Throughout our 9-day tour in Queenstown, South Island, and the surrounding area, we made it a point to explore a wide range of restaurants, each offering unique cooking methods and flavors. While we had the opportunity to try more establishments than those mentioned below, I would like to share my top restaurants in Queenstown and provide a glimpse of the remarkable culinary offerings in this enchanting town. Please note that the order in which they are listed is random and does not reflect any ranking.
Here are the top restaurants in Queenstown according to my choice.
1. Fergburger
Fergburger is undoubtedly Queenstown’s most famous joint, highly recommended by online reviews and tourists visiting the city. Therefore, our first stop on the food trip in Queenstown was to visit Fergburger, conveniently located in the heart of Queenstown. Despite ongoing roadwork in front of the shop, it attracts a steady stream of customers eagerly queuing for its renowned burgers.
Notably, Fergburger stands out from the surrounding eateries as it is part of a row of four shops, including its sister establishments: the bar, bakery Fergbaker, Ferg’s bar, and ice cream shop Mrs. Ferg, creating a vibrant culinary hub.
The best part is that these interconnected shops allow customers to purchase items from any of them and enjoy their meal inside Fergburger. A glance at the main signboard confirms that the shop has served customers since 2000. With great anticipation, we decided to order their most famous burger, the Gerg Delux. This mouthwatering creation features prime New Zealand beef, streaky bacon, Cheddar cheese, sweet dill pickle, lettuce, tomato, red onion aioli, and tomato relish.
True to its reputation, the burger lived up to its name. It arrived perfectly toasted, with impeccably seared bacon, excellently cooked beef of high quality, a flavorful sauce, and a tangy pickle. Its generous size made it an ideal choice for a satisfying lunch. In addition to the burger, we indulged in some avocado ice cream and coffee from Mrs. Ferg, the neighboring ice cream shop.
Despite the construction happening in front of Fergburger, it did not deter customers from flocking in and joining the burger queue. Luckily, we arrived before the lunch rush and didn’t have to wait too long. However, as we were about to leave, we noticed the queue building up. Whether you prefer dining inside the shop or in the open area in front, ample seating options are available.
Address: 42 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
MON, TUES, WED THURS, SUN – 8 AM-2 AM, FRI & SAT 8 AM-4.30 AM
2. Minus 5 Ice Bar
Situated inside Steamer Wharf in Queenstown, the Minus 5 Ice Bar is a small, unique establishment where the entire bar is kept at a freezing temperature of minus 5 degrees. Upon entering the bar, we were provided with jackets to keep us warm in the chilly environment. The bar is a spacious cold room, but its ice-themed decor sets it apart.
Inside the bar, we encountered a variety of impressive ice sculptures, including the bar counter, tables, and chairs, all meticulously crafted from ice. The novelty also extends to the drinkware, with all the cups made entirely of ice. As expected, the drinks served are refreshingly icy. When we placed our orders, we were kindly reminded to hold the cups with two hands to prevent any slips due to the slippery nature of the ice.
Once we finished our ice mocktails, it was customary to break the ice cups and dispose of them in the designated ice bin. The experience was remarkable, leaving a lasting impression on every visitor thanks to the bar’s special ambiance and distinct atmosphere.
Moreover, the Minus 5 Ice Bar caters to diverse tastes by offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, making it a suitable destination for the entire family.
Address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Mon, Tues, Wed- Closed, Thurs: 4–10 pm, Fri, Sat, Sun: 12-10 pm
3. Tatsumi Japanese Restaurant
For a delectable fusion of Japanese cuisine, look no further than Tatsumi Japanese Restaurant, nestled in Queenstown Mall. Tucked away on the first floor of a charming Chinese discount gift shop, this intimate eatery promises an authentic Japanese dining experience with a unique local twist.
