Palliser Kitchen

Set among the organic vineyards of Martinborough, Palliser Kitchen offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience shaped by executive chef Norka Mella Muñoz. Her journey from Wharekauhau Lodge to one of New Zealand’s standout vineyard kitchens is reflected in a menu that helped earn Palliser a Cuisine Hat in 2025. Drawing on her Chilean heritage alongside New Zealand influences, Norka brings a “Chiwi” approach that blends fine-dining technique with a grounded, produce-led philosophy. The menu celebrates local, seasonal and artisanal ingredients, many of them sourced from the estate garden and is designed to pair seamlessly with Palliser’s wines. Sustainability sits at the core of the kitchen, with a strong focus on zero-waste cooking and respectful use of every ingredient. The result is food that feels thoughtful, expressive and closely tied to place. Dishes such as chupe de pāua with herbs and a parmesan breadcrumb crust showcase bold flavour and comfort, while dessert might include leche flan with strawberry gelato and a delicate sugar tuile for a light, satisfying finish. Under Norka’s guidance, Palliser Kitchen delivers a calm, considered vineyard dining experience where food, wine and landscape sit naturally together.