The Southern Alps and Fiordland Restaurants

Queenstown, as the main regional resort, has the widest range of restaurants. Throughout the area, menus focus on local produce, seafood, lamb, and venison. Wine lists often highlight South Island wines, especially those from Central Otago and Gibbston Valley. Cafés and restaurants driven by the summer tourist trade shorten their hours in winter. Dress standards are generally relaxed, with jeans or khakis acceptable almost everywhere. At high-end places, particularly in Queenstown, you'll need to reserve a table at least a day in advance.

Outside of Queenstown and Wanaka dining options can be limited. In summer, meals of some sort are available almost everywhere, but outside the high season, there are fewer options in the smaller settlements and they don’t tend to stay open late.

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  • 1. Jervois Steak House

    $$$$

    Dine here and find out why New Zealand is so proud of its beef and lamb: you could take it to the next level with the Wagyu beef, but honestly it's hard to beat the standard Jervois fillet, with onion rings on the side and delicious sauces. Steak is the undisputed hero here, but like the great American steak houses on which Jervois models itself, there's fabulous seafood too, and even a quality vegetarian menu. Warm, interesting decor, and welcoming, knowledgeable staff (they'll bring cuts of meat to your table to show what you're getting) ensure this place delivers a memorable night. If you can't do dinner, try lunch.

    8 Duke St., Queenstown, Otago, 9300, New Zealand
    03-442–6263

    Known For

    • Pricey cuts of beef
    • Extremely knowledgeable staff
    • Elegant steak-house atmosphere

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Reservations essential
  • 2. Fergburger

    $$

    A Queenstown institution, the famous Fergburger gets mentioned in media around the world. It began life as a burger bar serving from a hole in the wall and kept growing; now there's a permanent queue stretching outside. If you're not too hungry, but want to know what the fuss is about, just share one—they're big enough for two.

    42 Shotover St., Queenstown, Otago, 9300, New Zealand
    03-441–1232

    Known For

    • Enormous and legendary burgers
    • Late-night dining
    • Long lines at lunch
  • 3. Ivy & Lola's Kitchen & Bar

    $$$$

    Feast your eyes on a collection of relics from the 1940s to '60s, right down to the mismatched crockery, and enjoy good food, great service, and a lovely atmosphere. The cuisine here is a delightfully eclectic mix, with flavors from New Zealand and around the world. Try the bacon-wrapped monkfish or the pork duo, either of which will satisfy any cravings. Save room for dessert, or for a delightful finish to your evening ask for an espresso martini.

    88 Beech St., Queenstown, Otago, 9300, New Zealand
    03-441–8572

    Known For

    • Excellent lamb of the day
    • Generous portions
    • Lakeside dining
  • 4. Pier 19 Restaurant

    $$$$ | New Zealand

    This bright and breezy eatery beside the lake on Steamer Wharf has picture-postcard views. In summer, if you don't mind being on display, sit outside for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner (and they'll make sure you're well looked after, with a hat and/or a blanket). Inside, it's cozy with a lovely atmosphere and friendly waitstaff. The regularly changing menu is fresh with regional tastes such as Pacific tuna nicoise salad, Stewart Island salmon, and Fiordland venison. If you're feeling adventurous, consider the Seafood Platter for two.

    Steamer Wharf, Queenstown, Otago, 9300, New Zealand
    03-442–4006
  • 5. The Bathhouse

    $$$

    Built to commemorate the coronation of King George V, this early 1900s bathhouse on the beach now turns out breakfast, lunch, fresh scones, tapas, and dinner from its tiny kitchen. Many people find it by accident as they walk to the Queenstown Gardens, but it's worth seeking out deliberately.

    38 Marine Parade, Queenstown, Otago, 9300, New Zealand
    03-442–5625

    Known For

    • Unbeatable location
    • Log fire in winter
    • Some of the best staff in town
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

  • 6. The Bunker

    $$$$

    A loungey vibe with log fires, leather armchairs, and an impressive wine list make the Bunker a particularly cozy dining location. Dinner is an all-night affair, especially if you continue with drinks in their upstairs bar; there's even a special Taste of the South degustation menu if you really want to indulge.

    14 Cow La., Queenstown, Otago, 9300, New Zealand
    03-441–8030

    Known For

    • Late-night hotspot
    • Excellent wine pairings
    • James Bond-esque vibe

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Reservations essential
  • 7. Vudu Cafe

    $$

    You'll be fighting the locals for a breakfast seat at this Queenstown institution, thanks to its lakefront seating and delicious array of counter food. Eggs Benedict with a classic coffee is probably the most common breakfast order in New Zealand, and this is perhaps the best in the area. The rest of the seasonal menu is full of fresh and local produce.

    16 Rees St., Queenstown, Otago, 9300, New Zealand
    03-441–8370

    Known For

    • Big breakfast crowds
    • Coffee to go (and enjoy by the lake)
    • Healthy options

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner, Reservations not accepted
  • 8. Winnie's

    $$$

    This is a long-standing local favorite restaurant and bar, with a winning combination of excellent pizza, pool tables, and beer. At night it becomes a happening spot with DJs and dancing, and it's extremely popular with backpackers. Try and get a table on the balcony overlooking the mall.

    Mall St., Queenstown, Otago, 9300, New Zealand
    03-442–8635

    Known For

    • Late-night parties
    • Retractable roof
    • Warm winter hideout
  • 9. Yonder

    $$$

    In a lovely old cottage in the middle of town, Yonder has outdoor seating in front; a café-style area in the middle; and, finally, a restaurant, bar, and live venue in the rear. The menu is inspired by the countries of origin of the chefs, and it changes to match the seasons and what's fresh.

    14 Church St., Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
    03-409–0994

    Known For

    • Eclectic global menu
    • Friendly to those with dietary restrictions
    • Bright, welcoming atmosphere

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner Mon. and Tues.

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