Who else plans their day around their meals? So why not plan your holidays around them too? If you’re heading to the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’, make sure you stop into to the lake-side city of Queenstown for a day or 3 to feast your eyes and your belly on this city’s culinary delights.
While Queenstown is world-famous for its humble Ferg-hamburger, Michellian star, celebrity and internationally acclaimed chefs are also in-town! I know holidays are too short for bad dining experiences so trust my suggestions below and you wont be disappointed.
Breakfast/Bunch
Vudu Cafe and Larder
A few years ago on a previous trip to New Zealand I was reading one of those in-flight magazines and it quoted a celebrity chef saying, “Vudu Cafe has the best coffee in the world.” Well, the secret’s out as this little cafe is jam-packed. Be prepared to queue up to order and wait for a table.
If you want to start the day with something lite, try the organic oat, quinoa and coconut porridge. For something hearty go the grilled halloumi with free range poached eggs and roast pumpkin.
16 Rees St, Queenstown
Mrs Ferg Gelateria
Don’t let the name fool you. While Mrs Ferg, a close relative of the famous Mr Fergburger, is an ice cream shop, it also dishes up delicious, simple breakfasts for those in a rush. If you’re looking to grab a coffee and a freshly baked pastry then this is your spot. If you have a little more time, sit down and try the homemade granola or bircher muesli. They are both served with fresh fruit and yogurt, and homemade with lots of love! #yum
40 Shotover St, Queenstown
The Chop Shop Food Merchants
To get to The Chop Shop for breaky you’ll need to be willing to travel. This quirky, cafe is located a 25 minute drive (or bus ride) from Queenstown in the quaint village of Arrowtown. Located at the foot of the Arrow River and Steep Crown range, Arrowtown is a beautifully restored early gold mining settlement. The Chop Show is tucked away in a lane off Buckingham Street and while it may be hidden it’s certainly very busy. I recommend the Huevos Rancheros but if you’re up for trying some thing different order the Turkish Poached Eggs. They are served with greek yogurt and chilli flakes.
44 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown, Queenstown
Lunch/Dinner
Public Kitchen and Bar
If you want lunch and a view then Public Kitchen is the perfect spot to marvel at Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu and snow-capped Remarkables Mountains. The menu is designed to share so grab your travel buddies and get settled in for the afternoon. If you have a sweet tooth I suggest ordering pavlova!
If you hang around long enough you can enjoy a spectacular sunset over the lake.
Ground Floor, Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, Queenstown
Fergburger
I didn’t go to Ferburger on my most recent trip to New Zealand because since my last visit in 2012, I have become a vegetarian. Judging by the line, it’s still as popular as ever. If you’re vegetarian like me, pop next door to Fergbaker and get yourself some freshly baked goods.
42 Shotover St, Queenstown
Sasso
Because who doesn’t love Italian dining inside a historic cottage built in the 1800’s? Sasso is hearty and cosy and my pick if you’re looking for homemade pizza or pasta. I suggest their beetroot gnocchi.
16 Church St, Queenstown
Fine Dining
Rata
When you mention fine-dining in Queenstown, most people will recommend Rata, a joint venture of Michelin-star chef Josh Emmett and New Zealand MasterChef judge Fleur Caulton.
While the food is exceptional and artfully presented the service was, in my experience, very poor. If you’re prepared for the long wait between courses then my suggestions is to order two portions of Goat Cheese Profiteroles with Rata Blossom Honey starter.
Te Nuku 43 Ballarat St, Queenstown
Amisfield Winery
If it’s good enough for Kate and Wills then it’s certainly on my foodie bucket list. Amisfield Bistro is set amongst its own vines in a beautiful schist stone building with sweeping mountain views. Their “Trust the Chef” menu was my favourite dining experience in New Zealand. Amisfield’s philosophy is to eat seasonally as nature intended. They really practice what they preach growing an estimated 80 per cent of their produce, and farming their own beef and lamb. The 6 course menu is sophisticated, artistic and creative. Trust the chef and you wont be disappointed.
10 Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Rd, Frankton
Sweet Treats
Patagonia Chocolates
Those three magic foods; Chocolate, ice cream and coffee! Patagonia knew the way to my heart, and then they took it to the next level. You can dip your ice cream in chocolate and then coat it in salted caramel popcorn… Need i say more? Just go there!
50 Beach St, Queenstown
Cheers,
Lana