Tides Hotel Bar & Eatery is a design-led bar and restaurant on the Maitai River, at 66 Trafalgar Street in The Wood, Nelson, moments from the city centre. The former Trailways Hotel was rebranded, and the Munro family, who have run it since 1993, have filled it with local art, colourful patterns and contemporary furniture. Guests can sit on the balcony with a local wine or beer and look over the river. The menu includes shared plates such as prawns and smoked fish on toasted ciabatta, crispy fried chicken salad, twice-cooked five spiced pork, and slow-cooked lamb with rosemary and garlic, followed by desserts such as house-made Baileys ice cream.
The website says the restaurant suits a romantic dinner, a family occasion, a wedding anniversary or business entertaining. Groups of up to 12 can book online, and larger functions are arranged by enquiry. Parties of nine or more are asked for a credit card, and a cancellation within 24 hours of the booking time carries a $250 fee as at 2026. Our pick on the Maitai River for a riverside dinner.