Stories
Stories about eating and drinking around Queenstown: where locals go for breakfast, the wineries of Gibbston and the people behind the food.
Queenstown food and drink stories
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Where to Have a Winery Lunch in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
The world's southernmost wine region is only a short drive from Queenstown. Explore local vintages and enjoy the quintessential Queenstown experience of a leisurely winery lunch among the vines.
Read moreDiscover Queenstown's MICHELIN Guide Restaurants
By Queenstown, NZ
New Zealand was listed in the MICHELIN Guide for the first time in 2026, and Queenstown is a standout destination. Our local restaurants were awarded four MICHELIN Stars and three Bib Gourmands, while 12 other eateries were MICHELIN Selected. Most exciting, New Zealand’s only Two-Star MICHELIN restaurant is right here in the heart of town.
Read moreHow to Make the Most of a Winter Evening in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown winter evenings are electric. The snowclad peaks fade into twilight and a blanket of stars takes their place. Then the buzz of après ski fills the town, lights reflecting on the lake, music and laughter rising into the clear, crisp alpine air as people duck in from the cold to a warm Queenstown welcome and the comfort of a roaring fire.
Read moreQueenstown Craft Beer Scene: 6 Local Breweries to Discover
By Queenstown, NZ
The craft beer scene in Queenstown has grown over the last few years and beer aficionados are now spoilt for choice. Here are some of the best breweries in Queenstown and where you can find them.
Read moreExplore Queenstown Marina
By Queenstown, NZ
Tucked away on the lakeside on the way to Frankton, Queenstown Marina is a vibrant little precinct with a distinctly local blend of boutique hospitality, lifestyle, and adventure - all housed in brightly coloured boatsheds.
Read moreA Local's Guide to the Queenstown Markets
By Queenstown, NZ
More than a spot to shop (although they’re excellent for that too), Queenstown’s local markets are where you’ll discover seasonal flavours, meet passionate local makers, connect with the community, and soak up the rhythm of the region. They’re the beating heart of our creative spirit.
Read moreBest Places for Dinner in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
One of the best ways to connect with the soul of a place is through its food and wine. Queenstown’s ever-evolving dining scene is a vibrant reflection of its people, its produce, and the spectacular landscape that surrounds it. From bold, local flavours to innovative menus crafted by celebrated chefs, Queenstown invites you to slow down, savour the moment, and enjoy a true taste of place.
Read morePostmasters Kitchen + Bar: Keeping It Real
By Queenstown, NZ
Tuesdays at Postmasters Kitchen + Bar in Arrowtown are known as “maintenance days.” It’s when owner Sam Laycock loads up the week’s kitchen compost and takes it home to his own bins, giving it a second life in the garden. It’s a quiet ritual Sam’s been following since he and his wife Maria took over the historic property in 2013, and it says a lot about how they run their business. No fuss, no fancy titles, just thoughtful decisions that are right for the team, their guests, and the planet.
Read moreWānaka Après Ski Spots
By Queenstown, NZ
After carving up the slopes, it's time to kick back. Discover the best of Wānaka’s bars, restaurants, and social spots with our curated guide to the town’s cosy yet vibrant après ski scene.
Read moreBrewing a New Future: Ryder Specialty Coffee
By Queenstown, NZ
Ryder Specialty Coffee is setting a new standard for sustainable coffee roasting, embracing innovative technology and local connections.
Read moreEat Your Way Around the World in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
World-class chefs. Tick. Delicious seasonal produce. Tick. Spectacular views from your table. Tick. But that’s not all eating in Queenstown has to offer… The Queenstown food scene is cosmopolitan and multi-cultural, with flavours from all around the world.
Read moreThe Best Breakfasts in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
In order to eat your way around all the exceptional breakfast options on offer in Queenstown, you’re going to have to stay for at least two weeks.
Read moreYour Arrowtown Food Guide
By Queenstown, NZ
Eating out in Arrowtown is a must-do when visiting Queenstown. Plan your culinary adventure with our guide to places to eat in Arrowtown: the best cafés and restaurants, and bars with tasty bites.
Read more12 Best Brunch Spots in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Nothing beats a lazy breakfast or brunch when you’re on holiday. You need a good meal to fuel a day of adventure ahead. Here’s your guide to the best brunch spots and cafes in Queenstown.
Read moreBest Bakeries in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Are you looking for a tasty quick bite between adventures? Do you arrive in a new place and immediately start thinking about where you’re going to get your delicious baked goods fix? Us too.. We’ve got you sorted for Queenstown’s best pastries, pies, and petit fours.
Read moreA Winemakers Guide to Queenstown: Chris Keys Shares his Favourite Local Pinot Noirs
By Queenstown, NZ
Autumn is the best time to visit the world’s southernmost wine region. Queenstown is a renowned wine and food destination, celebrated globally for its Pinot Noir. It’s the gateway to hundreds of Central Otago vineyards, with the closest wine region, Gibbston, just 20 minutes away.
