Best Takeaway Shops in Dunedin: Top 5 Spots for Delicious, Quick Bites You’ll Love
When you’re craving a quick, delicious meal in Dunedin, finding the best takeaway shops in Dunedin can turn a busy day into a culinary delight. Ōtepoti Dunedin’s vibrant food scene, fueled by its Scottish heritage and proximity to fresh seafood, offers a range of takeaway options that cater to every palate, from Asian fusion to classic Kiwi fish and chips. We’ve handpicked five top-rated takeaway shops known for their quality ingredients, speedy service, and unforgettable flavors, perfect for students, professionals, and visitors alike.
These Dunedin-based eateries specialize in takeaway meals, delivering everything from hand-rolled bagels to Taiwanese-inspired baos with local flair. Whether you’re grabbing lunch near The Octagon, fueling up after exploring the Otago Peninsula, or ordering dinner to enjoy at home, these shops provide convenient, mouthwatering options. Read on to discover the top five takeaway shops in Dunedin that promise satisfaction with every bite.
1. Beam Me Up Bagels
About the Business
Beam Me Up Bagels, located on Moray Place, is a Dunedin institution celebrated for its New York-style, hand-rolled bagels. This compact takeaway shop has built a cult following since opening, with locals and students flocking for its fresh, made-to-order bagel sandwiches packed with creative fillings and bold flavors.
Key Services / What They Offer
They specialize in toasted bagel sandwiches with fillings like halloumi, smoked salmon, bacon, cream cheese, pesto, and chili jam. Options include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free bagels, plus iced coffee and homemade sodas. Customers can buy bagels by the bag for home enjoyment or order via Uber Eats for delivery.
Who It’s For
Ideal for Dunedin students, professionals, and visitors near the CBD seeking a quick, customizable lunch or breakfast with vegetarian and vegan options, perfect for a grab-and-go meal.
What to Expect
Expect a bustling, colorful shop with a short wait as your bagel is freshly toasted and loaded with generous fillings. The staff are friendly, and the menu’s variety ensures something for everyone, from classic salmon and cream cheese to spicy halloumi combos. The central location makes it easy to pop in while exploring Dunedin’s cultural hubs.
Standout Features
- Hand-rolled, New York-style bagels made fresh daily.
- Wide range of vegan and vegetarian fillings for diverse diets.
- Convenient CBD location near The Octagon for quick access.
Customer Feedback
One customer raved, “These are the best bagels I’ve ever had—loaded with flavor and so fresh!” Another said, “The halloumi and chili jam bagel is unreal, and the iced coffee is a game-changer.”
Why Choose Them?
Beam Me Up Bagels delivers consistently delicious, customizable bagels with a local twist, making it a must-visit for a quick, satisfying takeaway in Dunedin.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: www.beammeupbagels.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
2. So Bao Noodle Bar and Bistro
About the Business
So Bao Noodle Bar and Bistro, situated on Stuart Street, is a beloved Dunedin takeaway spot known for its Taiwanese-inspired Asian fusion cuisine. With a colorful food truck also roaming the city, this eatery brings bold flavors and addictive dishes to locals and visitors, earning high praise for its creative street food.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer Taiwanese-style baos, noodle dishes, and Asian-fusion street food like crispy chicken and dumplings. Pair your meal with Yakult Soju, local craft beer, or bubble tea. Takeaway is available in-store or via delivery platforms, and their food truck serves at events and markets across Dunedin.
Who It’s For
Great for Dunedin foodies, students, and families craving vibrant Asian flavors, especially those near the CBD or attending local events where the food truck appears.
What to Expect
Expect a casual, trendy vibe with a concise menu of flavorful dishes. Orders are prepared quickly, with baos steamed to perfection and noodles packed with umami. The staff’s enthusiasm adds to the experience, and the food truck’s rotating locations bring the same quality to festivals or markets.
Standout Features
- Signature Taiwanese baos with creative fillings like pork belly and crispy tofu.
- Food truck for on-the-go dining at Dunedin events and markets.
- Unique drinks like Yakult Soju and bubble tea for a fun twist.
Customer Feedback
A customer said, “The pork bao is insanely good—soft, flavorful, and perfect every time!” Another noted, “Found their food truck at a market, and the noodles were a highlight of my trip.”
Why Choose Them?
