Elephant Hill
86 Clifton Rd Te Awanga, Te Awanga, Haumoana 4172
Rating: 4.2 ★ (361 ratings)
Details
Elephant Hill is an innovative winery estate found on the idyllic Te Awanga coast in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand. It presents a stunningly contemporary venue with a stylish, warm, and inviting atmosphere. The estate's remarkable setting, overlooking expansive vineyards, the vast Pacific Ocean, and the iconic Cape Kidnappers, truly sets it apart for visitors seeking a memorable experience.
The highlights of a visit include the opportunity to explore a working winery that hand-picks grapes from sustainably accredited vineyards for its small-batch vinification. Guests can enjoy both self-guided and guided wine tastings at the Cellar Door, discovering a range of varietals. The restaurant, when open, provides a spacious dining environment with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring magnificent views accompany delicious cuisine, and an inviting terrace offers further opportunities to soak in the picturesque landscape.
This destination is ideally suited for those wishing to unwind amidst exquisite wine and food, appealing particularly to wine enthusiasts eager to learn more about the estate's special selections. It serves as a splendid location for various occasions, from intimate visits to larger corporate functions and elegant wedding celebrations. Ultimately, its charm lies in the harmonious blend of fine culinary offerings, exceptional wines, and the breathtaking natural beauty of the Hawke's Bay coastline.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: Closed | Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday: Closed | Thursday: Closed | Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Contact
+64 6 873 0400 | http://www.elephanthill.co.nz/
Comments
Wines were very good. Highly recommend.
The food was exceptional every time and, to quote my husband, it was “the best meal of my life” — praise that was entirely deserved. I recommend the 'Trust the chef' menu, each course arrived as a surprise, was incredibly creative and of a very high quality.
The service was equally outstanding: attentive, and genuinely friendly without being intrusive. The wines were superb—so much so that I couldn't leave without taking a box home for my drinks trolley.
Both groups we dined with have been raving - and recommending - the restaurant ever since. We would not hesitate to recommend it and are already looking forward to our next visit.
The service was great - attentive without being over the top. Courses were cleared and brought out promptly, which we really appreciated. The wine pairings were also lovely, and our waiter was knowledgeable and helpful.
Unfortunately, the food was disappointing. The portions were extremely small. While there was one standout dish (the beef, which I loved), it was still very minimal. We actually went home and made sandwiches afterwards as we were still hungry.
It also would have been nice to have a menu available to refer to during the meal. Although each dish was explained when served, having something to look at while eating would have enhanced the experience.
The atmosphere felt a bit underwhelming as well, some of the outdoor furniture was fraying, and the umbrellas looked rusty and worn. The space could definitely do with a refresh.
Overall, a mixed experience with great service but let down by the food and setting.