Little Savanna

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#3 of 196 Restaurants in Palmerston NorthSteakhouse, International, $$ - $$$

What is Travellers’ Choice?

Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

Little Savanna

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About

Travellers' Choice

2024

The bringing together of NZ and South African cultures, where flame grilling the best of NZ produce sets us apart. Spacious and amazing environment with friendly service. Suitable for those wanting a meal, drink or just a coffee. Gluten free and vegetarian options available.

Features

CUISINES

Steakhouse, International

Meal types

Lunch, Dinner, After-hours, Drinks

Special Diets

Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options

FEATURES

Full Bar

Highchairs Available

Reservations

Seating

Serves Alcohol

Table Service

Wheelchair Accessible

Location

45-47 Princess street, Palmerston North 4410 New Zealand

Does this restaurant offer free wifi?

Yes

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Hours

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Closed now

• Opens at 11:30 AM

Sunday

11:30 am - 10:00 pm

Monday

5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Tuesday

5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Wednesday

11:30 am - 10:00 pm

Thursday

11:30 am - 10:00 pm

Friday

11:30 am - 11:00 pm

Saturday

11:30 am - 11:00 pm

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4.5

(326)

Excellent

225

Good

Average

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Terrible

Passport06020061000

10 contributions

Best restaurant in New Zealand, & our favourite.

Feb 2024 • couples

We cannot say enough good things about Little Savanna. We drove 8.5 hours to spend the weekend in Palmerston North specifically to dine at this restaurant, twice & it was worth it. It starts from the top with the lovely lady owner who is keeping a constant eye on things, clearing tables, bringing meals, checking people are enjoying themselves etc. She is not afraid of getting stuck in, like the rest of the crew. Then there is the friendly staff, & a special mention must go to Tegan who was phenomenal. Nothing was too much trouble for her, & she certainly went the extra mile for us, ensuring everything was perfect. We must pay a huge compliment also for the excellent cocktails (we travel internationally a lot, & these cocktails are up there!). The meals are divine, you honestly can't fault them. The flavours, marinades & sauces the food is cooked in, just makes you want more. We were desperate for the Cape Malay Chutney sauce, & the Chicken Wing marinade recipes, or to be able to buy them! The most noticeable thing for us was how much the staff were enjoying themselves. They said they loved working there, had a lot of respect for the owners & there was a great team vibe going on. This kind of thing no longer exists in Auckland, so was such a pleasure to witness at Little Savanna. Our only regret is that there isn't a Little Savanna in Auckland, but in saying that, you couldn't replicate the service, quality of food & drink & that special atmosphere anywhere else. P.S. Make sure you leave room for the divine Malva Pudding, you won't regret it.

Written 1 February 2024

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Margie Holmes

Wow, wow, wow!!! This review has absolutely made our day - the whole team will be so pleased to read this, thank you so much!!!! I can't tell you how much we all appreciate it!

Written 4 February 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

123Alison456

Cromwell43 contributions

Lick the plate worthy, no crumb left behind.

Apr 2024 • business

Nothing but superb. Wow what a night. Our waiter Kerry was exceptional really knew his stuff and made us all feel like we were their number one client. His service was on point and an incredible asset to the team. The food was delicious two of us were lucky enough to have the ostrich and talk about a dish that made you want to lick the plate to savour every morsel this was certainly one of those dishes. Everyone at our table enjoyed their meals. Hats off to the team at Little Savannah

Written 13 April 2024

Margie Holmes

Wow, thank you so much for the wonderful review, we so appreciate it!! Kerry and the chefs will be so pleased to read this.

Written 22 April 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jason M

Christchurch48 contributions

I recommend this stop if you are in Palmerston North.

Nov 2023 • couples

Great service , great food and good atmosphere. Dined here in the past and was just as good so very high standard all round. You must try the chicken livers they are very good, my wife had the prawns pan fried in garlic for starters she said was a very good choice. For mains she had chicken skewer and I had the beef fillet and fries as I always do. Our meals where perfect from start to finish and the young girl that served us handle her self very well even though it was her first day on the job. Thumbs up to this restaurant,, I recommend this stop if you are in Palmerston North.