So Bao’s bold Asian-fusion flavors and versatile food truck make it a top pick for delicious, convenient takeaway in Dunedin’s dynamic food scene.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: www.sobaodunedin.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
3. Best Cafe
About the Business
Best Cafe, a Dunedin institution since 1932, is a retro-style eatery on Stuart Street renowned for its classic Kiwi seafood and fish and chips. With a nostalgic Formica-table ambiance, this takeaway spot is a favorite for locals, ex-students, and tourists seeking fresh, no-fuss meals.
Key Services / What They Offer
They specialize in takeaway fish and chips, featuring blue cod, battered oysters, paua patties, and fish finger sandwiches. Other offerings include seafood chowder, burgers, and ice cream sundaes, with bread and butter as a signature side. Takeaway is available in-store or via delivery services.
Who It’s For
Ideal for Dunedin locals, university alumni, and visitors craving authentic Kiwi seafood and nostalgic comfort food, especially near the CBD.
What to Expect
Expect a charming, retro setting with quick service and generous portions. The fish is sourced locally, ensuring freshness, and dishes like blue cod are lightly battered for a crispy finish. The staff are welcoming, and the straightforward menu delivers consistent quality, perfect for a beachside meal or quick dinner.
Standout Features
- Dunedin’s oldest takeaway, operating since 1932.
- Fresh, locally sourced seafood, including seasonal Bluff oysters.
- Classic bread and butter side with every meal for a nostalgic touch.
Customer Feedback
One guest said, “Best Cafe’s fish and chips are the freshest in Dunedin—pure Kiwi perfection!” Another shared, “The seafood chowder and ice cream sundae brought back childhood memories.”
Why Choose Them?
Best Cafe’s iconic status, fresh seafood, and nostalgic charm make it a go-to for classic Kiwi takeaway in Dunedin’s culinary landscape.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: www.bestcafe.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
4. The Junction
About the Business
The Junction, a cozy takeaway cafe on the corner of Hargest Crescent and Richardson Street, is a local gem just blocks from St Clair Beach. Known for its ridiculously good coffee and fresh, wholesome food, this spot has earned a loyal following for its quality and community feel.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer takeaway sandwiches, pastries, salads, and juices, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Their coffee, sourced from local roasters, is a highlight, alongside cabinet food like savory scrolls and sweet treats. Orders can be placed in-store or via phone for pickup.
Who It’s For
Suitable for Dunedin beachgoers, families, and locals near St Clair seeking fresh, healthy takeaway meals and top-notch coffee for a quick bite or picnic.
What to Expect
Expect a cute, compact cafe with a warm, neighborhood vibe. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the baristas craft excellent espressos. Orders are prepared quickly, making it ideal for grabbing a sandwich and coffee before a beach walk or heading to work.
Standout Features
- Exceptional coffee from local Dunedin roasters.
- Fresh, wholesome sandwiches and pastries with dietary options.
- Prime location near St Clair Beach for coastal convenience.
Customer Feedback
A customer noted, “The Junction’s coffee is the best in Dunedin, and their sandwiches are so fresh!” Another said, “Perfect spot for a quick vegan lunch before hitting the beach.”
Why Choose Them?
The Junction’s stellar coffee, fresh food, and beachside location make it a top choice for healthy, convenient takeaway in Dunedin’s St Clair area.
Location & Contact Details
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Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: www.thejunctiondunedin.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
5. Pattie’s n Cream Diner
About the Business
Pattie’s n Cream Diner, located on King Edward Street in South Dunedin, is a retro-inspired takeaway spot specializing in American-style burgers and handmade ice cream. With a pastel-chic aesthetic and a food truck for events, this diner brings bold flavors and fun vibes to Dunedin’s takeaway scene.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer gourmet burgers with soft milk buns, featuring combos like Cajun chicken with wild fennel spice and bread pickles, plus vegetarian options. Handmade ice cream, shakes, and fries round out the menu. Takeaway is available in-store, via delivery apps, or at their food truck around Dunedin.
Who It’s For
Great for Dunedin families, teens, and burger lovers seeking indulgent, American-style takeaway near South Dunedin or at local events.
What to Expect
Expect a lively, retro diner vibe with quick, friendly service. Burgers are stacked high with fresh ingredients, and the ice cream is a creamy delight. The food truck’s appearances at markets add flexibility, and the menu’s bold flavors keep customers coming back for more.
