One of the best things about spending time on the West Coast is the food. There’s an honest, back-to-basics quality here you don’t find everywhere else, and that’s the guiding principle behind our restaurant, Monsoon. It’s where we showcase the incredible ingredients our unique corner of New Zealand has to offer.
We believe that to truly experience the West Coast, you have to taste it. That’s why our chefs at Monsoon have built a menu around what’s fresh, what’s in season, and what’s produced right here in our community.
Keeping it Local
When we say local, we mean it. The journey from the source to your plate is often just a few kilometres. Step inside Monsoon, and you’ll find a menu that changes with the seasons, reflecting our close relationships with nearby growers and suppliers.
This means the salad greens have that fresh, crisp taste because they were picked from a local garden just down the road. It’s why the seafood is a highlight for so many of our guests—the fish and mussels are brought in from the Tasman Sea, and the freshness is undeniable.
Beyond the farms, our chefs also draw inspiration from the wild landscape. The West Coast is home to native herbs and ingredients you won’t find on a typical menu. You might notice the unique flavour of horopito seasoning a cut of meat or foraged mushrooms adding depth to a sauce. These are the elements that give our food a genuine sense of place.
Good Food, Simply Done
What I appreciate about the food at Monsoon is its lack of pretence. The focus is always on the quality of the core ingredients. It’s about letting the rich flavour of locally sourced venison or the simple perfection of a free-range egg do the talking.
Dining here is a relaxed experience, connected to the retreat’s easy-going atmosphere. It’s about enjoying a good meal and knowing it supports local families, champions sustainable practices, and respects the natural bounty of the region. There’s a story behind the food—a story of community, freshness, and a real connection to the West Coast.
Join Us at the Table
When you stay with us at Rainforest Retreat, make time for a meal at Monsoon. It’s more than just a convenience; it’s a core part of the West Coast experience. Let us share the flavours we’re so proud of. Pull up a chair, relax, and enjoy a meal that’s as authentic as the landscape just outside the window.
Ready for a taste of the real West Coast? Book your stay and a table at Monsoon to complete your Rainforest Retreat experience.