Written 6 December 2023

Margie Holmes

Thank you so much for the fantastic review. Nothing makes us happier than knowing our guests had a great experience with us. Kate, your server will be so pleased to read this, as will the chefs. We really appreciate you going to the trouble to give us this great feedback!

Written 9 December 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

B&M

Palmerston North1 contribution

Luke warm and chewy steak

Feb 2024 • friends

Arrived 6.25pm for a 6.30pm booking with friends. Order would have been taken around 6.45pm. It was a group booking, so had a set menu from which to choose a meal from. There was no price on the menu, so I presumed it would be the same as the menu price for the mains. The awkward shape of the tables meant it was virtually impossible to leave the table, but managed to leave a couple times when others from the adjoining table had got up themselves. Ordered drinks at the bar and was told they would be bought to table. Then not long after that a waiter actually came to the table for drink orders and main orders. The starter, which arrived perhaps a hour later, was a selection of flatbreads with various toppings. I didn’t have any as I’m following a keto diet. My wife gave me 2-3 pieces of pork from her two small pieces as she didn’t realise it was pork and doesn’t eat pork. The mains probably came out around 9pm! I had the scotch. It was luck warm, chewy and not particularly very nice. The butter sauce on top struggled to melt due to its cool temperature. As it was getting quite late and I was very hungry, I persevered. It was also a friends birthday so I didn’t want to make a big issue about and spoil her night, otherwise I would have said something. I had paid for our two sets of drinks separately when I purchased them. I went to pay for our meals and I said I don’t know how much it is as the set menu didn’t have a price and was told it was $60 each. I felt that was expensive for what we got and made that known to the waiter when paying. He didn’t seem too worried by that and I got the feeling he was used to that type of comment. I’ve had much better quality meals for a lower cost in Palmy. We have been here in the past and had a better experience with a smaller booking of 4, so it’s probably not the best place for large bookings. The kitchen was clearly struggling with the number of bookings/patrons in the restaurant. I’d suggest you limit large bookings to ensure a better experience, and so you don’t loose return customers.

Written 2 March 2024

Margie Holmes

Thanks Fearless60329939887 for going to the trouble to give us this extensive feedback. We are obviously very disappointed with this feedback as we pride ourselves on the food and service we deliver. We can only sincerely apologise for letting you down on this occasion, we are continuously striving to learn and improve and can assure you we always try to do our best.

Written 6 March 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

TonyFromHackney

Palmerston North122 contributions

A few issues

May 2024 • couples

Hmmm. The food was nicely done, lamb rack and pork belly mains. However the lamb was requested medium rare, but arrived rare. The place was a bit too warm for my liking, and the wait staff allowed themselves to be easily distracted, which meant we both had to repeat our orders. And it's not like we speak quietly or unclearly. We booked a few weeks ahead, but that was no guarantee of a good table... We got one right by the kitchen, meaning lots of traffic right behind me.

Written 3 May 2024

Margie Holmes

Thanks for going to the trouble to give us this feedback which we always take seriously. The issues you have raised will be discussed at our next staff meeting. Just for your information, we can get booked out weeks in advance so booking a couple of weeks in advance does not guarantee a "good" table. Pleased to read you enjoyed your meals.

Written 6 May 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Sarah C

6 contributions

Work catch up

Nov 2023 • business

The shared platters were adequate at best. Not enough goats cheese balls., The pork on mash swimming in a jus was disappointing in that there were no seasonal veg and the crackling was flat out hard and a tooth breakers so did not eat it. The pork was delicious and tender which was a plus, just too much mash. I should have had the fish which my husband had, I tried his fish and it was beautiful. The accompanying seasonal veg of asparagus and carrots were perfectly cooked, The desert of Lemon cheese cake was a very weird texture, very stretchy and chewy. Too much xantham gum I suspect. However what I did eat the flavour was perfect. Staff were attentive and got the meals out to everyone at the same time which was great, Not sure what others at the table thought. This was just my own experience.

