We had friends from Toronto, Canada and decided to take them to this place for a meal. It was absolutely worth it, great atmosphere, friendly staff and the charm of this old but well-preserved building in combination with the delicious meals was a winner. We were very pleased and our friends were impressed.

We were referred to 1908 Cafe Restaurant for dinner from Camp Estate and wasn't disappointed. Located at the small town of Portobello, it is about a 15 mins scenic drive from Camp Estate. Parking was easy as you can do so by the side of the road and May is considered off-peak season.

Although the outside of the restaurant looks normal, the interior deco and wooden finish gives you a feeling of age. Pauline, the lovely owner of the restaurant provided us with a book where you can read more on the restaurant's and also the area's origins while we were waiting for food.

As for the food, it was fresh, well presented and delicious. The lamb shank i ordered is the best i have ever eaten as it was fresh, well seasoned and cooked. The tender chicken breast wrapped in Manuka bacon was very special and delicious due to the wide ranging flavours you get from it.

Pauline also allowed us to change the sides, for the fish and chips, and we really appreciated that as we wanted to try a wider range of food.

We were there for a 2nd night as Portobello is quite near to the Royal Albatross Centre and because we took the Little Blue Penguins viewing tour ended late in the evening. It can be a good dinner stop before heading back to your lodging if you are driving.

If i ever go back to Dunedin, i will definitely stop by the restaurant again. Thanks Pauline for the memorable meals and also please convey our thanks to your head chef, she did it all from cooking to serving!

Cheers!

We ate out several times at 1908 Cafe Restaurant when staying for a few days on the Otago Peninsula. It offers traditional food that is great value, a toasty fire and wonderful service from Pauline and her team. When I wanted something very light and vegetarian for dinner it proved no trouble at all and the wine recommendations were spot on. Recommended! (As a side-note we went into the local pub one night for dinner but quickly fled to 1908 after seeing the ridiculous prices on their menu!)

The food was delicious. Locally caught fish that melted in my mouth, with complimenting vegetables. Desert was made to perfection. The staff were friendly and knowledgable without being overbearing. I would recommend this restaurant, I plan to eat there again when I am in the area.

Wow to come across this restaurant was like winning the lottery.Great food great service
and the waiter had a selection of spectacles for the oldies