Skip the tourist traps and dive into Queenstown’s best local eats! We’ve handpicked our favourite spots (places where locals actually go) for great food, good vibes, and fair prices. Whether you're after foreign cuisine, a legendary burger, or a hidden gem with lake views, these restaurants are sure to hit the spot.
Check out our recommendations below and on our Google List HERE
Balls & Bangles
Cuisine: Cafe/ Fast Food/ Vegetarian
Score: 4.7 out of 5
Address: 62 Shotover Street, Queenstown
Serving up Queenstown’s best bagels, donuts, and legendary “Burgels” (burger-filled bagels), Balls and Bangles is a must-visit for comfort food lovers. Whether you’re fueling up for an adventure or curing a hangover, their loaded bagels hit the spot. Don’t miss the Vegan Burgel, a taste sensation even if you’re not vegan!
Ramen Ramen by Tanoshi
Cuisine: Japanese
Score: 4.5/5
Address: Searle Lane, Queenstown
For a comforting bowl of deliciousness, Ramen Ramen by Tanoshi is the place to go. Specialising in authentic Japanese ramen, this cozy spot offers rich, flavourful broths paired with perfectly cooked noodles and a variety of mouthwatering toppings. Whether you’re after a classic miso or something a bit more adventurous, Ramen Ramen delivers a satisfying and warming experience that will leave you craving more.
Sherwood
Cuisine: Vegan
Score: 4.4/5
Address: 554 Frankton Road, Queenstown
Nestled on a hillside overlooking Lake Wakatipu, Sherwood offers a dining experience that blends sustainability with creativity. The menu is inspired by the seasons and sourced from their on-site organic garden and local farmers. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty meal, vegan or not, or something light and fresh, Sherwood’s commitment to mindful eating and its rustic, cozy atmosphere make it a must-visit spot for food lovers in Queenstown.
Flame Bar and Grill
Cuisine: South African BBQ
Score: 4.5/5
Address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown
A spectacular rib and steakhouse, Flame Bar & Grill is famous for its mouthwatering ribs and signature South African BBQ sauce, a secret recipe that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more. Whether you're craving perfectly grilled steak or fall-off-the-bone ribs, this spot delivers big on flavour. Book ahead - it’s no secret how good this place is!
Saigon Kingdom
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Score: 4.5/5
Address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown
Where Queenstown's culinary landscape embraces the vibrant zest of Vietnam. Step into this cozy nook, and you're instantly transported to a world where traditional Vietnamese aesthetics blend seamlessly with a modern, relaxed vibe, making you feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden gem in the heart of Hanoi. Try their Vietnamese coffee!
Caribe Latin Kitchen
Cuisine: South American
Score: 4.4/5
Address: 36 Ballarat Street, Queenstown
Bringing a vibrant twist to Queenstown’s food scene, Caribe Latin Kitchen serves up bold flavors, bright colors, and creative dishes inspired by Latin America and the Caribbean. From zesty tacos to hearty arepas, every bite is a fiesta of flavor. If you're after something fresh, fun, and full of spice, this is the place to be!
Margo's
Cuisine: Mexican
Score: 4.7/5
Address: 26 Ballarat Street, Queenstown
A high-energy Mexican-style restaurant, Margo’s brings the vibrant flavours of Mexico to Queenstown. Serving up soul food with bold spices, fresh ingredients, and creative flair, it's a feast for the senses; from the mouthwatering aromas to the colourful plates. Easily one of the best dining experiences in town. Book ahead as this spot fills up fast!
Bella Cucina
Cuisine: Italian
Score: 4.6/5
Address: 6 Brecon Street, Queenstown
Bringing the real flavours of Italy to the heart of Queenstown, Bella Cucina is much more than just pizza and pasta; it's an authentic Italian kitchen where dishes are made with love. Their daily changing menu showcases the freshest seasonal ingredients, ensuring every meal is a true Italian experience. From wood-fired pizzas to handmade pasta, every bite is crafted to perfection. Buon appetito! Book ahead as this place is full every night!
Blue Kanu
Cuisine: Polynesian/ Asian
Score: 4.7/5
Address: 16 Church Street, Queenstown
A long-time Absoloot staff favourite, Blue Kanu blends Pacifica and Asian flavours to create a unique style they call "Polynasia." Expect a fusion of fresh, healthy, and exotic cuisine, enriched with Pacific influences and ancient spices. With an unforgettable atmosphere, stunning decor, and knowledgeable staff, this is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
Fat Baders
Cuisine: Pizza
Score: 4.4/5
Address: 33 Camp Street, Queenstown
Home of the famous massive 20" hand-rolled and tossed New York-style pizzas, Fat Badgers is the go-to spot for a proper pizza feast. Whether you're sharing with friends or taking on a whole pie solo, their loaded slices never disappoint. Go classic with the Pepperoni, or explore their epic menu of toppings; either way, you won’t leave hungry!
