We had booked for a 6pm dinner.

I ordered fish of the day, Orange Roughy with salad and my wife ordered Poppies Salad with chicken as an extra. I also ordered a 500ml bottle of sparkling mineral water and my wife, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Table service was prompt and cheerful and the meals arrived in good time.

The Orange Roughy and salad was underwhelming at best. The fish was served on baked or sauteed carrot, amongst other vegetables. Was the fish meant to be hot or cold? The salad contained shredded fresh carrot with an uninspiring dressing. Outcome, carrot done two ways!

My wife thoroughly enjoyed her salad and chicken.

As more guests arrived it became apparent that the cafe was woefully under-staffed. Despite the pressure the wait staff did exceptionally well. At one stage a kitchen hand, attired with a filthy apron, helped with table service.

Considering the high-pitched menu prices, management of Poppies Cafe could give consideration to hiring more up-front staff and, ask themselves whether the food choices are suitably matched to the side salads or side vegetables.

Invoice #017211123185406

For a small town, it was great to find such a good restaurant. They clearly really cared about providing good food and drink. We really enjoyed it there, good value too, and will definitely go back if near Twizel again. Highly recommend it.

Wasn’t expecting the food here to be really good. Especially their desert is a must to order. Tried their desert for the first time cause was a bit hungry, and it turned out superb. We decided that we will get dinner the next day from here and it turned out excellent too.

Visited Poppies last night with a group of friends. The food was delicious especially the soup, local salmon and home made ravioli. The price was good too but the best part was the warm welcome and helpful service and advice from the staff. One even got her car and drove me to the place I was looking for. Fantastic service. Thanks again

This is the best place to go for a meal if you're in Twizel. Great service. Husband had the fillet steak which he could't fault and I had the gnocchi which was delicious. We shared the Poppie's special dessert which was fabulous. A lovely place to go.