Queenstown is the ideal place for adventure. The city is happily situated by serene Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps. In between hiking, skiing, or paragliding, be sure to check out the city’s food scene. You’ll find everything from classic comfort food to rare dishes unique to New Zealand.
Pavlova at Public Kitchen & Bar
Those with a sweet tooth will be happy to discover this traditional New Zealand dessert. Fundamental to Pavlova is fluffy meringue that strikes the perfect balance between crunchy and chewy. It is topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream. This tempting dessert is almost as much fun to look at as it is to eat. At Public Kitchen & Bar you can enjoy classic New Zealand fare, such as venison or lamb, and finish your meal with their traditional pavlova.
Flat Whites at Bespoke Kitchen
Silky Flat Whites have a special place in New Zealanders’ hearts. Bespoke Café is the perfect place not only for coffee but also a delicious breakfast. The menu changes seasonally and implements local produce. For those who are not coffee fans, Bespoke also offers a variety of fresh fruit juices.
Slow Roasted Lamb Shoulder at Botswana Butchery
If you are a meat lover, Queenstown has you covered with plenty of options. New Zealand’s pasturelands ensure that high-quality lamb and beef will never be far off. Botswana Butchery specializes in delivering excellently prepared cuts of meat. Equipped with their impressive wine selection, the staff will help you find the perfect pairing. With white linen tablecloths, velvet seat covers, and crackling fires, Botswana perfectly balances comfort with class. There is no wrong choice at Botswana, but you won’t want to miss the slow roasted lamb shoulder.
Fish and Chips at Erik’s Fish & Chips
For classic comfort food, nothing is better than Fish and Chips. Family-owned Erik’s Fish & Chips is a favorite spot for this beloved meal. All fish is locally sourced and gluten-free options are available. As an added bonus, Erik’s is just a short walk from Lake Wanaka.
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream at Patagonia Chocolates
Did you know that New Zealanders consume more ice cream than anywhere in the world? Once you try their ice cream, you’ll understand why. Thanks to New Zealand’s uncompromising dairy products, ice cream is extremely creamy. Award-winning Patagonia Chocolates offers a choice of 20 different ice cream flavors. Make sure to try the hugely popular Hokey Pokey, a vanilla ice cream with chunks of honeycomb toffee. While you are there, be sure to pick up some chocolates for later.
Wine at Amisfield Winery
New Zealand wine has gained some notoriety in recent years making sampling a must for the wine connoisseur. To try some of the area’s finest wines, visit the Amisfield Winery. The Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc are especially noteworthy. For the complete experience select the “trust the chef” option at the winery’s Bistro. You’ll receive a multi-course meal perfectly matched with several wines.
The Fergburger at Fergburger
Ask anyone and they will tell you that Fergburger is the place to grab a burger in Queenstown. A trip to Queenstown is not complete without a visit to this legendary burger joint. Using only premium ingredients, Fergburger has mastered the secret to the perfect burger. There will be lines, but it is worth the wait!
Craft Beer at Smiths Craft Beer House
The craft beer scene is thriving in New Zealand. To sample some of New Zealand’s best, look no farther than Smiths Craft Beer House. Staff is extremely knowledge and even their menu will give you a short lesson on the basics of beer. They keep a huge selection of craft beers on tap and their food is quite good as well. Try their award-winning “Short Rib Burger” along with a cold beer.
Hawker Rolls at Madam Woo
One exciting thing about Queenstown’s food scene is the fusion of flavors from around the world. The Asian influence is strong in Queenstown and one excellent choice is the Malaysian-inspired Madam Woo. Their famous Hawker Rolls are a must, but the dumplings are also quite good.
Green-lipped Mussels at Fishbone Bar & Grill
Don’t miss Queenstown’s unique seafood offering at the Fishbone Bar & Grill. Under the careful guidance of brilliant chef Darren Lovell, all seafood is fresh and masterfully prepared. Try the Bream Bay Scallops as well as the Green-Lipped Mussels. This variety of mussels is unique to New Zealand’s shores and are softer and sweeter than the typical blue-lipped variety.
The comfortable and rustic feel of Queenstown’s restaurants and bars are the perfect complement to New Zealand’s stunning beauty. The hearty and thoughtful dishes of the city’s eateries provide the perfect end to a day of exploring.
Whether you’re planning a corporate meeting in Queenstown or considering a travel incentive to New Zealand, contact Gavel International.
