Hopgood’s & Co. Dining and Bar is located in the heart of Nelson. It was opened in 2005 by Kevin and Jane Hopgood with the aim of presenting modern, seasonally-based bistro-style dishes in a casual and relaxing environment.
Originally constructed in the late 19th century, the Dalgety & Company Ltd Building has retained much of its historic charm. As a heritage-listed site, its classic architecture provides guests with a sophisticated dining setting that respects Nelson’s rich corporate trading past.
The restaurant is housed in a heritage-listed premises, formerly known as the Dalgety & Company Ltd Building, which offers a stylish backdrop to the food and wine.
The menu at Hopgood’s is deliberately kept short and changes regularly, allowing the kitchen to make the most of the great produce Nelson has on its doorstep. “Hopgood’s is all about simple food done well; food is sourced from many organic vegetables from local farmers and the restaurant showcase the best wines the Nelson region has to offer.”
The menu celebrates Nelson’s varied seasons, featuring spring’s fresh asparagus and summer’s juicy strawberries. Autumn’s hearty root vegetables and winter’s rich lamb dishes ensure there’s always something delightful and locally inspired for every palate.
Partnerships with local suppliers like Mahana Estates and Hop Federation Brewery underline our dedication to regional ingredients. These collaborations ensure quality and freshness, offering diners a true taste of Nelson’s lively agricultural landscape.
Originally hailing from London, Kevin spent more than twenty years working in some of the city’s toughest kitchens including the legendary Le Gavroche with the Roux brothers.
With a career beginning at London’s iconic Covent Garden, Kevin’s expertise was honed under world-renowned chefs. His experience at Le Gavroche instilled a profound respect for classic techniques and innovative cuisine, which influences Hopgood’s culinary style.
Hopgoods is an oldie but a goodie and we highly recommend a visit.
Recognised by prestigious dining guides, Hopgood’s has earned accolades for its outstanding service and authentic cuisine. Customer testimonials regularly praise the attentive staff and the delightful surprises brought about by the seasonal menu.
Natalija
in the last weekHorrific service. We ordered the seafood platter and wine as soon as we sat down, 30 min later no food so we ask about it and they say 15min wait,so we wait. Another 30min later and still no food. So again we ask and they claim we never ordered food! No apology or anything. Genuinely the worst experience I ever had at a resturant.
Matt Dennies
in the last weekThe best meal we have eaten on our travels around NZ, including a top restaurant in Auckland. Carefully thought out, interesting and local menu with an excellent choice of wines. The venison main was a real stand out. Relaxed atmosphere and all of the staff were so incredibly friendly and welcoming, as well as seeming genuinely proud of the food.
Mark Moran
a week agoWonderful team servicing you. The food is the best we had in New Zealand (southern island this time)
Myles Brown
3 weeks agoBirthday dinner that will be well remembered. The food and service was excellent. The fish was super tasty and excellently cooked. The desert was amazing. The staff were very helpful and really friendly. I think when I am in Nelson, I will be back.
Ken C
a month agoAfter eating at restaurants around the globe, I can honestly say I would be thrilled to eat a meal this delicious in any location you can name. It’s world-class dining in little ole Nelson. We had the smoked salmon cakes, gnocchi, and snapper, with iceberg side salad. The first three dishes were a-maz-ing. The iceberg was good, but not necessarily my favourite salad of all time. Wrapping it all up, the desert was the butternut custard, a unique dish that I never wanted to end. The service was 5-star: attentive and very friendly without being obtrusive. The vibe of the joint is my favourite style, which is cosmopolitan and not even a tiny drop of pretentiousness. I may move to Nelson just to become a regular here.