The Mussel Inn is located in the heart of Golden Bay, North West Nelson region of the South Island of New Zealand. A two hour drive from Nelson, over the Takaka hill, through the township of Takaka and on another 17 kms towards Collingwood you will find yourself in Onekaka. Keep your eyes peeled, for the Mussel Inn is very subtly sign posted but can often be recognised by the cars parked on the roadside. Built in 1992 by Jane and Andrew Dixon and their two sons, Henry and Toby, the Mussel Inn could be described as ‘Kiwi woolshed’ meets ‘Aussie farmhouse’ in style of construction. A single room with a veranda on three sides, chunky wooden furniture (tables good to dance on) and a large open fire create a space that is rustic and homely. No need to get dressed up - in fact there is no dress code - although it would generally be more appropriate if clothes were worn - the atmosphere is laid-back and family friendly. The fare is simple and wholesome and as much as possible, prepared in our own kitchen. Famous for our fresh steamed mussels and thick mussel chowder, we also do steak, fish and vegetarian options and a range of snacky foods are always available. We also produce all our own beers, ales, ciders and occasional wines in a small brewery located adjacent to the Mussel Inn. Home made lemonade and ginger beer will please those looking for something non alcoholic and a small selection of Nelson area wines and a basic range of spirits for those who are. Live music is a regular feature, usually on a Friday or Saturday night. We tend to have mostly original folky performers, both local and international along with a bit of jazz, blues, pop, world, ethnic and dance - you won’t find you average pub covers band here - and no drum machines! Neither will you find Pokie machines or TV's - not even a pool table - we're just not that sort of place! So when you come to enjoy the music - you come to enjoy the music. The Mussel Inn is open from 11am till late, seven days a week. There may be a month or so in the middle of winter—around August—when we shut down for repairs and maintenance and staff recharging. From boxing day till the middle of January is our busiest time. Substantial wait times are to be expected over this period but hey ~ what a great place to wait!