One of the (many) great things about Queenstown is the next-level food and wine scene. It’s a foodie nirvana with over 150 bars and restaurants and multi-cultural, cosmopolitan dining offerings that rival much bigger cities.
For wine lovers, Queenstown is the gateway to the vineyards of Central Otago, with Gibbston, the valley of the vines, just 20 minutes away. Make sure you factor a wine experience into your stay, whether it’s a bike tour of the wineries, or simply a stop off in one of the region’s welcoming cellar doors to sample a tasting flight shaped by our distinct alpine seasons and dramatic terroir.
While you’re here, don’t miss the chance to explore the growing craft beer scene, and sip a glass or two of gin imbued with local botanicals and fruit.
Check out this rundown of recent new restaurant openings in Queenstown where you'll find some of the best places to eat in Queenstown.
ITALIAN WAY
Queenstown Marina Shed #10
Now at their permanent home at the Queenstown Marina, grab your daily dose of wood-fired pizza, perfectly paired with cold beers and remarkable views.
DISHERY
4 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown 9302
Dishery is a local favourite for relaxed, flavour-forward dining in the heart of Arrowtown. With a menu rooted in fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold, creative flavours, it’s the kind of place where good food and good company come together naturally.
Expect all day brunch, strong cocktails and DJs to keep the good vibes going.
Pavilion Bar & Kitchens
Building E/19 Grant Road, Frankton, Queenstown 9300
Pavilion is a bar and kitchens concept that celebrates social dining, delectable food, and the simple joy of gathering around a table. Led by renowned chef Sean Connolly, Pavilion delivers international quality with local touches, expect crisp mountain air paired with unforgettable fare and fresh local ingredients.
Swiftsure
Above Buckingham Green, Arrow Lane
Swiftsure by Man O' War is a relaxed yet refined Arrowtown bistro offering seasonal South Island dishes and wines from its origins in Waiheke to Bannockburn. Whether you're after a long lunch, golden hour wine, or a cosy evening with a wagyu burger by the fire - they've got you covered for après adventures in Arrowtown.
Walter's Tavern
41 Ballarat Street, Queenstown
Hearty pub meals, stacked burgers and seasonal favourites are a common theme at Walter's Tavern. Catch all the action with live sport on the big screens, attend a quiz night, dine in their restaurant mezzanine or catch up with friends for an aprés ski pint in the covered deck.
Ayrburn
1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown
The Ayrburn dining precinct opened at the end of 2023. A historic farm homestead and outbuildings have been converted into a rustic-luxe dining hub where the restored Mill Creek runs through grounds with mature trees, veggie gardens, meticulously tended flower beds and a vineyard. It’s very much a destination to linger a while.
The Woolshed restaurant offers classic bistro fare. Executive Chef, Richard Highnam, from local stalwart Botswana Butchery, designed the menus with the Ayrburn team. The Manure Room serves tapas, platters, and the chance to try Ayrburn’s own wines while the Burr Bar mixes garden-themed cocktails. Or, grab a freshly made gelato at the Dairy and sit outdoors.
The Bakehouse joined the scene in late 2024, with a refined yet casual setting designed to bring people together over delicious food, whether in person or at home. The menu caters to breakfast, lunch and dinner, and everything in between where coffee, pastries, wood-fired pizzas and hand-made pasta are just some of the daily offerings. View the takeaway menu online here.
The latest addition to Ayrburn, Billy’s is a tribute to the past and a celebration of the now. Expect a modern Chinese dining experience, whilst honouring Arrowtown’s deep connection to Chinese heritage. Under the direction of Executive Chef Richard Highnam, the culinary team have refined interpretations of classic chinese dishes using bold flavours and fresh local ingredients. The menu is designed for sharing so gather your mates and book a table in the bespoke glass conservatory. Book your table here.
Ayrburn makes getting there easy, with affordable buses from Queenstown or Arrowtown or a door-to-door shuttle. The dining hub is connected to the major cycle trail that runs between Queenstown and Arrowtown, and there are also EV charging stations on site.
Bianca by Giovi
4/14 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown
Located in the heart of Arrowtown on historic Buckingham Street, Bianca by Giovi is the perfect spot to savour a true taste of Italy. Bianca continues the legacy of Giovi's venues, offering the same beloved authentic Italian dishes crafted with care, tradition, and only the finest ingredients. Check out the menu and book online here.
Share Your Favourite Queenstown Food Experiences
Enjoy eating your way around these new Queenstown restaurants. We love to hear from contented foodies, so share your Queenstown food adventures with us on social.
