About Us
Waterfront Restaurant a fresh face in Nelson’s dining out scene
The Waterfront Restaurant and Bar is located on Nelson’s Wakefield Quay, and is part of the city’s growing waterfront culture. Owners Peter Marquet and Carolyn Elkington bought the business - formerly the Harbour Lights restaurant - in June 2005. They changed the fare from its Italian fine dining style to their own take on great tasting modern food using the best in fresh local produce and ingredients the region has to offer.
“We wanted to provide our customers simple local food with big flavours,” says Peter Marquet. “Our aim is to explore the taste of Nelson, using locally produced seafood, game and other food that is seasonally available and share it with locals and visitors alike.”
Peter Marquet and Carolyn Elkington: owners of the Waterfront Restaurant and Bar
Peter Marquet has been in the hospitality industry for over 25 years now, and thought it was about time he started his own restaurant. “I started out running nightclubs and bars,” says Peter, who has worked in Dunedin, Christchurch and Nelson. “Being in the industry you get to know the different trends and international influences, be it food or entertainment. I’ve always enjoyed trying new foods and flavours as they came into New Zealand restaurants, so I know what I like when it comes to eating out.”
Restaurant business a new era for partners Peter and Carolyn
When the old Harbour Lights Restaurant came on the market, Carolyn and Peter decided the time was right. “Having our own restaurant was the next logical step for us,” remembers Carolyn.
The couple worked hard to turn the place into a warm, friendly restaurant where people could enjoy good food, good wine and great views across the water. Their aim: to showcase the best of New Zealand and Nelson’s seafood and produce in a way that was more accessible for the local market. “We wanted to create somewhere that Nelson people can gather for a relaxed meal that tastes exquisite,” says Peter.
Bringing the freshest of NZ flavours to Nelson foodies
The chefs at the Waterfront are an important part of the flavours that come out in its various dishes. “The food style is a reflection of the talent we bring into the kitchen,” says Peter, “with touches of traditional French and modern Asian influences.”
The delectable array of dishes are all created using fresh, locally produced ingredients, including freshly caught fish, locally grown mussels, scallops and other shellfish, seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh local herbs and superb local Nelson olive oil.
The Waterfront’s menus change seasonally, to reflect what is available locally as well as providing a new set of exciting flavours and dishes to try. At any time of year, you can be sure that only the best in fresh local produce is used to create something exquisitely Nelson for you to enjoy.