Read moreHistoric Eateries In Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown’s historic eateries include gold rush hotels from the 1860s, an Edwardian Bathhouse, and old cottages converted into snug bistros. The stories of these buildings, and their transformation into places to enjoy local flavours and hospitality, are connected to the history of this region.
Read moreAutumn Food Experiences in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Autumn is a wonderful season to visit Queenstown. Local produce is abundant, days are often warm and settled, while the low, golden light sets off the breathtaking autumn landscape at its absolute best. It’s a season for sensory indulgence and unforgettable culinary experiences.
Read moreFine Dining in Queenstown, a Roundup of the Best Restaurants in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown is a foodie’s paradise , with some of the best restaurants and dining experiences in New Zealand. Here’s a roundup of top fine dining restaurants to eat in when you visit Queenstown.
Read moreQueenstown’s Dog-Friendly Cafés, Bars & Places to Stay
By Queenstown, NZ
Dogs are part of the family, so they deserve to come on holiday too. We’ve got your furry friend covered with this guide to Queenstown’s dog-friendly eateries, bars, and accommodation.
Read moreWhat’s New in Arrowtown
By Queenstown, NZ
Arrowtown’s vibrant hub of things to see, do and taste has become even more unmissable with a line-up of new dining and drinking experiences and boutiques. Jump on the bus to Arrowtown for a leisurely day exploring these new local highlights.
Read more10 Cosy Bars in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Open fires, mulled wine, and hearty menus. Your guide to the best places to stay warm this winter with ten of Queenstown’s most cosy bars.
Read moreAprès-Ski: Ways to Relax After a Day on The Mountain
By Queenstown, NZ
Cosy wine bars, friendly pubs, and buzzing nightclubs make Queenstown's après-ski offering the perfect end to a day on the slopes.
Read moreWhere to Eat With Kids in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Every parent knows all family adventures begin and end with satisfied stomachs. Queenstown is known for its excellent food offering, and there is plenty on offer for families of all ages, stages, and tastes.
Read moreWhat’s New On the Menu? New Restaurants in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
No matter how many times you’ve visited Queenstown, there’s always something delicious to discover. Plan your dining itinerary with this guide to the newest Queenstown restaurants.
Read moreGuide to Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
With seasonal masterpieces from celebrated chefs, incredible fresh produce, indulgent treats, and rich ethnic dishes, vegan and vegetarian delights are everywhere in Queenstown.
Read moreSit, Borrow, or BYO – It’s Easy to go Single-Use Cup Free in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
We’ve made finding a proper cuppa even easier with this guide to good places serving up great coffee, waste-free.
Read moreA Wine and Food Lover’s Guide to Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
If you’re a wine-lover or a foodie, there’s no doubt you’re itching to discover both our world-renowned culinary experiences and the hidden gems that locals love.
Read moreAward-Winning Coal Pit Vineyard Becomes Fully Certified Organic
By Queenstown, NZ
Coal Pit Vineyard and Winery, in the heart of Gibbston Valley, has reached a significant milestone in its journey towards regenerative farming, having recently been fully organic certified.
Read moreThe Best Coffee in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
If you need to fuel an adventure or want to enjoy a relaxed coffee and treat with a view, here's your guide to some of the best, locally-loved coffee spots in central Queenstown.
Read more6 Immersive Food and Beverage Experiences in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown is a purveyor of the extraordinary and its wine, craft beer and gourmet food offerings are no different. There’s plenty of unique culinary adventures to immerse yourself in here.
Read moreYour Guide to the Best Frankton Restaurants
By Queenstown, NZ
Hungry? Whether you’re looking for cosmopolitan vibes, family-friendly restaurants or the best BBQ place in town, Frankton has you covered.
Read more20 Years of Big Hearts and Full Bellies at Queenstown’s Pasta Café
By Queenstown, NZ
For up to six weeks every winter, a group of local volunteers get together on a Friday to cook up and serve hearty pasta dishes and plates heaped with home baking. They then open the doors to Queenstown’s ‘Pasta Café’, and welcome the crowds for a delicious meal that’s always on the house.
Read moreCheap Eats in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Dining out on a budget? Check out these tasty restaurants, dining and takeaway cheap eats in Queenstown, that won’t break the bank.
Read moreArrowtown Breakfast Spots
By Queenstown, NZ
There’s lots to see and do in Arrowtown but first, you’re going to need a good brunch. Breakfast in style in Arrowtown with this guide to the best places to enjoy your first meal of the day.
Read moreSherwood: Garden to Table
By Dish Magazine
Dish chats to Chris Scott, executive chef at Queenstown's Sherwood hotel and restaurant, about the delights of cooking with produce straight from the soil.
Read moreMeet the Chefs Behind Some of Queenstown's Top Restaurants
By Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown has been a magnet for top chefs for decades, each drawn to the region for its lifestyle opportunities and lively hospitality scene. Meet the chefs behind some of Queenstown's top fine dining restaurants and learn why these restaurants have put Queenstown on the map.