Written 12 November 2023

Margie Holmes

Thanks for going to the trouble to give us this feedback which we always take seriously. We will certainly address the comment on the crackling and cheesecake. Pleased to read that you enjoyed a lot of the food!

Written 14 November 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

david g

Whanganui25 contributions

Perfect (as it always is)

Aug 2023 • couples

This is our Go-To restaurant when in Palmy. The fillet steak is always cooked perfectly and my partner is adventurous with the other unique meat dishes. Last night he loved the Souvlaki Chad was there, guiding us through various options. As I am a no-starch person he kindly offered the delicious creamed spinach as a substitute. Make sure you book as this place is packed but even so the staff are organised, friendly and attentive. We will be back when next in town. Thank you for a great night.

Written 2 September 2023

Margie Holmes

Wow thank you so much for going to the trouble to give us this fantastic review!! It certainly has made our day and we really appreciate it. Nothing makes us happier than knowing our guests enjoyed their experience with us, we really do look forward to welcoming you back!

Written 3 September 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

ChristchurchEats

Christchurch182 contributions

I don't understand the hype

Dec 2021 • none

We visited this place while we were on a trip in Palmy and to say we were underwhelmed would be an understatement. Both my partner and I had ordered the scotch fillet cooked medium rare. The waiter we had was quite attentive to start with and made small talk. When we received our steaks, both were not cooked medium rare and were more medium to medium well which we had mentioned to the waiter. The waiter offered for a replacement which we did take but the replacement wasn't a huge improvement from the original as it was still overcooked. We ended up waiting quite a long time which was probably due to how busy the restaurant was. However, since we mentioned the issue with the steak with the waiter, he seemed to become less attentive and never even came back to our table. Overall, I wouldn't recommend nor would I try it again.

Written 4 February 2022

Winnall01

59 contributions

Great food experience!

Jul 2023 • couples

This is an incredible restaurant and everyone else knows this so bookings are a must! It was buzzing even as we arrived for our early sitting but service was efficient, friendly and helpful. There is no classic martini on their drinks menu but one was created for me without fuss. My husband's deconstructed Bloody Mary was absolutely outstanding! The meat choices are many and varied but my eye fillet was the best steak I've had in a long time, and it was cooked to perfection. To be fair it probably doesn't need any potato accompaniment as the portions are very generous! Great atmosphere, obviously family friendly. Highly recommended.

Written 27 August 2023

Margie Holmes

Wow, thank you so much for the wonderful detailed review. It really has made my day!! The whole team will be so pleased to read this. We really do appreciate it!

Written 30 August 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Colin

Palmerston North5 contributions

Some problems

Jan 2022 • couples

We went to The Little Savana on Friday 29th Jan 2022 for our 38th wedding anniversary. The staff were all very polite. But: Masks: On 3 separate occasions front staff came up to us with masks not correctly on their faces, Masks are of no value whatsoever if worn below the nose. I also noticed that the bar staff were making beverages while their noses were not masked. I felt forced to point it out on each occasion. When I mentioned this to work colleagues they were shocked that this was happening at a restaurant. Drinks: when the waitress asked if we wanted to order a drink, I ordered a stout but got a pilsner instead and had re-ask for a stout. Food: When we ordered the skewered meat, we both ordered the chicken, but warning bells started to flash when she later came and gave us steak knives. This is when I questioned her and got our order changed from steak back to chicken. Bill: Every other restaurant I have ever been to gets me to check the items on the bill. That didn't happen here. I do not know if I was charged for the drink I didn't order. Time: Our seating time was 5:30 and when we booked we were told that the table was needed at 7:30. This was our 38th wedding anniversary and the food took an hour to show up. Everything felt extremely rushed. In future I suggest you get your staff to repeat orders back to the patron (not done). This would have alleviated most of these issues.

Written 30 January 2022

Margie937

Hi TemplarsBrother, Thanks for the feedback which we always appreciate and take very seriously. Sorry to read that staff were not wearing masks correctly, I have already taken steps to correct that. I would however, like to point out, that as staff can work 12 hour shifts, they are allowed to not wear masks if they are not dealing with customers directly. Sorry to heat that there were errors made with your drink and espetadas. We normally do give the guest their bill before they are charged, so again apologies for this error. I can assure you all these errors will be addressed with the staff member concerned. We pride ourselves on the food and service we deliver and like you are obviously disappointed.

