The Best Restaurants in Queenstown  

While Queenstown is renowned as New Zealand’s adventure hotspot, it also rivals Wellington for the title of culinary capital. 

From fine dining with views of Lake Wakatipu to cosy date-night hideaways in the heart of town, Queenstown’s best restaurants are as diverse and stunning as the landscape itself. 

Scroll down for the best restaurants in Queenstown.

The best restaurants in Queenstown for a date night    

Aosta  

Arrive in Arrowtown, step through the grand doors of Aosta’s shed-like exterior and be whisked away by Northern Italy’s rustic charm. Expect delicate handmade pasta, cocktails with large Aosta-imprinted ice cubes and plates showcasing the best of Central Otago’s produce, including fresh native paua (sea snails).  

Botswana Butchery 

Sultry and sophisticated, Botswana Butchery inhabits a quaint cottage, boasting spectacular lake views. Local wines accompany premium cuts of meat, while a fireplace and plush chaise lounges set the ambience.  

Tamarind by No.5 Church Lane 

Bold flavours and banquette-style dining await at Tamarind by No.5 Church Lane. Serving up reimagined Indian African cuisine, expect share plates like vetkoek (fried bread) with Durban lamb curry and cumin potatoes with confit garlic, paired with carefully curated cocktails. 

Rātā 

Sustainably sourced ingredients from the South Island are at the helm of Rātā’s dining experience. Continue your travels around New Zealand – without having to leave your seat at the table – grazing dishes of Ruakākā kingfish, Marlborough oysters and Lake Ōhau wagyu eye fillet. 

The best restaurants in Queenstown with views   

Nest Kitchen & Bar 

Go for the food and stay for the views at Nest Kitchen & Bar. The highest-altitude restaurant in Queenstown, this fine dining venue boasts a backdrop of turquoise waters and white-capped slopes. Serving modern takes on classics, expect market fish with conflict potato, braised lamb shank and burnt cauliflower with a blue cheese crumb.  

Sherwood  

Nestled within three acres of rolling hills, Sherwood has a farm-to-plate mentality, complete with its own vegetable garden. The menu evolves with the seasons, and each meticulously crafted plate features the colours of the rainbow. The restaurant is just one part of Sherwood’s greater secluded sanctuary, which includes a wellness centre, accommodation and community events.  

Boardwalk  

Located in the Steamer Wharf dining district, Boardwalk is a weatherboard, light-flooded, upscaled bistro on the water’s edge. At Boardwalk, you can enjoy prawn linguine and premium bubbles while being just steps away from Lake Wakatipu. 

Amisfield  

This pocket of alpine elegance doubles as an award-winning vineyard and three-hatted restaurant, making it the perfect place to spend a slow afternoon. Led by renowned chef Vaughan Mabee, dishes are experimental and nod to the wild lands of Central Otago.  

The Grille by Eichardt’s 

Somewhere between a French brasserie and a New York bistro, The Grille By Eichardt’s is another ultra-chic restaurant claiming prime real estate on Queenstown’s waterfront. The day-to-night eatery is a sister venue of chateau-like accommodation Eichardt’s Private Hotel – a popular wedding destination in the region.  

The best casual restaurants in Queenstown   

Fergburger 

Specialising in the hand-held stack, Fergburger has reached cult status in Queenstown. Its decadently layered burgers have made a splash on social media, often photographed in front of Queenstown’s picture-perfect alpines. With sides of onion rings and thick shakes, Fergburger is bound to deliver post-ski and adventure satisfaction.  

Odd Saint 

Equal parts nourishing and naughty, Odd Saint is Queenstown’s hotspot for brunch and bubbles. Any hangover can be cured with its smashed avocado toast and grilled halloumi, washed down with a mimosa or perfectly poured coffee.  

Tanoski  

This authentic Japanese eatery has cemented itself as a local favourite. Share plates, chewy noodles and teppan-grilled ingredients are the cornerstones of the tapas-style menu, complemented by an abundance of Japanese sake, whisky and lagers. 

Flame 

There’s no need to pull up Google Maps to find Flame, just let the smokey aroma lead the way. Taking influence from South African open grill BBQ, the eatery serves some of the best ribs in town. While its meat reigns supreme, Flame’s seafood, seasonal salads and burgers make this restaurant the ultimate crowd-pleaser. 

The best restaurants in Queenstown for a special occasion 

Blue Kanu    

Blue Kanu offers a unique blend of Asian and Pacific Island cuisines, with a menu rich in seafood, exotic fruits and Asian spices. Neon lights and bamboo finishes will put you in holiday mode from the moment you take a seat.  

Margo’s    

Your first time saying hola to Margo’s won’t be your last. Salted-rimmed glasses, finger-licking bites and sombrero hats abound at this modern Mexican venue. The perfect first stop on a night out in Queenstown, Margo’s menu is best shared.    

The Bunker  

This speakeasy-style restaurant and cocktail bar is nothing short of swanky. Start the night savouring rustic fine dining that leans heavily on local produce. Later, head upstairs to sip top-shelf cocktails, next to the fireplace, accompanied by a live DJ spinning house music.