9 Restaurants in Lake Tekapo with vegan options
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If you're searching for Restaurants in Lake Tekapo that cater to healthy, plant-based lifestyles, this guide is for you.
Despite being a small town (around 700 residents), Lake Tekapo surprises vegan travellers with a range of options. Many places don’t highlight vegan items online, so I’ve done the research for you.
In this article, you'll discover every restaurant, café, and food truck in Tekapo serving at least one delicious vegan dish, making your mindful journey easier and tastier.
💡 Tip: Click the restaurant’s name to access its website.
Restaurants in Lake Tekapo with vegan options
Astro Café
Vegan dishes: Falafel wrap with fresh veggies and hummus; sometimes a vegan sandwich is available.
Why visit: Enjoy panoramic Mackenzie Basin views after a scenic hike or drive (NZ$8 road fee to drive up).
Address: Mount John Observatory, Godley Peaks Rd, Lake Tekapo
Dark Sky Diner
Vegan dishes: Seasonal specials. It may offer wood-fired pizza, spinach-tofu pasta, plus vegan ice cream.
Why visit: Fusion dishes served under observatory skylights with lake views.
Address: 1 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo
Dolce Pizza (food truck)
Vegan dishes: Wood-fired pizzas made with true vegan cheese.
Why visit: Grab-and-go at the park; great for lakeside picnics with stunning views.
Address: 6 Rapuwai Lane, Lake Tekapo
Fishtail (Indian restaurant)
Vegan dishes: Samosas, onion bhaji, pakoras, and curries like channa masala or aloo saag. Make sure you ask for no butter, cream or curd.
Why visit: Warm, spice-rich comfort food with easy vegan swaps and friendly service.
Address: 16 Rapuwai Lane, Lake Tekapo
Jack Rabbit Café
Vegan dishes: Veggie breakfast or burger made vegan on request; organic fair‑trade coffee.
Why visit: Bright lakeside café, ideal for mindful mornings or after walks.
Address: Neil Anderson Way, Corner Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo
Kohan (Japanese restaurant)
Vegan dishes: Ask staff to highlight vegan options, such as miso soup, edamame, tempura vegetables, wakame udon, and agedashi tofu.
Why visit: Japanese menu with lake views and flexibility for plant-based diners.
Address: 6 Rapuwai Lane, Lake Tekapo 7945
Little Fool Bakery (food truck)
Vegan dishes: Plant-based pastries, cakes, croissants, cookies, plus occasional savoury options.
Why visit: Fully vegan menu with delightful desserts by the lake.
Address: Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo. Check Instagram for daily site, hours, and menu.
The Better Batter (food truck)
Vegan dish: Mushroom-based “fish” and chips version of their signature dish.
Why visit: A creative vegan twist on NZ’s favourite takeaway.
Address: Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo.
The Greedy Cow Café
Vegan dishes: Vegan wraps and bagels; other breakfast/lunch dishes may be vegan‑available upon request.
Why visit: Cosy café vibes with hearty vegan-friendly breakfasts, ideal for a slow morning in Tekapo.
Address: 16 Rapuwai Lane, Lake Tekapo.
Tips for vegan travellers in Tekapo
Always ask: Some dishes are easily veganised (like curries, burgers, or breakfast plates).
Check timing: Opening hours of most restaurants in Tekapo often change throughout the year depending on the season. For the most accurate information, it’s best to check each place’s updated hours directly on Google Maps or social media page before your visit.
What will you try first?
Lake Tekapo offers more vegan-friendly choices than you might expect; from falafel on the mountain to wood-fired pizza by the lake. Which one will you try first?
And when you're ready to explore beyond food, check out our next article ”Lake Tekapo in winter: 10 non-obvious activities”.
About the author: Thaíz Lara is the creator behind New Hermits, a New Zealand-based storyteller who believes in the power of story and soul-filled travel. After living in 5 countries and exploring 60, she has come to understand that the most meaningful journeys often begin within. Learn more about Lara.
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