@ Thai
Cuisine: Thai
Score: 4.5/5
Address: Level 3 / 8 Church Street, Queenstown
For authentic Thai flavours in the heart of Queenstown, @Thai Cuisine delivers fresh, fragrant, and flavorful dishes that hit the spot. From classic Pad Thai to rich, aromatic curries, every dish is crafted with traditional ingredients and bold spices. Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, this is Thai food done right!
Bombay Palace
Cuisine: Indian
Score: 4.3/5
Address: 66 Shotover Street, Queenstown
Located on bustling Shotover Street, Bombay Palace is a melting pot of Indian cuisine, serving up heady spices, fully flavored curries, and melt-in-your-mouth kebabs and breads. Whether you're craving a rich butter chicken, a fragrant biryani, or fresh naan straight from the tandoor, every dish is packed with authentic flavor. A must-visit for Indian food lovers!
Souvla
Cuisine: Greek
Score: 4.2/5
Address: Eatspace, 30 Camp Street, Queenstown
Bringing the flavors of Greece to Queenstown, Souvla serves up fresh, fast, and authentic Greek street food. Steeped in tradition, their menu features vibrant salads, perfectly grilled souvlaki, and warm, fluffy pita. For the ultimate taste of Greece, we recommend the Grilled Cheese Souvlaki, a must-try for any foodie!
The Locker Room
Cuisine: USA Sports Bar
Score: 4.6/5
Address: 10 Brecon Street, Queenstown
The Locker Room Sports Bar is the place to be for big games, big flavors, and big energy. With an upbeat atmosphere and a menu packed with American classics, you’ll find juicy burgers, loaded fries, tater tots, crispy wings, and ice-cold beers to fuel your game-day vibes. Known for attracting some of New Zealand’s most hardcore sports fans, this is the ultimate spot to cheer on your team!
FOGO BBQ Experieince
Cuisine: Brazilian
Score: 4.6/5
Address: 5/ 24 Beach Street, Queenstown
A TripAdvisor Best of the Best winner in 2022 and 2023, FOGO brings the authentic flavors of all-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ to Queenstown. Indulge in a feast of succulent, fire-grilled meats carved straight to your table, alongside fresh salads and traditional sides. Come hungry—this is a true Brazilian churrasco experience you won’t want to miss!
Tanoshi Cow Lane
Cuisine: Japanese
Score: 4.6/5
Address: Cow Lane, Queenstown
Tucked away in Cow Lane, Tanoshi is a cozy Japanese spot serving up authentic izakaya-style dining in the heart of Queenstown. From flavor-packed ramen and fresh sashimi to perfectly grilled yakitori and tasty bao buns, every dish is made to share and enjoy with good company. Pair your meal with sake or Japanese whisky for the full experience!
The Cow
Cuisine: Italian
Score: 4.3/5
Address: Cow Lane, Queenstown
A Queenstown institution since 1977, The Cow is a rustic, cozy eatery known for its legendary pizzas, hearty pasta dishes, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Tucked away in a historic stone barn, this hidden gem serves up handmade comfort food perfect after a long day of adventuring. Whether you're sharing a classic pizza or digging into a bowl of rich spaghetti, The Cow is a must-visit for a true Queenstown dining experience.
Chur Fish & Chips
Cuisine: NZ / Fish & Chips
Score: 4.8/5
Address: 155B Fernhill Road, Fernhill
For a classic Kiwi fish and chips feed done right, Chur Fish & Chips is worth the trip from Queenstown. Serving up crispy, golden fish, hand-cut chips, and fresh seafood, this spot is all about quality ingredients and big flavors. Located outside the town center, you’ll need a car or a bus ride to get there—but trust us, it’s worth it for some of the best fish and chips around!
King Made Noodles
Cuisine: Chinese
Score: 4/5
Address: 5 Athol Street
Hand-pulled to perfection, King Made Noodles serves up authentic, fresh, and flavorful Chinese noodle dishes right in the heart of Queenstown. Whether you prefer them spicy, soupy, or stir-fried, every bowl is packed with rich broths, tender meats, and aromatic spices. Watch the chefs stretch and pull the noodles by hand—then dive into a meal fit for royalty!
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