Careys Bay Historic Hotel

We held a birthday event here a couple weeks ago. What am incredibly hospitable service we had. Nothing was an issue and they were more then happy to accommodate all of our requests. We were able to decorate, they lit candles around the room for us, prepared the birthday cakes and presented them so beautifully, they even gave us a private space at last minute. We felt so taken care of and the small details of effort did not go unnoticed - I was so impressed! The food was excellent! We were a big party yet the food came out quick, altogether and hot. Special mention for the gorgeous ceviche, tender lamb shank and perfect cooked steak...perfecto! Overall, it was a really special evening made even more great by the excellent care and hospitality we were shown. Thanks so much!

Really nice exterior and interior. If you get a window seat the views are lovely. The wait staff were very friendly and knew the menu well. Unfortunately both meal items we ordered were very disappointing. The fish and chips had the thickest batter I have ever seen which wasn't pleasant to eat. The fish itself we were told would be Gurnard (as they were out of Sole), however it very much tasted like Sole and when we got the receipt it confirmed they had given me this. I personally wouldn't have chosen another meal had I known it would be Sole. We also had the soup of the day which was leek and potato but it was spicy, like chilli powder had been added, which was disappointing as it then tasted nothing like the traditional leek and potato soup we were expecting. While the location is nice I probably wouldn't recommend coming here for a full meal. The chips and beer selection was decent if pricy given the overall quality. It would be a good place to come for a drink and to look over the port.

Awesome dinner. Mussels have been amazing, the fish of the day - panfried - was perfect as well. Next time in this area - for sure going to repeat that experience

What a fantastic find, I had the daily market fish which was "Monkfish" grilled with seasonal vegetables and a beautiful cream sauce. It was so soft and flaky and cooked to perfection. My mum had the seafood chowder which also was fresh and seasoned perfectly. I order the rhubarb ginger jam mocktail which I highly recommend! A great stop for a well cooked and quality meal. Definitely worth the time out to try.

This restaurant is a true hidden gem! We had the seafood platter, and it was fantastic—the shellfish was incredibly fresh and everything was fresh The service was exceptional; our server was attentive and offered great suggestions. We loved the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, which made for a perfect evening out. For an underrated spot that delivers on every front, look no further. We can't wait to go back!

What a truly beautiful and charming place. From the moment you step inside, you feel the cozy, welcoming vibes that make this hotel so special. The historic photographs displayed on the walls tell stories of the past and add so much character to the space. I especially loved the old-style cupboard showcasing vintage cutlery — such a thoughtful touch that really connects you to the history of the place. The bathroom was bright and sunny, which added to the comfort and warmth of the stay. Outside, the view in front of the hotel is absolutely stunning — peaceful, scenic, and perfect for soaking in the beauty of Carey Bay. To top it all off, the food was delicious and beautifully prepared. A perfect blend of history, comfort, and great hospitality. Highly recommend visiting if you’re in or around Dunedin.

We enjoyed a terrific lunch here off of a cruise ship. The seafood chowder and seafood platter were beautiful. This is our third time in several years and we always enjoy it. I highly recommend this pub for a casual lunch if you have the opportunity. It has a great atmosphere and history.

Great little pub, just a few minutes from the city. Great fresh food, nice location and outlook

Carey's Bay Historic Hotel (and Pub) is an unassuming stone building just past the port near Port Chalmers. Our host recommended we eat dinner there for their on-menu seafood. We showed up without calling for a reservation -- something we recommend others do -- since there were no indoor tables available for dinner when we got there (on a week night). We were able to find an open outdoor table, and they provided blankets to use, as it can get chilly by the water. We ordered a couple beers while waiting for our food (a milk stout and a Hefeweizen). At this point it started to sprinkle just as our food came out. Fortunately, we were quickly moved to an inside table (another party had finished their meal and the table was available). Not only was the staff great, the food was also excellent. We ordered the seafood bowl (a big bowl of steamed scallops, clams, mussels, green lipped mussels, and white fish in a garlic-coriander-butter broth), the Thai curry seafood bowl (the same steamed fish but in a creamy red Thai sauce, served over rice), and a plate of loaded wedges (a staple menu item across all of New Zealand). The seafood portions were huge -- we probably could have split one between the two of us. And the seafood was excellent! Some of the best I've had in recent memory. In all this little gem turned out to be the perfect spot to take a chance on. And the secret must be out because it's a popular place worth hopping into for dinner or drinks.

If you want seafood, thus is one of the places to get it. Fresh with an asian spin. Great selection of beer and over looking a sheltered part of otago harbour makes this place worth a visit. The decor is historic and quaint. The food is great, worth paying for fresh seafood. The Poisson cru is a great take on cerviche with an Asian spin. Look out for the seafood specials, bluff oysters freshly shucked from the shell are a highlight when they are in season.