The Queenstown region is renowned for its vast, natural landscapes. The views of dramatic mountains and glacial waters can be seen from the plane window while descending to the tarmac, setting the tone for a visual feast of nature at its best.
The unique landscape of the Queenstown Lakes region has shaped its food and beverage culture and is home to some of the best restaurant and food experiences in New Zealand. You will not only be able to feast your tastebuds on kiwi fare and international cuisines but also feast your eyes on the most remarkable scenery around.
There are some of the world’s southernmost vineyards here alongside a vast array of restaurants inspired by cuisines from around the world and culinary experiences boasting a long list of accolades.
Looking for Queenstown food with a view? Discover the true meaning of destination dining and book a table at one of these iconic locations.
Nest Kitchen & Bar at Kamana Lakehouse
For accessible, contemporary dining, make a beeline for Nest Kitchen & Bar located at Kamana Lakehouse. The art deco style restaurant and bar features floor to ceiling windows to take in the awe-inspiring views down to Lake Whakatipu. The restaurant celebrates the local Central Otago environment with delicious, foraged herbs, seeds and wild ingredients all sourced by local farmers, growers and fisherman. Hosting a unique and large selection of New Zealand gins and Central Otago wines, Nest Kitchen & Bar encompasses all the best things about Queenstown and the region.
Read: Where to stay, play and eat in Queenstown
Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Dining is about a journey and visiting Kinloch Wilderness Retreat just outside of Queenstown is one of those experiences. Take the scenic drive to Glenorchy before hopping on a vehicle transfer over to Kinloch, New Zealand’s smallest township. Here at the head of Lake Whakatipu and the Dart River, enjoy honest local food on the terrace with views out to the Southern Alps. If you’re after a picnic experience, make use of the barbecue area and outdoor seating. There are accommodation options if you wish to make it a longer trip to Kinloch. Stay in the Heritage Lodge, which dates back to 1868, or choose one of the two passive ‘low energy’ cabins designed with locally sourced green building technology.
Canyon Brewing
This could possibly be the most scenic brewery in New Zealand. Canyon Brewing is a micro-brewery which sits below the historic Edith Cavell Bridge overlooking the fast-paced Shotover River in Arthurs Point. After a day on the slopes, roll off the hill and into a Saturday après session in their beautiful beer garden with the Shotover jet racing below you.
Perkys Floating Bar
For million-dollar views of Lake Whakatipu, head to New Zealand’s only floating bar, Perkys Floating Bar. The retired cruise boat, which was built in Colchester, England in 1955, hosts a warm, casual bar vibe perfect for sunset drinks taking in the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountain peaks. You can BYO food on board if you want to set up a spread while you enjoy your drinks with a view.
Read: Where to travel in New Zealand
Wakatipu Grill at Hilton Queenstown
For upscale New Zealand dining, book a table on the outdoor terrace at Wakatipu Grill located at Hilton Queenstown. Feast on selection meats from the grill while taking in the sights of the glistening Lake Whakatipu and the magnificent mountain backdrop. Afterwards, head on over to the Pinot Pit, a roaring fire pit surrounded by a sunken lounge. A perfect spot to keep enjoying those views over a glass of Central Otago pinot noir.
Jacks Point Restaurant
On the edge of Lake Tewa you’ll find one of the world’s most spectacular golf courses, Jacks Point. After a day on the green or to venture out of the CBD, soak up the tranquil views from Jacks Point Restaurant where you’ll be served seasonal, local produce cooked over charcoal and a raw bar featuring the region’s best seafoods.
The Boatshed café & bistro
Take a piece of New Zealand history and an iconic waterfront spot and you’ll have the recipe for a very memorable meal. The Boatshed Café & Bistro is housed in a restored, historic New Zealand Railways shipping office which dates back to 1869. Located on the Frankton waterfront, cycle or walk along the Frankton Track or arrive by boat to this quaint café on the shores of Lake Whakatipu. Sit out on the terrace under shaded tables with a coffee and lunch to soak up the lapping lake below and views out to the Remarkables in the distance.
The Grille by Eichardt’s
The Grille by Eichardt’s is located on Queenstown’s waterfront overlooking Queenstown Bay. Celebrating the bounty that comes from Central Otago and Southland, dine al fresco while you soak up the action of the happening around town or choose a cosy table inside and utilise the full-length windows that take in the beautiful lake and mountain views.
Read: New Zealand’s secret wine region
Botswana Butchery
One of Queenstown’s most renowned restaurants, Botswana Butchery is housed in the historic Archer’s Cottage situated on the bustling Marine Parade. With envious lake views and outdoor log fires, there’s a reason it’s consistently rated as one of the resort town’s most popular restaurants.
The Boardwalk
Enjoy delicious fanfare of steak, seafood, oysters and caviar along Queenstown’s most iconic waterfront sites. With the majestic Lady of the Lake TSS Earnslaw nearby, the Steamer Wharf location offers visitors impressive and uninterrupted views of the lake.
Which of these would you most like to visit? Where do you go for Queenstown food with a view? Are you planning a New Zealand trip this year? Let us know in the comments section below.
