Best Chinese Restaurants in Invercargill: Discover the Top 3 Spots for Authentic and Delicious Dining
Invercargill, the southernmost city of New Zealand, offers a surprising array of culinary delights, with Chinese cuisine standing out for its bold flavors and comforting dishes. Whether you’re craving crispy spring rolls, savory seafood stir-fries, or classic takeaways, the best Chinese restaurants in Invercargill deliver authentic tastes and warm hospitality. This guide highlights three exceptional Chinese dining spots in Invercargill, each renowned for their quality ingredients, skilled preparation, and community connection.
From cozy dine-in venues to convenient takeaways, these restaurants cater to families, students, and visitors seeking a satisfying meal. Explore our curated list to uncover the top Chinese dining destinations that make Invercargill a hidden gem for food lovers.
1. Ocean Seafood Chinese Restaurant
About the Business
Ocean Seafood Chinese Restaurant, located on Tay Street, is a popular dining destination in Invercargill, celebrated for its extensive menu and fresh seafood offerings. This family-friendly establishment has built a strong reputation for its authentic Chinese cuisine, combining Cantonese and Szechuan flavors with a focus on quality and variety.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer a wide range of dishes, including seafood specialties like salt and pepper squid, Peking duck, and sweet and sour pork. The menu features stir-fries, noodle dishes, hot pots, and vegetarian options, with dine-in, takeaway, and delivery services via Uber Eats. They also provide catering for events and a fully licensed bar.
Who It’s For
Ideal for families, groups, and seafood lovers seeking a dine-in experience, as well as those looking for convenient takeaways or delivery in Invercargill.
What to Expect
Expect a spacious, welcoming dining room with a traditional Chinese ambiance, perfect for group gatherings. The service is attentive, with staff ensuring dishes are served hot and fresh. Takeaways are packaged to maintain quality, and delivery is prompt. The menu’s variety allows for shared platters or individual meals, catering to diverse tastes.
Standout Features
- Extensive menu with a focus on fresh seafood dishes.
- Fully licensed bar with a selection of beverages.
- Popular for group dining and event catering.
- Reliable delivery through Uber Eats for convenience.
Customer Feedback
Customers praise the seafood and variety. A patron shared, “Ocean Seafood’s salt and pepper squid is amazing, and the portions are generous. It’s our go-to for family dinners in Invercargill!”
Why Choose Them?
Ocean Seafood Chinese Restaurant’s diverse menu, fresh ingredients, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a top choice for Chinese restaurants in Invercargill. Their ability to cater to both dine-in and takeaway needs ensures a delightful experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 282–288 Tay Street, Turnbull Thomson Park, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 03 218 2889
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–2:00 PM, 4:30 PM–9:30 PM; Monday, closed
Website: www.oceanseafoodinvercargill.co.nz
Menu Highlights
Top dishes include Peking duck with pancakes, spicy Szechuan beef, and combination fried rice. Their seafood hot pot and crispy spring rolls are popular starters, offering bold flavors and generous servings.
Dining Experience
The restaurant’s warm, inviting decor and spacious layout create a comfortable setting for families and groups. The open kitchen adds a lively touch, with chefs preparing dishes fresh, and the staff’s efficiency ensures a smooth dining experience even during peak times.
Accessibility and Amenities
Ocean Seafood is wheelchair-accessible, with ample parking on Tay Street. Its central location is convenient for locals and visitors, and delivery services via Uber Eats cover most of Invercargill.
2. Ascot Chinese Takeaways
About the Business
Ascot Chinese Takeaways, located on Racecourse Road, is a well-loved takeaway spot in Invercargill, known for its affordable, freshly cooked Chinese dishes. This family-run business has earned a loyal following for its consistent quality, friendly service, and hearty portions, making it a staple for locals.
Key Services / What They Offer
They specialize in Chinese takeaway classics like sweet and sour pork, chicken chow mein, and beef black bean sauce. The menu includes combination meals, noodle dishes, and vegetarian options, with delivery available through Uber Eats. They also offer fish and chips for a Kiwi twist.
Who It’s For
Perfect for busy families, students, and workers seeking quick, budget-friendly Chinese takeaways or delivery, especially those in the Ascot area looking for value and variety.
What to Expect
Expect fast, friendly service in a compact takeaway shop with a focus on fresh preparation. Orders are cooked to order, ensuring hot, flavorful meals with generous portions. The staff’s warmth adds a personal touch, and delivery is reliable, with packaging that keeps food warm and intact.
