Oriental Restaurant is a cherished dining spot in central Nelson dedicated to authentic Chinese cuisine. Situated at 117 Hardy Street, the restaurant provides a warm and casual setting welcoming to solo diners, families, and larger gatherings alike. Known for its generous portions, friendly hospitality, and an extensive selection of Chinese teas, it delivers a deeply satisfying meal whether you are dropping in for a quick lunch or settling down for an evening feast.
The kitchen takes pride in preparing vibrant, flavourful dishes that range from comforting classic soups to sizzling platters and regional Chinese specialities. With a dual setup offering a convenient takeaway counter downstairs and a spacious dine-in area upstairs, Oriental Restaurant balances traditional cooking, attentive service, and exceptional value in the heart of Nelson.
Located at 117 Hardy Street in the centre of Nelson, Oriental Restaurant has established itself as an essential stop for lovers of authentic Chinese cooking. Run by welcoming owners who treat every guest like family, the eatery brings together robust traditional recipes, generous servings, and an easygoing, community-minded atmosphere that appeals to locals and travellers alike.
From the moment you step inside, the dining experience is marked by attentive service and the enticing aromas of wok cooking. Guests are treated to an upstairs dining room suited for leisurely lunches or dinner gatherings, as well as a bustling takeaway counter on the ground floor designed for those on the go. Complementing the meals is a carefully curated selection of traditional teas, offering a soothing balance to the bold spices and savoury notes on the table.
The kitchen's menu highlights a diverse spectrum of Chinese culinary traditions, offering everything from comforting broths to sizzling platters. Among the soup selections, the classic Hot and Sour Soup stands out for its warming spice and complex tang, while the delicate Wonton Soup and Sweet Corn Soup with Mashed Chicken provide gentle, comforting alternatives that start any meal on the right note.
For hearty sharing plates, several signature dishes have garnered loyal acclaim. The Drunken Garlic Pork Ribs are renowned for their crisp texture, deep garlicky aroma, and satisfying portion sizes. Seafood lovers consistently seek out the Hot and Sour Fish with Chinese Pickled Cabbage, featuring tender fish swimming in a vibrant, sour-and-spicy broth. Diners will also find succulent Honey BBQ Pork, tender braised pork that melts in your mouth, and sizzling platters of chicken and beef that arrive at the table crackling with aroma.
Oriental Restaurant also caters to diners looking for quick lunches or lighter fare through its range of small plates, noodles, and rice specialities. Dishes like traditional Clay Pot Rice and wok-tossed Yakisoba showcase classic textures, while patrons keen to add an extra kick frequently reach for the kitchen's signature homemade chilli sauce, which pairs effortlessly with every dish.
Vegetarian guests are equally considered, with dedicated dishes such as braised deep-fried tofu and fresh stir-fried greens cooked with the same precision and depth of flavour as the meat specialities. Combined with accessible pricing and relaxed table service, the restaurant presents a well-rounded menu suitable for casual solo diners and lively group feasts.
Beyond the plate, it is the personal hospitality of the hosts that leaves a lasting impression. Visitors often note how readily the owners share dish recommendations and even local sightseeing tips for Nelson and the wider region. Whether you are dropping by for a midday lunch, picking up a quick takeaway order, or gathering around a table for a relaxed evening banquet, Oriental Restaurant offers an authentic and memorable taste of Chinese cuisine.