At Tatsumi, you’ll find a delightful array of traditional Japanese dishes, including classic favorites like Miso Soup, Chawanmushi, and Tempura. However, what sets this restaurant apart is its creative incorporation of local flavors. In addition to the traditional fare, we couldn’t resist trying their karaage, which boasted a perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender, succulent chicken. Accompanying our meal was a refreshing Japanese salad, bursting with vibrant colors and a medley of flavors that satisfied us thoroughly.
Address: 9 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Hours: Tues-Sun: 5-9 pm, Mon: closed
4. Cargo at Gantley Pub & Cafe
Cargo at Gantley at Arthur’s Point is just a minute of walk from the famous Onsen Hot Pools, making it the perfect stop to have lunch if you go for a spa at the Osen. There is ample parking beside the cafe.
It is one of the highly-rated eateries at Arthurs Point. The location is perfect, as the bus stop from Queenstown is just opposite of bus stop.
According to the awesome young lady who great us into the hall warmed by the fireplace, the building was converted from an old house, which was then making some extensions to expand into the present size.
Outside the small house is a garden, where you can enjoy the tranquil and beautiful backdrop of the mountains. There are also large barbeque pits, perfect for pairing with beer during winter.
Many of the decorations inside the restaurant are from the old building. There is also a new extension at the other end with a modern design.
We order slow-cooked boar meat, barmy bread, plus coffee and dessert. The food quality was good, and the portion was just perfect for the two of us.
Most of the customers are local, and we can seed them are all familiar with the staff
Address: 172 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand
Hours: Mon-Fri 12-10 pm, Sat-Sun: 10 am-10 pm
5. Public Kitchen and Bar
Located just next to the waterfront, the Public Kitchen & Bar is a semi-fine-dining restaurant with a beautiful lake view.
When we arrived, it was raining, so the open area facing the lake was not open.
We sat inside the restaurant, and it was beautifully decorated. The color combination is vibrant, bold color and design.
There is a bar at the cashier counter, and the kitchen is just behind it.
We ordered two main dishes, including pasta and baked fish, plus a small bite and side order. The food is thoughtfully plated, and the flavor is wonderful. The chefs have meticulously ensured everything detail is being taken care of.
Food price is on average, but we took the opportunity for the off-peak hours’ promotion, so it is value for money.
Address: Steamer Wharf, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 4-10 pm, Fri-Sun: 12-10 pm
6. King Made Noodles Queenstown 金味德牛肉拉面(皇后镇店）
We had lunch at this noodles house next to Village Green.
We order two bowls of noodles to share. One is the dry noodles called 炸酱面, and another is the signature beef noodles soup. We can rate both as average and above, and I would say they offer authentic flavor rather than fusion with the local culinary ingredients and method and cooking.
The staff all speak Mandarin but can converse in English. Also, their noodles are handmade on the spot, and the master noodles makers, likely to be the owner, are making them at the shop front behind the glass panel.
We enjoy watching him pull and stretch the noodles.
Address: 5 Athol Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Hours: 10 am and 10 pm daily
7. Blue Kanu
We had dinner at Blue Kanu, a Polynesian fusion restaurant. It is undoubtedly one of the top restaurants in Queenstown.
Their menu has some Hawaiian words and mainly serves Hawaiian fusion food. For example, the main dishes are Big Kahuna, which means big waves. (And their tagline is FLAVOURS THAT FLOAT YOUR BOAT!)
We ordered the Huli Huli chicken and wok-tossed Asian summer vegetables. Both are of satisfactory flavor and creativity.
The bar and restaurant are decorated with a vibrant vibe and are packed with diners. The service is also good even though it was a full house during our visit.
I recommend this place for dinner, especially if you want to try various food options while staying in Queensland. It will give you a different experience apart from the mainstream restaurant.
Address: 16 Church Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 5 pm – till late
8. Pedro’s By The Lake Restaurant
After an exhilarating 2-hour trek from Sunshine Bay, we finally arrived at the picturesque lakefront of Queenstown. With growling stomachs, we decided to satisfy our appetites at Pedro’s By The Lake Restaurant.
