It’s about time we set our eyes on the best of New Zealand, starting with beautiful Queenstown! Tucked away amidst the snowy mountains and home to the large, luminous Lake Wakatipu, South Island is truly a gem – certainly a hidden one at that.
But if there’s one thing this list proves, it’s that there is more to this city than stunning shore to peak views. In 2024, there is no shortage of world-class dining experiences here, from stellar fine dining in a sustainable hotel to warm nights out by the pizza oven. Add these venues to your Queenstown list to book right now.
1. Blue Kanu
For soulful nights out in Queenstown, this locale is non-negotiable. Expect tapas that flaunt flavours of the pacific, the Hula hut style bar ready with cheery cocktails alongside the unmistakable warmth of a welcoming team.
2. Boardwalk
For those sunny days when the weather beckons you outdoors— we have Boardwalk in our books for a laidback meal in historic Steamer Wharf. Beautiful starters like creamy white wine mussels, chowder and crab cakes lead this menu, as well as your heartier steak and fish and chips options for mains.
3. Soda
The first thing you will notice at Soda Queenstown is certainly the magical lakeside views, but it’s followed very closely by their modern take on Mediterranean cuisine. Start off with a fire-roasted bread featuring terra sancta olive oil, then dive right into the iconic seafood paella.
4. Mora
A welcome addition to the wine and dine list — Mora’s best hits out in the vineyard. Step into these cellar doors for dukkah-kissed halloumi, cauliflower arancini and braised short ribs with a curated glass of Pinot Noir to boot. This is one locale to linger on at way past lunch hour.
5. Bella Cucina
Wood-fired pizzas and hearty pastas are a staple at Bella Cucina, but this authentic Italian kitchen that’s had its doors open since 2008 offers so much more. Tucked in the charming Brecon Street Dining precinct, this is a location to book whether it’s a classic date night or an easy solo meal you’re out for
6. Nest Kitchen & Bar
Nest sports some of the best in the picturesque department, alongside a stellar degustation experience. Chimichurri glazed lamb rack and bluff octopus carpaccio are paired with luscious cocktails matched only by the awe-inspiring art deco-style space.
7. Winnie's
The family-friendly menu at Winnie’s has got something from everyone, from nachos, salad and buffalo wings to every pizza topping you can dream up. Top that off with the team’s famously warm hospitality, and it’s a night out!
8. Sherwood
Inside what’s deemed the most sustainable hotel in New Zealand, the two-hatted restaurant and bar delivers a different yet delicious kind of win. Sherwood Hotel gets our vote for Chef Chris Scott at the helm, dishing luminous plates featuring the freshest produce off their vegetable gardens and sustainable grocers. Another secret at Sherwood? Local wine and beer from the tap, bottled on the spot.
9. Kika
This #WorldsBest50 Discovery honouree Kika bookends our Queenstown spotlight with a bang. The dining room overlooks a creek in snowcapped Wanaka and the contemporary fare is simply sublime — think lemon arlette with yuzu yoghurt, blood orange hollandaise with salmon and hasselback celeriac with a blend of truffle and nashi pear. These punchy flavours are meant for sharing, so grab your mates and book a table!
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