Bistro Gentil

  Bistro Gentil created the BEST of problems- we wanted to eat more than we knew we could! After some haggling for favorites we had three entrees and two mains with... read more a local glass of 'liquid' dessert to finish. A busy Saturday night was expertly managed...More

  We happened upon Bistro Gentil by accident. During the day it’s the tasting Room for Maudes Winery. Each night it transforms into a casual but totally decadent restaurant, serving some... read more of the best food we’ve had anywhere in the world. Chef Mario is from South...More

  Fabulous meal, thet best we have eaten in a long time. Easily beats the #1 rated place.

Best on a nice day, to eat outside.

  This is hands down the best meal i had during my entire 14 days trip in the South Island. Definitely amongst the top 10 meals , I had for ... read more past 18 months, which is saying a lot, since i have visited some top tier cities/countries...More

  My husband (woo!) and I recently wed in an intimate ceremony in Wanaka, New Zealand, and we chose Bistro Gentil for our celebration dinner with our family that evening. Sinead... read more from Bistro Gentil was my main point of contact from my first email, and she was so helpful and accommodating with all of our requests. On the night, I was thrilled when I found that she was also our host for the evening. We opted for the 5 course tasting menu with matched wines, and Sinead was very happy to accommodate deviations to the menu for those with dietary restrictions or non-drinkers. Every single dish was world class, and the wines were some of the best I've ever tasted. The atmosphere of the restaurant was warm and welcoming and we loved having our own little private area with stunning views for the night. We are so happy that we chose Bistro Gentil to top off the best day of our lives!

  This place was a gem. The food was superb, particularly the tartare and confit. Same room for dessert . The Maude wine selection was good. ... read more About 100% markup on their own cellar door which is a bit rich but nice reserve Pinot.

  Another great recommendation from our Airbnb Host, thank you!! Bookings essential as it is very popular!
What a lovely surprise to walk into this restaurant. So warm and cosy on... read more a horrid Summer Night that was as cold as any winters evening. The waitress had the common sense to keep the door closed that lead to the covered outdoor area to keep us in the restaurant cosy - thank you not many consider to do this! The chairs I loved - they had a sheepskin cover over them and added to the comfort. We had Pinot Wine from the Maude Winery to drink a perfect compliment to our meal. Soup was had for a starter - good old fashioned French Onion with a lovely cheesy top, Wagyu Steak was just melt in your mouth cooked and the lamb backstrap was worth the visit for sure. Unfortunately too full to enjoy desert but will be back next time to try this! Thank you all for such a memorable night!

  We are Wanaka locals and have dined at BG many times over the past 6-8 years. Some time ago, I found that while the food was amazing, it was often... read more a little too fancy in the fact that the dish comprised of too many flavor's...More

  Rare is it that I find a restaurant that can satisfy my tastes and feel comfortable dining in - the portions are just the right size, not too small or... read more large, and the atmosphere was warm and cosy, not to mention the vegetarian main was to die for. It’s incredibly difficult to make nice vegetarian/vegan food let alone amazing vegetarian/vegan food! its almost a shame there weren’t more vegetarian options on the menu to explore but they seemed very accommodating to special dietary requirements checking in with me numerous times before preparing the dishes and serving. You could tell that they really paid attention to great flavour combinations when crafting the menu, not just for the sake of coming across experimental.
I tend to struggle with regular dining experiences because of stomach issues but the food was easy for me to stomach without sacrificing unique flavour. Bonus - there is a mock tail of the moment (different every time) and you get a surprise amuse bouche between each course.
Overall I was thoroughly impressed and can’t wait to visit again!

  Amazing! We loved this place, great food, wines and service. Right from when you pull in the driveway and see the whole place lit up like a Christmas tree you... read more feel welcome. Inside is nicely laid out, the staff are really lovely and helpful (as...More