Pedro’s is a delightful Spanish restaurant just a short walk from the Marine Parade. As we settled comfortably into our seats, we couldn’t help but be captivated by the decoration and the breathtaking panoramic views of the lake.
Although the tempting signature whole roast lamb shoulder caught our attention, we ultimately decided against it since it would have been too much for just the two of us. Instead, we chose the Blue Cheese Mushrooms and Pulled Lamb Montaditos, which were excellent choices. The rich and tangy flavors of the blue cheese complemented the earthy mushrooms perfectly, while the tender pulled lamb was an absolute delight.
All in all, Pedro’s By The Lake is a culinary gem that should be included in your itinerary when exploring the food scene in Queenstown.
Pedro’s By The Lake Restaurant
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 3-9 pm, Fri-Sun: 1-9 pm
9. Big Fig, Wanaka
We decided to join a group tour to Wanaka during our stay in Queenstown. Upon reaching the charming town of Wanaka, our tour guide suggested that we visit Big Fig Wanaka for a quick and delightful meal.
Conveniently situated near the waterfront, Big Fig Wanaka is surrounded by a cluster of restaurants. Our guide highly recommended this establishment, emphasizing its quality, affordability, and efficiency.
Big Fig Wanaka offers a buffet line where diners can select three or four items to customize their meal. This flexibility allowed us to curate a plate that perfectly suited our preferences.
One aspect that left a lasting impression on us was the speed of service. Despite the bustling lunchtime rush, the staff at Big Fig Wanaka efficiently served our chosen dishes promptly. This swift service ensured we could make the most of our limited time, allowing us to explore the town further.
The restaurant offers both outdoor and indoor seating options. The outdoor area provided a refreshing ambiance, allowing us to bask in the sunlight. Alternatively, the cozy indoor space emitted a welcoming atmosphere, creating a comfortable setting.
After a satisfying lunch at Big Fig Wanaka, we continued our journey by visiting the captivating beachfront. The combination of excellent food, reasonable prices, and quick service solidified Big Fig Wanaka as our top recommendation for a quick and delicious meal during your visit to Wanaka.
Address: 105 Ardmore Street, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand
Hours: 8 am to 8.30 pm daily
10. Saigon Kingdom Vietnamese restaurant
My dining experience at Saigon Kingdom Vietnamese Restaurant left a lasting impression on me. Stepping into the establishment at Steamer Wharf in Queenstown, I was immediately captivated by the intricate Vietnamese decorations that adorned the interior. The ambiance exuded an authentic Vietnamese feel, setting the stage for a memorable meal.
The menu boasted various Vietnamese dishes, including the iconic Pho, which we decided to order. With the first spoonful, it became apparent that the Saigon Kingdom excelled in serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The broth was flavorful, and the tender meat added a delightful texture. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The only minor aspect is that I preferred a larger portion of basil, as it was served in limited quantities.
Address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Hours: 12-9.30 pm daily
The friendly staff further enhanced our overall dining experience. Their warm and welcoming demeanor added to the enjoyment of our dinner.
I highly recommend including Saigon Kingdom Vietnamese Restaurant on your list of places to visit in Queenstown, especially if you want to savor various delectable dishes.
Here are some additional articles about traveling to Queenstown.
Besides looking for the top restaurants in Queenstown, we also have some useful articles if you plan a trip to Queenstown and the surrounding areas. Our articles include numerous photos and videos that we captured during our trip. To access the related article, simply click on the link provided.
- Queenstown to Glenorchy- scenic drive with a spectacular view
- Doubtful Sound cruise- exploring the wilderness of Fiordland
- Milford Sound Cruise from Queenstown- day trip highlights
- Day trip to Wanaka, Cardrona Hotel, and Crown Range Summit
- Things to do in Arrowtown (and the Chinese settlement) – New Zealand
- Queenstown scenic helicopter flight and alpine landing (full review)
- Million Dollar Cruise – The best and most affordable cruise in Queenstown
- Queenstown Hill Walking Track: The complete walk-through experience
- Queenstown Gardens in New Zealand (things to do)