1. Madam Woo
They describe the food as ‘fresh Malaysian hawker-style’ and I think they might just be under-selling themselves a touch (having enjoyed the street food of Malaysia ourselves), this is next level. The food is yum, the place is cool with funky vibes and the service we experienced was some of the best we’ve had. Props.
www.madamwoo.co.nz 5 The Mall, Lower Ballarat Street, Queenstown 9348
2. Vudu Café
This place isn’t huge, but their cabinets are. Heaps of selection, as well as a decent menu of kitchen food. Love that this place opens up onto the lakeside, meaning there’s heaps more space if the weather’s playing the game. I’d say that this is typical NZ café-style food, but done well. They’ve also got basic options like toast for $6 if you’re on a budget.
www.vudu.co.nz 16 Rees St, Queenstown 9300
3. Fat Badgers Pizza
Just decent pizza. Not a whole lot we can say here except it’s a Queenstown institution and worth trying out. All the flavours, classic and gourmet. Mmm pizza.
www.fatbadgerspizza.com 33 Camp St, Queenstown 9300
4. Amisfield
If you’re in the Queenstown area and looking to go classy, Amisfield is a good bet. A bit out of town (you’ll have to drive), Amisfield Bistro and Vineyard is a gorgeous building set on an equally stunning site. Good food, but I think it’s their wine which I’ll come back for. They’ve also got a cellar door if you don’t have time for a sit-down meal.
www.amisfield.co.nz 10 Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Rd, Frankton, Queenstown 9371
5. Ferg
Going to cheat slightly here and group all the Ferg things together. Located in one block, you’ll find Ferg Bakery, Gelato and Burgers. If you’ve been to Queenstown before, you would have no doubt tasted Ferg Burgers, they’re pretty famous. They’ve added to their offering with superb gelato and delicious baked goods, perfect for a breakfast on the go. You’ll need to wait a bit for Ferg Burger’s as they’re always busy, maybe a breakfast burger is your best bet to avoid lines. Second breakfast?
www.fergburger.com 42 Shotover St, Queenstown 9300
6. Farelli’s Trattatoria
Located in the Steamer Wharf Complex next to the lakefront, this rustic, delicious slice of Italy was pretty darn good. We’d accidently over-napped and headed here reasonably late on our last night in Queenstown, but glad we made the effort.
www.farellis.co.nz Steamer Wharf, Beach St, Queenstown
7. Toro Kitchen and Bar
We were probably the most excited about eating here out of all the places. The last time we were in Queenstown they’d been putting this place together – we sat across the mall watching all the finishing touches being applied to the place and we could tell from the décor we would love this place. And we did.
www.toroqueenstown.co.nz 20 Mall St, Queenstown 930
8. Arrowtown Café & Bakery
It’s just a classic Bakery where you can pick up a decent Mince & Cheese Pie for cheap. Would totally recommend stopping by for lunch on a nice day and taking out. We sat and ate our pies in the gorgeous park across the street. Our kind of kiwi lunch.
1 Buckingham St, Arrowtown 9302
9. The Chop Shop
Love the name, love the décor and the food is pretty decent too. Tucked away off the main st in Arrowtown, lunch service was pretty busy – they’re only open for breakfast and lunch, so you need to turn up early for this one. Asian fusion at its best, check it out next time you’re in town, we will fo’sure.
www.facebook.com/thechopshopfoodmerchants Arrow Ln, Arrowtown 9302
10. Ivy & Lola’s
We can’t comment on the food (although it looks pretty good), but this is a decent spot for a drink at any time of the day, right on the lake. We visited on a freezing day, sat outside to admire the views and loved the mulled cider – warmed the cockles.
www.ivyandlolas.com 88 Beach St, Queenstown 9300