Our signature Entree - Beef Tartare
1 / 10

Bistro Gentil

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A trendy French bistro offering modern cuisine with seasonal produce, fine wines, and stunning lake views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Our signature Entree - Beef Tartare

Bistro Gentil

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A trendy French bistro offering modern cuisine with seasonal produce, fine wines, and stunning lake views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The best meal we’ve had on this trip — hands down. This French gem delivered on every level."

TIP

Book in Advance

This popular spot gets busy, especially for special occasions. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.

Ask About Pricing

Clarify set menu costs when booking, especially for larger groups, to prevent unexpected bill surprises.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 6PM

Cuisine

Modern French

Price

$$$

Phone

+64 3 443 2299

Address

76A Golf Course Road, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Trust the Chef Tasting Menu

Trust the Chef Tasting Menu

Embark on a culinary journey with a surprise 4 or 7-course tasting menu, showcasing seasonal ingredients and expert preparation.

Google Review+1
Lamb Shoulder Perfection

Lamb Shoulder Perfection

Experience unbelievably tender and flavorful lamb, a standout dish that even non-lamb eaters rave about.

Google Review
Stunning Lake and Mountain Views

Stunning Lake and Mountain Views

Dine with a view! Secure a window seat on the enclosed patio for breathtaking vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.

6 Best Things to Eat and Drink in WanakaGoogle Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🍝🚚👈🏻 #foodtruck #fyp #bistrogenti #bistro #foruyou #pasta #kasterlee
@bistrogenti
223 likes • 14.4K views

Book in Advance

This popular spot gets busy, especially for special occasions. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.

Ask About Pricing

Clarify set menu costs when booking, especially for larger groups, to prevent unexpected bill surprises.

Outdoor Seating Views

Request a table on the enclosed patio for the best views of the lake and mountains.

Trust the Chef

For an adventurous and expertly curated meal, opt for the 'Trust the Chef' tasting menu.

Tips

from all over the internet

Book in Advance

This popular spot gets busy, especially for special occasions. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.

Ask About Pricing

Clarify set menu costs when booking, especially for larger groups, to prevent unexpected bill surprises.

Outdoor Seating Views

Request a table on the enclosed patio for the best views of the lake and mountains.

Trust the Chef

For an adventurous and expertly curated meal, opt for the 'Trust the Chef' tasting menu.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bistro Gentil is lauded for its exceptional modern French cuisine, with many guests calling it the best meal of their trip. Patrons praise the tender lamb, flavorful tartares, and the 'Trust the Chef' tasting menu. While the cozy ambiance and attentive service are frequently highlighted, one review cautioned diners to clarify pricing for set menus when booking to avoid potential surprises.

"Our second visit to Bistro Gentil. Both visits have been exceptional and we will be back.
All 3 courses were superb and lovely wines to choose from.
Special mention for the swordfish entree which was absolutely delicious.
Forgot to take photos of the mains!"

David Calvert

"We tried all the popular restaurants in Wanaka and this one is definitely the best! We had an amazing birthday meal and the service was excellent. The servers were attentive and very friendly. It is located on top of a small hill so if you can have a table next to the window you'll have the best view of the lake and mountains in town. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious so you can comfortably enjoy the great food. Hightlights were the swordfish and beef tartare as starters, the venison and the beef as mains and the seasonal rhubarb for dessert! Thank you to the chefs and the wait staff for an unforgettable evening! ☺️"

Julie B.

"We had dinner at Bistro Gentil tonight and honestly, it was the best meal we’ve had on this trip — hands down.
This French gem in Wānaka delivered on every level.

We went with the Trust the Chef 4-course menu, and it was the perfect choice. Every dish that came out was beautifully presented, perfectly balanced, and full of flavour. It felt like the kitchen was telling a story, and we were lucky enough to sit and listen.

A special mention goes to the lamb — and I say this as someone who almost never eats lamb. It was unbelievably tender, full of depth, and cooked to perfection. I’m still thinking about it.

The setting is elegant but relaxed, and the service was warm, knowledgeable, and just the right level of attentive.

If you’re in Wānaka and looking for a dinner that feels like an experience, not just a meal — this is the place."

Celia Martínez

What People Like

Exceptional French cuisine
Tender lamb dishes
Attentive and warm service

What People Dislike

Potential for price discrepancies on set menus

Frequently Asked Questions

It's a surprise tasting menu where the chef curates a multi-course meal based on seasonal ingredients, offering an adventurous culinary experience.

Where to eat and drink in Wanaka: Your guide to dining outGoogle Review+1

Yes, the restaurant is accommodating of dietary requirements, including vegan options, and staff are noted for their helpfulness.

Google Review

For the best views of the lake and mountains, try to secure a seat in the enclosed patio area at the front of the restaurant.

6 Best Things to Eat and Drink in WanakaGoogle Review

Absolutely! Many guests celebrate special occasions here, praising the exceptional food, wine, and service for memorable evenings.

Google Review+1

While tasting menus are available, it's advisable to confirm pricing and options when booking for larger groups to ensure clarity.

Google Review

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