Paloma Taqueria
Paloma Taqueria offers an authentic Mexican dining experience with a New Zealand twist, boasting a vibrant pink interior and an impressive tequila col...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Paloma Taqueria
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Paloma Taqueria offers an authentic Mexican dining experience with a New Zealand twist, boasting a vibrant pink interior and an impressive tequila collection.
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant is popular and often fully booked.
Value Pick-and-Mix
Opt for the $49 pick-and-mix menu for a diverse and cost-effective dining experience.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Mexican
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Mexican with a Kiwi Twist
Experience true Mexican flavors enhanced by fresh, local New Zealand ingredients for a unique culinary journey.
The Pick-and-Mix Menu
Enjoy exceptional value and variety with the $49 pick-and-mix menu, allowing you to curate your perfect meal.
Surprise Dishes & Standouts
Be delighted by unexpected flavorful dishes, like the highly praised lamb neck, that exceed expectations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant is popular and often fully booked.
Value Pick-and-Mix
Opt for the $49 pick-and-mix menu for a diverse and cost-effective dining experience.
Vegetarian Options
Vegetarian choices may be limited; plan your selection accordingly.
Taco Chef Specials
Ask about the taco chef's specials for unique and delicious taco creations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant is popular and often fully booked.
Value Pick-and-Mix
Opt for the $49 pick-and-mix menu for a diverse and cost-effective dining experience.
Vegetarian Options
Vegetarian choices may be limited; plan your selection accordingly.
Taco Chef Specials
Ask about the taco chef's specials for unique and delicious taco creations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about Paloma Taqueria's vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican flavors, often highlighting the value of the pick-and-mix menu and surprisingly delicious dishes like the lamb neck. While service is generally praised for its friendliness and attentiveness, some guests note that vegetarian options can be limited and portion sizes might not always meet expectations for the price.
"We had a fantastic dinner at Paloma. When we arrived, the place was fully booked for the day, so we couldn't get in right away. But Sofia, who was very friendly, told us to come back in 30 minutes and she would make sure we were seated. When we returned, she was very friendly and the food we ordered was a complete surprise. My husband complained me that the grill was late after the tacos, but when we got the lamb, he immediately apologized to me. It was worth the 3 hour wait at least! And thanks to all the staff who served us, especially Sofia, we had such a wonderful time. It will be one of the most delicious meals we've had on our honeymoon!"
이해민
"We tried the $58 tasting menu, which included one starter, two tacos, a main dish with a side, and dessert. The food was good but not exceptional, and while the portions were well-balanced, the flavors didn’t quite stand out as much as we had hoped.
One downside is the limited vegetarian options—the menu doesn’t offer much variety for non-meat eaters, yet the price remains the same whether you choose meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes, which feels a bit unfair.
The ambiance was pleasant, but our table by the wall felt a bit cramped with not much space around us. That said, the service was excellent, and our waitress was absolutely lovely, making the experience more enjoyable.
Overall, it’s a nice spot with a good atmosphere and great service, but the menu could use a bit more flexibility, especially for vegetarians."
Victoria
"My favourite dining in Wanaka - really liked the vibe and the food was awesome. Do yourself a favour and book here - get the Pick & Mix menu choose your taco and dishes - pay extra for the lamb neck and sip on an awesome margarita before you get to your lamb with a glass of Pinot. Yum 😋 This place is good. Thanks to the team for a great experience !!"
Bruce White
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance as the restaurant is very popular and often fully booked each night.
The pick-and-mix menu offers great value, allowing you to select a variety of dishes for a set price, typically around $49.
While some vegetarian dishes are offered, options can be limited. It's advisable to check the current menu or inquire about specific choices.
Many diners rave about the lamb neck, beef cheek tacos, grilled octopus, and patatas bravas. Don't forget to try the churros for dessert!
Yes, Paloma Taqueria offers a brunch menu on Sundays, featuring items like brunch boards, vegan donuts, and breakfast nachos.
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The Precinct, Wānaka, New Zealand
From intricate tarts and pastries or (and) fried chicken poke bowls at modern coffee shop Kamino, self-care at Ukiyo Salon, high-end shopping at DEVàl, fine, bespoke jewellery from Alice Herald, authentic Mexican and creative cocktails at Paloma, to curated everyday items at Revology Concept Store & Tea House, this new jewel in the Wānaka crown provides thoughtful retail and hospitality in an elegant, yet approachable, space. For the lucky residents of Wānaka, it even boasts a cool co-working space on the top level called Bad Company.
Global eats in our little mountain town
Nestled near the end of The Precinct’s sleek grey laneway, Paloma stands out with its welcoming pink arrow, leading you into a realm of authentic Mexican fare. Named after both a bird and a grapefruit tequila cocktail, Paloma transports you to a different world entirely. Executive chef and owner James Stapley, renowned for his other acclaimed Wānaka establishments Kika and Arc, has crafted something special with Paloma.
Wanaka restaurant guide
Paloma Taqueria and Bar – authentic Mexican meets New Zealand ingredients. Paloma's mission is to make New Zealand's best tacos with a modern twist; anyone who has sampled their menu would agree they've cracked it. The interior of the bar and restaurant is beautifully designed with a warm pink palette, curved walls, and an enormous collection of back-lit tequilas, creating a great atmosphere.
Wanaka's Outdoor Dining Scene
Food Style: The response to Paloma has been overwhelming since it opened mid-winter, according to owner James Stapley, with the restaurant fully booked every night. “Our focus on fresh tortillas made from scratch using New Zealand corn in our own press is one of the attractions. Seeing people’s reaction to eating fresh soft tacos is very cool because most have never experienced them.
Spring in Wānaka: From Where To Eat and Shop to Exploring the Outdoors
Having opened last year, Paloma serves tasty Mexican food with a side of cool decor. Try a taco filled with beef cheek birria or adobo cauliflower, and a cocktail such as the Dragonfruit Margarita. There’s a woodfired oven, the team sources the corn for its house-made tortillas from Hawke’s Bay, and even the tortilla press has a name (it’s Tony, by the way).
Central Otago Destinations
A sparkling collection of tequila displayed within a curved white plaster feature says it all: this is Mexican with a modern slant. Game-changing housemade tacos are the soul of the menu but there are wood-fired meats, too. Drinks include the classic ‘paloma’ – the most popular tequila-based cocktail in Mexico.
Ski Wanaka New Zealand
Paloma was really good, Big Fig for hearty food, Kai Whakapai is a local fave and the food trucks were such a great place for a bite, the shredded beef burrito was the best I’ve ever had!
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