Arbour is an acclaimed dining destination established in 2015 in Marlborough, offering an intimate sole chef dining experience paired with warm, thoughtful hospitality. Founded by industry veterans Bradley Hornby, Liz Buttimore, and Benji Smith, the restaurant celebrates the abundance of Marlborough with an ever-changing set menu that puts local producers, growers, hunters, and fishers at the center of the table.
Dining at Arbour is designed to be effortless: guests settle in while Chef Bradley crafts modern dishes inspired by the freshest regional ingredients available, supported by produce grown right at home by his wife Michelle. Front-of-house service is led by awarded sommeliers Liz and Benji, who curate pairings directly from the cellar, creating a seamless and relaxed fine-dining atmosphere surrounded by world-class wine country.
Established in 2015, Arbour has earned its reputation as one of New Zealand’s most compelling culinary destinations. Founded in the heart of Marlborough wine country by business partners Bradley Hornby, Liz Buttimore, and Benji Smith, the restaurant represents decades of combined expertise gained across five-star hotels, luxury resorts, and celebrated dining rooms.
At its core, Arbour operates on an intimate model: a sole chef experience paired with kind, attentive, and unassuming service. Rather than navigating an extensive à la carte list, diners simply relax and entrust their evening to Chef Bradley Hornby. His ever-evolving set menu serves as an ongoing narrative of the Marlborough region, shaped by close relationships with local hunters, fishermen, artisan producers, and farmers.
Bradley’s culinary philosophy is rooted firmly in its surroundings. As he notes, the restaurant is immersed among passionate people crafting world-class food and wine, providing immediate access to exceptional ingredients right on their doorstep. This local connection extends right into the family garden, where Bradley’s wife Michelle—a nurse by day—tends plants and cultivates fresh produce and herbs specifically for Arbour's dishes.
The kitchen's modern culinary creations earned high praise from leading national critics, including a 20/20 review from Jesse Mulligan in The New Zealand Herald's *Viva*, who remarked, "This might be the best restaurant in New Zealand." Every plate reflects surprising touches, precision, and deep consideration for how regional flavors harmonize.
The front-of-house experience is equally thoughtful, guided by co-owner Liz Buttimore and awarded sommelier Benji Smith. Guests can explore an extensive drinks collection or allow Liz and Benji to venture into the cellar to select tailored pairings that match Bradley's courses. Behind the scenes, the close-knit team is supported by guest service specialist Natasha Petersen, who also crafts one-off jewellery under the 'Wild Indigo' label, and the team's beloved canine companion, Charlie.
Beyond evening restaurant bookings, Arbour offers dedicated wedding ceremony hosting and off-site dining through 'Catered by Arbour', extending their signature hospitality and seasonal cuisine across the wider region.