Read moreBest Queenstown Lunch Spots
By Queenstown, NZ
Looking for lunch in Queenstown? Begone midday munchies with this guide to local lunch spots with good food and glorious views. We’ve got you covered for the best places to eat lunch in Queenstown, Frankton, Arrowtown, Glenorchy and Gibbston. Bon Appetit!
Read moreTop Places For a Lakeside Drink in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
It’s cocktail hour and you’d like to pull up a chair and enjoy the view. Well, you’ve come to the right place with this round up of ten top places to enjoy a drink on the waterfront in Queenstown.
Read moreA Wine Connoisseur’s Guide to Central Otago Wineries
By Queenstown, NZ
Meet Candice Chow. Wine reviewer and renowned sommelier, Candice shares her favourite local wineries, varietals, and wine shops. Here's your guide to experiencing some of Central Otago’s best wineries.
Read moreDine With a View in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown really does have it all. Dine gazing out at vineyards, lakes, rivers, and mountains with our guide to Queenstown restaurants with a view.
Read moreThe Story of Queenstown Wine
By Queenstown, NZ
Brimming with colourful characters achieving improbable goals, the story of Central Otago’s wine industry starts with the gold rushes of the 1860s.
Read more72 Food-Filled Hours in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
This vibrant town has an international and cosmopolitan offering, with something to tantalise all tastes. Here’s how to turn a long weekend into a gastronomic adventure, with some of the best food in Queenstown.
Read moreMeet Our Winemakers
By Queenstown, NZ
With its sterling reputation and astounding beauty, the ‘Valley of the Vines’ attracts passionate viticulturists and winemakers from all over the country and abroad. We caught up with three Gibbston winemakers to talk about what brought them here and, perhaps more importantly, what makes them stay.
Read moreEat, Drink and Shop Local in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
From organic produce that you can buy directly from the grower to wines straight from the cellar door, here are the top ways to get to know Queenstown's creative community and pick up a few goodies along the way.
Read moreQuick Bites and Where to Eat Them
By Queenstown, NZ
If you're looking for a quick bite between activities, or a packed lunch before hitting the slopes, grab something to go at one of these great eateries.
Read moreAl Fresco Dining Around Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
With our spectacular alpine vistas, long warm summers, and world-famous food scene, Queenstown is made for eating al fresco. Find some of the best places to eat outdoors, with these top picks for alfresco dining in and around Queenstown.
Read moreA Queenstown Food Adventure
By Queenstown, NZ
Discover Queenstown’s celebrated food and wine scene with a round-up of delicious ideas for a Queenstown food adventure.
Read moreBike the Wineries in Gibbston
By Queenstown, NZ
The Gibbston River Bike Trail winds through the Gibbston wine growing region. You’ll pass cellar doors and stunning vistas over the Kawarau River and the surrounding ranges. Explore the region, its wineries, eateries and historic sites. Find out how you can get there by bike and plan your Gibbston biking adventure.
Read moreExploring Gibbston's Wineries and Cellar Doors
By Queenstown, NZ
A topline guide for what to expect at Gibbston's wineries and cellar doors.
Read moreBiodiversity, Sustainability and The Chef's Garden at Gibbston Valley Winery
By Queenstown, NZ
In 2014, Gibbston Valley Winery made their first step towards a more environmentally friendly future in having the original Home Block vineyard certified organic by BioGro New Zealand. Since then, the winery has continued to grow their efforts in environmentalism, sustainability and biodiversity across their vineyard, restaurant, and now their on-site luxury lodge and spa.
Read morePrivate Dining in Queenstown
By Queenstown, NZ
Indulge in Queenstown's sophisticated private dining scene, where bespoke experiences are crafted for small groups and VIP gatherings. Discover exclusive venues paired with world-class cuisine and wine, creating unforgettable moments in breathtaking settings.
Read moreA Bunch of Ways to Tour Queenstown Wineries
By Queenstown, NZ
Hop on a shuttle, bike around the vines, or go on a guided wine tour – there’s all sorts of ways to taste the terroir, and plenty more to eat, see and do along the way.
Read moreFamous Cocktails and Where to Find Them
By Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown is known far and wide for its super fun nightlife. The compact town centre makes it easy to explore different bars and find your favourite cocktails. Here are some great places to try downtown and beyond.
Read moreThe Bustle of Queenstown's Wine Harvest
By Queenstown, NZ
The next time you crack open a good bottle of Central Otago wine, imagine all the skill and hard graft that went into creating it, from planting the vines, to the frantic harvest period during autumn.
Read moreQueenstown Q&A: Alan Brady, Winemaker
By Queenstown, NZ
Alan Brady planted some of the first wine grapes around Queenstown, creating Gibbston Valley Winery in the early 1980s. After living half of his life in the valley, he moved to Clyde to retire in 2016, but keeps his hand in producing wine under his coveted Wild Irishman label.
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