The Stoaker Room recently celebrated the second anniversary of its Wānaka  restaurant bringing specially crafted barrel cuisine to the area.

“It has been amazing journey,” says co-owner Sue Barbara. “ We are a destination on Orchard Road with amazing support from locals who have discovered our relaxed, peaceful setting and welcoming team.”

“We have seen a huge upsurge of international visitors who have discovered us online and come out to experience our unique style of barrel cooking that they don’t find anywhere else in the world.”

The original restaurant Wild Earth Wines was first opened at Goldfields in the Kawarau Gorge by Wild Earth founder and Stoaker barrel inventor Quintin Quider. It later moved to Cromwell and was renamed the Stoaker Room with the additional Wānaka location opening in March 2023.

“If people haven’t tried barrel cuisine then it’s a must and our customers repeat return when visiting Wānaka for the distinctive food flavour and presentation,” says Sue. “

There are two signature dishes – “The Stoaker Tasting Platter which is our chef-curated tasting journey featuring five expertly crafted dishes each perfectly paired with award-winning Wild Earth wines and The Butcher’s Feast  which is a generous, rustic platter showcasing premium cuts of smoked and grilled meats, ideal for sharing with friends and family.”

The Stoaker Room is open every day 10.00am until 9.30pm, selling coffee, scones, cheese rolls and sweet treats followed by an all-day lunch and dinner menu from 12.00pm until 7.30pm.

“Our outdoor kitchens allow customers to view and watch the chefs at work. People can peek inside our handcrafted barrels and see how this innovative BBQ cooker works. The real magic happens when the fat and juices hit the smouldering wood chip coals, releasing aromatic smoke that infuses the food with a rich unmistakable flavour. The staves, once soaked in Central Otago Pinot Noir, add another layer of deep, complex aromas from the wine that still lingers in the oak.”

Wild Earth Wines, including their multi award-winning Pinot Noir, are served at the restaurant alongside a global wine list. A range of 16 New Zealand craft beers are available on tap along with spirits, mulled wine and locally sourced non-alcoholic beverages.

“Spring and summer are a great time to enjoy our beautiful, sheltered garden with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for visitors, locals, families, dogs and cyclists,” says Sue.

“We often host weddings here which is always a privilege and our large indoor area is excellent for events. Our catering business allows us to take barrels to any location to set up the outdoor Stoaker kitchen to create truly special experiences for large or medium size home or workplace parties.”