Standout Features
- Gourmet burgers with unique fillings and soft milk buns.
- Handmade ice cream and shakes for a sweet treat.
- Food truck for event-based takeaway across Dunedin.
Customer Feedback
One client said, “The Cajun chicken burger is out of this world, and the shakes are so creamy!” Another noted, “Caught their food truck at a festival—best burger I’ve had in Dunedin!”
Why Choose Them?
Pattie’s n Cream Diner’s inventive burgers, creamy ice cream, and retro charm make it a standout for indulgent takeaway in Dunedin.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: www.pattiesncream.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Takeaway Shops in Dunedin
Choosing the best takeaway shops in Dunedin means enjoying quick, flavorful meals that showcase the city’s diverse culinary scene. Beam Me Up Bagels, So Bao Noodle Bar, Best Cafe, The Junction, and Pattie’s n Cream Diner offer everything from fresh bagels to seafood classics and gourmet burgers, catering to all tastes and lifestyles. Each shop excels in quality, convenience, and local charm, ensuring a satisfying meal whether you’re in the CBD or by the beach.
Investing in a great takeaway meal elevates your Dunedin experience, whether you’re fueling a busy day or relaxing after exploring. Visit one of these top shops today or order online for a taste of Dunedin’s finest. With their proven excellence and customer-focused service, you’re guaranteed a delicious, hassle-free bite every time.
Helpful Information About Dunedin Takeaway Shops
Takeaway shops in Dunedin offer a diverse and flavorful reflection of the city’s unique blend of Scottish heritage, student-driven energy, and access to fresh, local ingredients. From the lively streets of the CBD to the scenic corners of St Clair and South Dunedin, food lovers can find everything from gourmet burgers and traditional fish and chips to Asian-fusion bites and handcrafted bagels. With Dunedin’s compact layout and community-oriented lifestyle, finding quick, delicious meals that showcase local flavor is both affordable and convenient.
Whether you’re exploring the Otago Peninsula, grabbing a bite on campus, or refueling after a visit to Baldwin Street or the Dunedin Botanic Garden, takeaway shops provide the perfect solution. Many eateries offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with delivery apps and food trucks further enhancing accessibility. Dunedin’s vibrant food scene makes it easy to enjoy high-quality meals that fit a busy lifestyle without compromising on taste.
Choosing the Right Takeaway Shop in Dunedin
- Consider the location—shops near The Octagon, Otago University, and popular beach areas like St Clair are convenient for locals and visitors alike.
- Check the menu for dietary inclusivity; many Dunedin takeaway spots cater to gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian diets.
- Look for shops with strong local reputations and consistent customer reviews on platforms like Google or Uber Eats.
- If you’re attending a local festival or market, keep an eye out for food trucks offering unique, mobile dining experiences.
- Factor in convenience features like online ordering, phone-ahead pickup, and delivery services if you’re short on time.
- Support local businesses that emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients for a more authentic taste of Dunedin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dunedin Takeaway Shops
What types of cuisine can I find at takeaway shops in Dunedin?
Dunedin offers a wide variety of takeaway cuisine, including classic Kiwi fish and chips, Asian fusion dishes, gourmet burgers, and health-focused options like salads and wraps. The city’s diverse food scene caters to many tastes and cultural influences, making it easy to find something satisfying for any craving.
Are there good options for vegetarian or vegan takeaway in Dunedin?
Yes, many takeaway shops in Dunedin offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus. From plant-based bagels and tofu baos to falafel wraps and dairy-free desserts, there’s a strong focus on catering to a range of dietary needs.
Do takeaway shops in Dunedin offer delivery services?
Most popular takeaway shops partner with platforms like Uber Eats and DeliverEasy to provide home delivery across Dunedin. Some also have their own ordering system for pickup or delivery, particularly in suburbs like South Dunedin, North East Valley, and around the university district.
Is it common to find gluten-free options at Dunedin takeaway restaurants?
Gluten-free meal options are increasingly common at Dunedin takeaway shops. Many businesses label their menus clearly and offer gluten-free breads, pastries, or meal modifications to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What are the typical operating hours for takeaway shops in Dunedin?
Takeaway shop hours in Dunedin vary, but most open by mid-morning and close early to mid-evening. Shops in central locations often stay open later on weekends to serve the nightlife and event crowds, while neighborhood cafés may have shorter daytime hours.