Standout Features
- Affordable meals with prices starting under $12.
- Combines Chinese dishes with Kiwi favorites like fish and chips.
- Fast delivery through Uber Eats for Invercargill-wide service.
- Family-run with a strong community reputation.
Customer Feedback
Patrons love the value and taste. A review notes, “Ascot Chinese Takeaways’ chow mein is the best in town. The portions are huge, and the service is always friendly!”
Why Choose Them?
Ascot Chinese Takeaways’ affordability, fresh food, and community connection make it a go-to for Chinese takeaways in Invercargill. Their reliable service and hearty meals cater to busy lifestyles.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 286 Racecourse Road, Hawthorndale, Invercargill 9810
Phone: 03 217 5939
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:30 AM–2:00 PM, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM; Monday, closed
Website: www.ascotchinese.co.nz
Menu Highlights
Favorites include sweet and sour pork, combination fried rice, and vegetable chop suey. Their crispy wontons and fish and chips are popular for a quick, satisfying meal.
Dining Experience
As a takeaway-focused venue, the experience centers on speed and quality. The small shop has a counter for efficient ordering, with a warm, welcoming vibe from the family team. Delivery orders arrive hot and well-packaged.
Accessibility and Amenities
The shop is accessible, with parking available on Racecourse Road. Its location in Hawthorndale is convenient for nearby residents, and Uber Eats delivery ensures hassle-free service across Invercargill.
3. Centre St Chinese Takeaways
About the Business
Centre St Chinese Takeaways, located on Centre Street in Newfield, is a cherished local spot known for its authentic Chinese dishes and Kiwi takeaway options. This family-operated business combines traditional recipes with a community-focused approach, offering reliable, flavorful meals at budget-friendly prices.
Key Services / What They Offer
They provide a range of Chinese takeaway dishes, including beef chow mein, sweet and sour chicken, and combination foo yong. The menu also features fish and chips, burgers, and vegetarian options, with pick-up and delivery services available. Their focus is on fresh ingredients and generous portions.
Who It’s For
Suitable for families, workers, and locals in Newfield seeking affordable, hearty takeaways, especially those who enjoy a mix of Chinese and Kiwi-style meals.
What to Expect
Expect a friendly, no-frills experience in a small takeaway shop. Orders are prepared fresh, ensuring bold flavors and hot meals. The staff’s efficiency and warm service make pick-ups quick, and delivery is dependable, catering to Invercargill’s southern suburbs.
Standout Features
- Authentic Chinese dishes alongside Kiwi takeaways like fish and chips.
- Budget-friendly prices with family-sized meal options.
- Convenient location in Newfield for local residents.
- Family-run with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients.
Customer Feedback
Customers highlight the quality. A patron said, “Centre St Chinese Takeaways’ sweet and sour chicken is always fresh and delicious. The portions are great, and the staff are super friendly!”
Why Choose Them?
Centre St Chinese Takeaways’ authentic flavors, affordable pricing, and community-driven service make it a standout for Chinese takeaways in Invercargill. Their versatility ensures a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 1 Centre Street, Newfield, Invercargill 9812
Phone: 03 216 8688
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:30 AM–2:00 PM, 4:00 PM–8:30 PM; Monday, closed
Website: www.centrestchinese.co.nz
Menu Highlights
Popular dishes include beef chow mein, combination fried rice, and sweet and sour chicken. Their spring rolls and fish and chips are favored for quick, flavorful bites.
Dining Experience
The takeaway-focused setup prioritizes efficiency and quality, with a small counter for orders and a friendly atmosphere. The family’s warmth ensures a pleasant experience, and delivery orders are hot and well-prepared.
Accessibility and Amenities
The shop is accessible, with parking on Centre Street. Its Newfield location serves southern Invercargill, and delivery services cover most of the city for added convenience.
Conclusion: Savor the Finest Chinese Cuisine in Invercargill
Finding the best Chinese restaurants in Invercargill means enjoying authentic dishes, generous portions, and heartfelt service. Ocean Seafood Chinese Restaurant, Ascot Chinese Takeaways, and Centre St Chinese Takeaways offer diverse experiences, from seafood-focused dine-in meals to quick, budget-friendly takeaways. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and community connection makes them trusted favorites in Invercargill’s culinary scene.
Ready to indulge in Invercargill’s Chinese dining? Visit one of these top spots for a meal that blends tradition with local charm. Whether you’re craving a family feast or a quick takeaway, these Chinese dining destinations will leave you satisfied and eager to return.