Written 3 February 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

holidaysmakelifex

Palmerston North92 contributions

Third time lucky

Jan 2023 • couples

We first went to this restaurant when it first opened and was underwhelmed, second time used a voucher during lockdown for a takeaway feast again not impressed. Looked for a restaurant again and decided third time lucky?? Well again for the quite high end price in Palmerston North not high end food , veggies with the lamb were sparse and cold , fondant potatoes notable as dry and should be drenched in butter . Chicken espendas dry and tasteless we do better chicken thighs at home on the Weber . Overall won’t be returning.

Written 25 January 2023

Margie937

Thanks for going to the trouble to give us this feedback, which obviously we are disappointed with as we pride ourselves with the food and service we deliver. We can only apoligise for your experiences and will be raising your issues with the chefs as we do take feedback seriously.

Written 28 January 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Maryanne

2 contributions

First time..

Jan 2023 • friends

Walked into Little Savanna, there is a guy seated inside the front door . This random guy didnt stand up when I entered. So it took me a moment to realise he actually works at Little Savanna. Not a great start to the experience. It would be nice to feel welcomed and of value to the establishment. At least stand up when a customer enters your restaurant! I ordered this entree with the extra salmon. Hot smoked salmon with lime and paprika, tzatziki, pumpernickel croustini and crispy capers DF* GF* With Extra Salmon $26 Very nice though the salmon was dry. Love the decor and the women's bathroom is a bit special.

Written 20 January 2023

HarveyEats

5 contributions

Faultless service and food every time

Mar 2023 • couples

When the whole team make you feel so welcome! We had an amazing lunch today where we were looked after in the best way possible. We had a lovely guy take care of us for most of our lunch but beautiful encounters with other staff included the chef. The food was exceptional as were the drinks. The ostrich special melted in your mouth as did the goats cheese balls. The Savanna Surprise was a beautiful balanced gin cocktail whipped up by our waiter and it did not disappoint! We loved the passion behind the flavours and the links back to his love of the sea in South Africa. It’s the personal service and touches that make it such a memorable dining experience. We will be back again!

Written 3 March 2023

Margie937

Wow, thank you so much for the wonderful feedback! It certainly has made our day - the whole team will be so pleased to read this, we really do appreciate it and are particularly pleased you enjoyed your experience with us.

Written 7 March 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

SBEH12

Wellington49 contributions

True excellence

Dec 2023 • couples

True Excellence and my honest opinion. We went to Little Savanna in Palmerston North last night for dinner and not only had a delicious meal but also a wonderful dining experience. This restaurant values its customers, the staff are outstanding and so professional, the quality of the food is truly excellent. I cannot speak highly enough about the way we were treated. This restaurant is without a doubt is as good as any you would experience in NZ.

Written 9 December 2023

Margie Holmes

Wow, thank you so much for this amazing review - it has made our day!!! Nothing makes us happier than knowing our guests had a great experience with us. The whole team will be so pleased to read this - thank you!

Written 17 December 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Summer W

4 contributions

Awesome experience!

Jan 2023 • friends

One of the best restaurants I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. Host was amazing, greeted us before we even walked through the door. Staff (especially our Waiter) were absolutely awesome. Made us feel so welcome and tended to all of our needs. Restaurant had a nice, relaxed ambience to it even though it was super busy. Food was absolutely delicious! Pork belly flatbread and the Seafood Chowder with the fresh fish fillet were to die for! All of our food was perfectly cooked, fresh, and well presented. Chefs did an awesome job. Food is definitely on the pricier side for us but well worth it when you factor in service as well. Would highly recommend and will definitely be back in the future. Thank you so much team!

Written 29 January 2023

Margie937

Thanks so much for going to the trouble to give us such great feedback, we really do appreciate it. So pleased too that you realise that the service we pride ourselves on needs to be factored in to the price. The chefs will be so pleased with this review and we all look forward to welcoming you back!

Written 6 February 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.