Chamois Bar & Grill

Overview

Chamois Bar & Grill is the casual, lively pub at Mt Cook Lodge—your low‑key spot for dinner and drinks with a front‑row view of the peaks. It’s the village hangout: relaxed vibe, friendly staff, pool table and dart board, and a steady buzz as hikers roll in after a big day on the tracks.

What to Expect

Think unfussy, satisfying pub fare. The kitchen leans into pizzas, burgers, and classics like fish and chips, alongside salads and a couple of bigger plates (steak, salmon). Portions are generous, pricing is resort‑area standard, and there’s a kids’ menu. The summer menu is labeled for vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, and dairy‑free options, though the kitchen isn’t a dedicated GF/DF facility.

Hours and How It Works

• Open daily 4:00 pm–11:00 pm in the main season.
• Dinner menu runs 4:00 pm–9:00 pm; snack menu 4:00 pm–11:00 pm.
• Walk‑in only (no reservations) and cashless.
• Closed Christmas Day.
• Typically shuts down for winter (about May through September).

Menu Highlights (Summer season example)

• Snacks: fries, crispy chicken wings, nachos, falafel sticks, salt & pepper squid.
• Pizzas: Margherita, Vegetarian, Meat Lovers, All Day Breakfast, Chicken with brie and apricot relish.
• Burgers: beef smash, southern fried chicken, spiced chickpea–quinoa (all with fries).
• Mains: fish & chips, salads, ribeye steak, grilled salmon.
• Desserts: warm chocolate brownie, lemon tart, ice cream sundae.
• Kids’ picks: fish & chips, fried chicken & chips, spaghetti bolognese.

Is It Worth It?

Yes—especially because it’s the only pub in the village and the most relaxed place to swap trail stories over a pizza and a pint. Come for the convenience and mountain views rather than culinary fireworks, and you’ll leave happy.

Best Time to Visit

Aim for 4:00–6:00 pm if you want a table without the peak dinner rush. Sunset light on the surrounding peaks can be gorgeous from the windows; late snacks run till 11:00 pm if you’re back from a long hike.