Hooked on Marahau — Restaurant in Tasman

This restaurant was recommended to us by someone from Nelson and it was really very disappointing, We were seated out the front which could have been nice with a nice outlook except we were seated next to noisy kids ++ who were talking/yelling/singing at the top of their voices with parents who were oblivious to how it was affecting other diners- not the restaurant's fault but not a great start. The menu not very exciting at all and really wasn't any much different to a pub menu really. We ordered ceviche which I have had many times and like to have with a large squeeze of lemon so asked for lemon when ordering it. It arrived without it, so reminded the waitress who came back with 2 small slices you would put in a drink- not at all squeezable, so asked for a proper wedge. This was met with a reaction like I was asking for something special or expensive. 1 wedge arrived My husband asked for wasabi and he was looked at as if he was talking a different language and then told 'no' they did not have any. The ceviche arrived and unfortunately, the fresh herbs mentioned in the description in the menu was coriander which my husband cannot eat. Lucky for me because the serving was very small with fish cut into very tiny pieces and not big enough to share anyway. Something like coriander should be specified in the description as it is so polarising and many people do not like it. The squid we ordered was just ok. The 'special coating' was pretty underwhelming really. The mayonnaise that accompanies it was also on the small side and we had to ask for more. Not enough provided for the amount of squid. The Bao buns with lamb were ok. The buns texture was as if they had been over steamed, not light and fluffy, a bit dense (I often use these so had a fair idea how they should be) The best part of the meal was the iced coffee at the end which came with ice cream and cream- very tasty. The whole experience was underwhelming, with very average food, served by wait staff who seemed not very friendly and flustered and reacted to requests like we were asking for the world when we had been told it was excellent. Very...

Cafe Hooked stands out as a gem among New Zealand’s culinary landscape, effortlessly securing its position within my top three cafes across the country. From the moment you step inside, the freshness of their ingredients becomes apparent, a testament to their commitment to quality and flavor. Each dish I’ve had the pleasure of sampling resonated with a comforting essence of home, a rare find in the bustling cafe scene.

But it’s not just the food that sets Cafe Hooked apart; it’s the service. The staff here operate at a top-tier level, combining professionalism with warmth in a manner that makes every visit memorable. They have a unique way of making each guest feel thoroughly attended to, yet never rushed, striking the perfect balance between attentiveness and giving space to enjoy the meal.

In conclusion, Cafe Hooked is more than just a place to eat; it’s a culinary experience that reminds you of home while offering the freshest, most delightful dishes. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, missing out on this cafe would mean missing out on one of the finest dining experiences New Zealand...

After completing the Abel Tasman track, me and my girlfriend popped in here for a bite to eat and to clench our thirst. To start off we were greeted by a friendly Australian called Scottie. We had a great chat as my girlfriend was also from “down under”.

Me and my girlfriend decided to order two pints of the local brewed pale ale which was absolutely delightful.

We then decided to order some of the muscles and snapper fish as after our trek, we had built up quite the appetite.

We enjoyed our beer with the ocean views and was pleasantly surprised with how quick the food arrived. The food looked incredible and tasted even better. Unfortunately me and my girlfriend were so hungry we didn’t even think to take a photo! I can assure you though it was absolutely fantastic.

It was tasty and filling. I would highly recommend the snapper fish dish particularly, as keen fish eaters we were very impressed.

Overall fantastic experience, if you’re looking for good quality food, great beer and great service this is without doubt the...