Visiting Hanmer Springs is not just about the stunning scenery and relaxing hot pools—it’s also about savoring delicious cuisine. At No.31, you can dive into the vibrant world of European flavors. Here are ten must-try dishes that will take your taste buds on a journey across Europe.
Why European Cuisine is Worth Exploring
European cuisine encapsulates a rich heritage of flavors and traditions. Each country presents its unique taste, influenced by local ingredients and cultural history. From hearty Italian pastas to delicate French pastries, the variety is simply extraordinary. What makes European cuisine stand out is its remarkable balance of flavors; it’s a blend of indulgence and simplicity, perfection and authenticity.
Moreover, European dishes celebrate the seasons, bringing fresh, local ingredients to your table. This not only ensures that each meal is vibrant and full of character but also resonates with the philosophy of ‘farm to fork.’ Dining at No.31 means you get to experience these seasonal delights, introducing your palate to a fabulous array of tastes that inspire feelings of warmth and comfort.
In essence, exploring European cuisine at No.31 isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing a culture that celebrates life through food. And in a world where cuisines often blend and mix, enjoying the distinct flavors of Europe can feel like a unique journey. Each dish tells a story, enriched by the memories associated with flavors and meals shared among friends and family.
1. Paua in Cream & Chilli
There’s something quietly luxurious about New Zealand paua when handled with care. Ours is gently cooked in a creamy herb sauce with a whisper of chilli, offering a rich, velvety texture that lingers. Crisp leeks and house-made focaccia complete the plate, inviting you to dip, savour, and pause between each bite.
2. Seafood Chowder
Our take on this winter staple is anything but ordinary. A silky saffron velouté carries a bounty of the ocean—prawns, mussels, calamari, and clams—steaming and fragrant in every spoonful. Finished with golden saffron croutons, this dish brings the warmth of the coast straight to your table.
3. Smoked Canterbury Duck Breast
This dish is a conversation between texture and taste. Slices of duck breast, smoked in-house, are plated with a tangy plum gastrique, puffed wild rice, spiced onion chutney and crispy kale. It’s sweet, smoky, and earthy all at once—layered, balanced, and utterly memorable.
4. Pumpkin & Sage Arancini
Golden and crisp, these risotto balls are filled with almond-cream cheese and infused with the earthy perfume of sage. Paired with a vivid red pepper coulis, salsa verde and pickled broccoli, the dish is vibrant in both colour and spirit—a standout choice for vegetarians and anyone who loves depth without heaviness.
5. GM Beef Eye Fillet
There are few things as satisfying as a perfectly cooked eye fillet, and this one is no exception. Served over creamy truffle mash with caramelised onions, seasonal greens, chorizo crumb and a drizzle of black garlic butter, it delivers the kind of rich, robust flavour that winter evenings are made for.
6. Fillet of Pork with Mustard Cream
Manuka-smoked bacon wraps a tender pork fillet, its richness offset by crisp pommes gratin and the soft bite of Jerusalem artichokes. A velvety mustard cream brings the plate together, blending rustic heart with restaurant polish—comfort food redefined.
7. Wild Fiordland Venison
Sourced from the wilds of Fiordland, this venison is paired with silky kumara purée, grilled portobello, and broccolini. A cranberry and green peppercorn sauce adds brightness, making this dish feel like an alpine escape on a plate—elegant yet grounded.
8. Vegan Meatballs with Beetroot Cream
This dish is a testament to how creative plant-based cuisine can be. Rich vegan meatballs rest on hummus and beetroot cream cheese, layered with shaved fennel and sprinkled with dukkah. It’s nourishing, playful and packed with personality—a true showstopper even among meat dishes.
9. Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée
Crack through the caramelised top and discover a silky custard beneath, subtly infused with vanilla and paired with poached rhubarb, almond crumble, mascarpone and orange ice cream. A modern interpretation of a classic, it’s both comforting and refreshing.
10. Tiramisu with Vanilla Ice Cream
This Italian finale is all about balance—layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, dark chocolate shavings, and a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream. It’s sweet, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent—everything dessert should be.
✨ Your Table Awaits
From locally sourced venison to classic tiramisu, No.31’s winter menu is crafted to transport you—through flavour, through memory, through warmth. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a hearty winter meal, or a glass of wine by the fire, we’re here to welcome you with open arms.
📍 31 Amuri Ave, Hanmer Springs
🕔 Open daily from 5 PM
📞 Book now: 03 315 7031
🌐 www.restaurant-no31.nz
A Culinary Journey Awaits
No.31 in Hanmer Springs offers a remarkable opportunity to explore European cuisine without leaving New Zealand. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a casual diner, the dishes here will surely delight your palate. Make sure to try these ten dishes on your next visit and experience a taste of Europe right at home.
