The Blenheim Central area is a hub for a vibrant food and drink scene, showcasing the region's fresh produce and world-renowned wines. It offers a mix of high-end eateries, traditional pubs, and bustling markets to cater to every taste and budget. Several wineries around Blenheim feature on-site restaurants that provide exceptional alfresco meals using local ingredients, such as the Wairau River Restaurant, Alan Scott Bistro, St Clair Vineyard Kitchen, Wither Hills, and Jack's Raw Bar at Cloudy Bay, each offering a unique take on Marlborough cuisine with stunning vineyard views.
Aside from wineries, there are numerous bars and restaurants throughout Blenheim that cater to diverse palates. The Goodhome Gastropub is known for its hearty dishes and relaxed atmosphere, while Dodson Street Beer Garden and Speights Ale House offer casual dining experiences with a wide selection of craft beers. Seamus' Irish Bar along Picton's waterfront provides excellent pub grub and live music entertainment. Blenheim is also renowned for its fresh seafood, especially the famous Marlborough green-lipped mussels, with Mills Bay Mussels in Havelock offering a tasting platter featuring mussels cooked in various ways.
To fully experience the local culinary culture, visitors can explore the Blenheim Farmers' Market held every Sunday morning at the A&P Showgrounds, where a variety of fresh produce, cheese, nuts, sauces, relishes, jams, fruit, vegetables, bread, cake, pastries, fish, meat, coffee, and ready-to-eat brunch dishes can be found. Additionally, Bayley's Friday Night Feast is a must-visit event that celebrates street food in Blenheim.