the beach. Came here for lunch after sitting on the beach for a while. Was excited for the veggie burger as it was an Asian style with tofu. I was pretty disappointed with the burger though. The aioli was completely overpowering of all the other flavors on the burger. The menu said it had ginger on the burger but there was none or not enough for any of the flavor to come through. I tried my friend’s fries and the fries were good, but the ketchup was very sweet. Everyone I was with seemed happy with their meals, so good if you eat meat but not very good for vegetarians.
The food taking a very long time in between starter-mains-dessert. We ordered a starter to share but did not give us extra plates. Also sundae taking awhile to be served. The seafood chowder is not brilliant taste yet but worth the price. Stuff service is great. But food service literally slow
Corner cafe by the beach. Only ordered some coffees, standard coffees as you'd expect, nothing special. One napkin shared between two coffee cups. Service was good and fast. Had outdoor tables so you can enjoy some sun.