Dunedin: Hit the road and find the best eats

Dunedin is one of the southern hemisphere's best preserved cities. It features Edwardian and Victorian architecture from the 1800's Gold Rush. It's also New Zealand's oldest university city, which earned it the reputation as the country's centre of learning.

Is charming scenery and architecture enough to convince you to stop by Dunedin for a trip? If not, then perhaps its superb restaurants and cafes will. It has a wide variety of dining options. You can have a taste of Asia, Europe and even contemporary New Zealand tastes.

Find yourself a cheap car hire deal at Dunedin Airport and hit the road to find these best eateries.

Miga Korean BBQ and Japanese Restaurant

Miga's philosophy is proudly all about balance. This idea rules all of the cuisine that graces the table, with the chef making sure the different flavours and textures compliment each other perfectly. You'll have plenty of delicious Korean and Japanese dishes to choose from. The Korean BBQ is sensational with marinated meats to suit every taste bud. Your waiter brings the BBQ right to your table and grills it in front of you, or you can choose to grill it yourself to your liking.

Bacchus Wine Bar and Restaurant

Bacchus is sit in one of the city's oldest and most historical buildings, the Hectagon. It dates back to the 1880s and its high ceilings and ornate cornices makes Bacchus well worth a visit. It's the perfect setting as you feast upon some of the finest dishes. Come to Bacchus if you want some fine wine and a delicious grill. For 15 years it has been awarded the 'NZ Beef and Lamb Hallmark of Excellence'. Hopefully that makes it easier for you to choose what to order!

Etrusco at the Savoy

Etrusco at the Savoy is one of Dunedin's best Italian restaurants. It's been running for more than 20 years, earning a reputation as an authentic Italian dining jewel. The family-run pizzeria also offers all of your favourite pastas, breads, antipasto and salads. Of course, there's gluten free and vegetarian options for people with special requirements. Match any of these traditional dishes with some fine Italian wine and you'll have yourself a night to remember.

1908 Café Restaurant

Set in the heart of the beautiful Otago Peninsula is the 1908 cafe. Stunning scenery makes dining here such a pleasant experience. Not to mention it's only a half hour drive from Dunedin. You'll be able to choose from a wide range of scrumptious, home-cooked meals. 1908 uses seasonal ingredients from across New Zealand and its cooks create every part of your meal from scratch. Denver leg venison and maple syrup lamb shanks are just some of the tempting delights.

No. 7 Balmac

You know the food is good when you see locals filling up every spare chair at a venue. The same can be said about No. 7 Balmac. This neighbourhood restaurant attracts lovers of fresh herbs and veggies, thanks to its chefs hand-picking ingredients from its very own garden. Breakfast treats you to buttermilk pancake with berries, or traditional eggs benedict. You can pick up some delicious wood-grilled meats and burgers in the evenings. The deserts are even more mouth-watering.

BRIANNA PIAZZA