Introduction
Queenstown, a name synonymous with breathtaking scenery and heart-pounding adventure, holds another secret: a vibrant and delicious food scene just waiting to be explored. Beyond the bungy jumps and the snow-capped peaks, a culinary landscape unfolds, offering everything from elegant fine dining experiences to satisfying casual bites. Queenstown isn’t just an adrenaline junkie’s paradise; it’s a haven for food lovers too.
Nestled amidst the Southern Alps of New Zealand, Queenstown draws visitors from across the globe with its promise of exhilarating activities, stunning natural beauty, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re conquering the slopes, cruising on Lake Wakatipu, or simply soaking in the views, Queenstown captivates with its unique charm.
But all that adventuring works up an appetite. That’s where Queenstown’s impressive food scene comes in. Think of it as the perfect complement to your action-packed itinerary – a chance to refuel, relax, and savor the flavors of the region. From locally sourced ingredients to innovative culinary creations, Queenstown offers a delightful array of options to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal, a quick and tasty snack, or a sweet treat to end the day, you’ll find it here.
This guide is your passport to discovering the best food places in Queenstown. We’ll navigate through a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Get ready to explore everything from sophisticated dining rooms to cozy cafes and iconic burger joints. Prepare your palate for an unforgettable culinary adventure in the heart of New Zealand! We’ll be diving into some fantastic fine dining experiences, the best casual restaurants Queenstown has to offer, cozy cafes for brunch and coffee, delectable dessert spots and even some budget-friendly options for those watching their wallets!
Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants
When it comes to indulging in a truly special culinary experience, Queenstown boasts several exceptional fine dining restaurants. These establishments offer not only exquisite cuisine but also impeccable service and stunning settings.
Amisfield Restaurant
Imagine dining amidst rolling vineyards, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. That’s the experience that awaits you at Amisfield Restaurant. This award-winning restaurant is renowned for its elegant ambiance, its focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, and its innovative tasting menus. Amisfield offers a “Trust the Chef” menu, a multi-course degustation showcasing the very best of Central Otago’s produce, paired perfectly with Amisfield wines.
The dishes are artfully presented, each bite a symphony of flavors and textures. Expect beautifully prepared seafood, succulent meats, and vibrant vegetarian options. A particular highlight is often the lamb dish, sourced from local farms and cooked to perfection. Expect to pay a premium for this level of quality and service, with the tasting menu priced accordingly, but it’s an investment in an unforgettable culinary memory. Amisfield is considered one of the best restaurants in Queenstown because of its commitment to showcasing the region’s best produce in an elegant and memorable way. The wine pairings are also exceptional, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Botswana Butchery
For a more decadent and theatrical dining experience, look no further than Botswana Butchery. This stylish restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere, with its plush leather seating, dark wood accents, and open fireplace. Botswana Butchery, as its name suggests, specializes in premium cuts of meat, cooked to perfection over an open flame.
While meat is the star of the show, Botswana Butchery also offers a range of other delectable dishes, including fresh seafood, flavorful salads, and hearty sides. A standout is their slow-cooked lamb shoulder or their prime rib. The wine list is extensive, featuring both local and international wines to complement your meal. While Botswana Butchery falls into the higher price range, the quality of the food, the attentive service, and the vibrant atmosphere make it a worthwhile splurge. It’s considered one of the best restaurants in Queenstown because of its consistently high standards, its focus on premium ingredients, and its lively and stylish setting. Perfect for a special occasion.
Casual Dining and Local Favorites
Beyond the fine dining scene, Queenstown is home to a plethora of casual eateries and local favorites that offer delicious food in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Fergburger
No visit to Queenstown is complete without a pilgrimage to Fergburger. This iconic burger joint is a local institution, known for its incredibly juicy and flavorful burgers. The hype is real! Prepare for a queue, as Fergburger is consistently busy, but trust us, it’s worth the wait.
The burgers are made with premium New Zealand beef, fresh ingredients, and a secret sauce that keeps customers coming back for more. The “Ferg Deluxe” is a popular choice, featuring a juicy beef patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, bacon, and aioli. Fergburger burgers are a must-try. The price point is reasonable, considering the quality and size of the burgers. To avoid the longest queues, try visiting during off-peak hours, such as mid-afternoon. Fergburger is a must because it embodies the spirit of Queenstown – a laid-back and fun atmosphere with seriously delicious food.
Pedro’s House of Lamb
For a taste of authentic New Zealand cuisine, head to Pedro’s House of Lamb. This unassuming takeaway shop specializes in one thing, and they do it exceptionally well: slow-cooked lamb shoulder. The lamb is marinated in a secret blend of spices, then slow-roasted until it’s incredibly tender and flavorful.
The lamb is served with roasted potatoes and a generous drizzle of pan juices. This is comfort food at its finest! Pedro’s House of Lamb offers a simple menu, but the quality of the lamb is exceptional. The price is incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. This place is a local favorite because it delivers incredibly delicious and authentic New Zealand flavors at an affordable price. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable culinary experience.
Flame Bar and Grill
If you’re after some seriously good ribs or steak, head to Flame Bar and Grill on Steamer Wharf. With beautiful views and an excellent menu, this is a must-try. With a wide variety of meals on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Cafes and Brunch Spots
Queenstown has a thriving cafe culture, with numerous establishments offering delicious coffee, brunch dishes, and light meals.
Vudu Cafe & Larder
For a vibrant and bustling cafe experience, head to Vudu Cafe & Larder. This popular cafe offers a wide range of options, from hearty breakfasts and brunches to delicious pastries and cakes. The coffee is excellent, and the atmosphere is always lively.
A standout dish is their eggs benedict, made with locally sourced eggs and a creamy hollandaise sauce. They also have a great selection of salads, sandwiches, and wraps. The price point is moderate, making it a good option for a casual meal or a coffee break. Vudu Cafe & Larder is considered one of the best cafes in Queenstown because of its consistently high quality, its friendly service, and its vibrant atmosphere.
Bespoke Kitchen
If you’re looking for a healthy and sustainable dining option, Bespoke Kitchen is the place to be. This cafe focuses on using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to create delicious and nutritious meals. They offer a range of options, from salads and smoothies to soups and grain bowls.
Their avocado toast is a popular choice, made with organic sourdough bread and topped with fresh avocado, poached egg, and chili flakes. Bespoke Kitchen also has a great selection of vegan and gluten-free options. While slightly pricier than some other cafes, the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail make it worth it. Bespoke Kitchen is unique because of its commitment to sustainability and its focus on healthy and delicious food.
Ferg Baker
If you’re wanting something a little easier to grab and go, head to Ferg Baker. With delicious baked goods and sandwiches, this is a great option for breakfast or lunch on the run. Located right next to Fergburger, this is easy to find.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Queenstown offers plenty of options for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Patagonia Chocolates
For chocolate lovers, Patagonia Chocolates is a must-visit. This artisan chocolate shop offers a wide range of handmade chocolates, truffles, and other confectionery treats. The chocolates are made with high-quality ingredients and are beautifully presented.
A standout is their dark chocolate truffles, which are rich, decadent, and intensely flavorful. Patagonia Chocolates also offers a selection of ice cream and gelato, perfect for a hot day. The price point is a bit higher than your average chocolate shop, but the quality and craftsmanship make it worth it. Patagonia Chocolates is a must-visit because of its commitment to quality, its innovative flavors, and its beautiful presentation.
Mrs. Ferg Gelateria
Located right next door to Fergburger, Mrs. Ferg Gelateria is the perfect place to cool down after indulging in a juicy burger. This gelateria offers a wide range of artisanal gelato flavors, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The queue can be long, but the gelato is worth the wait. The flavors are creative and delicious, and the texture is incredibly smooth and creamy. Try the salted caramel or the hazelnut flavor. While slightly pricey, Mrs. Ferg Gelateria is worth it for the quality of the gelato and the unique flavor combinations.
Cookie Time Cookie Bar
For those after a classic Cookie, head to Cookie Time. With plenty of tasty treats, this is a fan favourite. You can even order a cookie sundae!
Budget-Friendly Options and Quick Bites
Eating out in Queenstown doesn’t have to break the bank. There are several budget-friendly options that offer delicious and satisfying meals.
Devil Burger
While Fergburger often steals the spotlight, Devil Burger offers a comparable burger experience at a slightly lower price point. The burgers are made with high-quality ingredients and are incredibly flavorful.
They offer a range of classic and creative burger options, as well as sides like fries and onion rings. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed. Devil Burger is a great option for those who want a delicious burger without the Fergburger price tag.
Taco Medic
For a quick and tasty meal, head to Taco Medic. This food truck offers authentic Mexican tacos made with fresh ingredients. The tacos are small but flavorful, and the price is incredibly reasonable.
They offer a variety of fillings, including carne asada, carnitas, and vegetarian options. Taco Medic is a great option for a quick lunch or a late-night snack.
Erik’s Fish and Chips
For a classic Kiwi meal, you can’t go wrong with fish and chips. Erik’s Fish and Chips are delicious. It’s a simple but satisfying meal that’s perfect for enjoying by the lake.
Conclusion
Queenstown’s food scene is as diverse and exciting as the landscape that surrounds it. From elegant fine dining experiences to casual eateries and sweet treat havens, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. We have mentioned Amisfield Restaurants with its world class menu and pairing, and the incredible Botswana Butchery. We looked at the classic Queenstown staples such as Fergburger and Pedro’s House of Lamb. And lastly, we explored cafes such as Vudu and some delicious dessert shops.
We encourage you to venture out and explore the culinary delights that Queenstown has to offer. Don’t be afraid to try new things, sample local specialties, and discover hidden gems. Queenstown is more than just an adventure destination; it’s a culinary destination that will leave you wanting more.
What are your favorite Queenstown food spots? Share your recommendations in the comments below! Let’s create a comprehensive guide to the best food in Queenstown together.
