Come for the views, stay for the food 😋
Queenstown is famous for adventure. You bungee jump, ski, jet boat, and chase mountain views. But once the adrenaline fades, something else steals the spotlight—the best food in Queenstown.
With its juicy burgers, fresh seafood, creamy gelato, and world-class wines, this lakeside town surprisingly packs some flavors. So if you’re searching for quick bites after exploring or a special dinner with a view, you’ll find it here.
In this guide, we’re recommending seven of the best food places in Queenstown, what to order, and where to go next.
1. Gourmet burgers from Fergburger
Legendary Fergburger with onion rings in Queenstown | Photo from lawtonjm on Flickr
Address: 42 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Must Order: Ferg Deluxe (beef, bacon, avocado, aioli)
You can’t talk about the best food in Queenstown without starting with Fergburger. This place has a cult following, and for good reason. The burgers are huge, juicy, and flavorful! The “Ferg Deluxe” is a fan favorite, stacked high with beef, bacon, avocado, and aioli.
The line often goes down the street, but don’t let that intimidate you. It moves quickly, and the wait is part of the experience. Grab your burger and head to the lakefront for the ultimate Queenstown moment.
Klook Tip: Go during off-peak hours (mid-afternoon or late evening) to skip the longest queues.
2. Green-lipped mussels at Skyline Stratosfare
Fresh New Zealand green-lipped mussels | Photo from Joe Ross on Wikimedia
Address: Skyline Queenstown, 53 Brecon Street, Queenstown 9300
Must Order: South Island lamb & green-lipped mussels
If you want a meal with a view, take the gondola up to Skyline Queenstown and enjoy a buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant.
The spread includes fresh seafood, roast meats, salads, and desserts. The South Island lamb is tender and flavorful, and the green-lipped mussels are fresh and briny. And the dessert station? Hard to resist.
Eating here feels special. You watch the sun dip behind the mountains while enjoying some of the finest food in Queenstown, New Zealand.
3. Lamb shoulder at Rātā
Grilled New Zealand lamb chops with roasted vegetables | Photo from Neeta Lind on Flickr
Address: 43 Ballarat Street, Queenstown 9300
Must Order: Lamb shoulder
We all know New Zealand lamb is famous worldwide, and Rātā elevates it to another level.
The lamb shoulder is slow-cooked, tender, and full of flavor. It’s served with seasonal sides that bring out local produce. Every plate looks beautiful, but the flavors remain comforting and rich.
If you’re looking for elegant dining among the best restaurants in Queenstown, this dish belongs on your list. Pair it with Central Otago Pinot Noir for the full experience!
And you can even spice up your evening with a Queenstown wine tasting experience.
4. Eye fillet steak at Botswana Butchery
Eye fillet steak with spinach and red wine jus | Photo by Taha Samet Arslan on Pexels
Address: 17 Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300
Must Order: Eye fillet steak
Craving some steak? Dine at Botswana Butchery and try their eye fillet steak! The eye fillet is perfectly cooked and incredibly tender, served with rich sauces and seasonal sides. The ambiance feels elegant but still relaxed, perfect for a special night out.
This dish shows why Queenstown food blends comfort with sophistication. It’s hearty, flavorful, and memorable.
5. Steak & cheese pie from Fergbaker
Classic New Zealand steak and cheese pie | Photo from Finbar.concaig on Wikimedia
Address: 40 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300
Must Order: Steak & cheese pie
Next door to Fergburger, Fergbaker serves flaky, golden pies that locals love. The steak and cheese pie is savory, rich, and filling. The crust is buttery and crisp, which makes it a perfect snack before heading out on a Queenstown wine tour.
6. Pork ribs at Flame Bar & Grill
BBQ pork ribs served with fries and vegetables | Photo by Alberta Studios on Pexels
Address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
Must Order: Pork ribs platter
Flame Bar & Grill is known for its smoky, tender ribs. Their pork ribs are glazed with a rich BBQ sauce and fall right off the bone. Served with fries and slaw, it’s filling and satisfying. Plus, the lakeside views make the food taste even better. If you’re going to Queenstown with your friends and wondering where to eat good ribs, this is a great choice.
Klook Tip: After dinner with your friends, extend your hangout and chill at the Queenstown Ice Bar, a unique cocktail lounge carved from almost 30 tonnes of ice!
7. Central Otago Pinot Noir in Gibbston Valley
Central Otago Pinot Noir wine tasting experience
Address: 1820 State Highway 6, Gibbston 9371
Must Order: Pinot Noir
This one’s technically not a food, but you can’t talk about the best food in Queenstown without pairing it with their wine.
Central Otago Pinot Noir is bold, fruity, and smooth. Join a guided tasting like this Queenstown wine tasting tour and sample 13-15 different local wines.
The region’s cool climate creates exceptional wines. Add cheese pairings, and it becomes a full sensory experience!
FAQs about food in Queenstown
What food is Queenstown known for?
Queenstown is known for gourmet burgers, fresh seafood, and Central Otago wines. Lamb is also popular, as New Zealand is famous for high-quality meat.
Is food expensive in Queenstown?
Food in Queenstown can be pricier than in other towns in New Zealand. It’s a popular tourist destination, so prices reflect that. However, you can still find budget-friendly eats like fish and chips or bakery pies.
What to wear to dinner in Queenstown?
Queenstown is relaxed, so smart casual works almost everywhere. For fine dining spots, wear neat shoes and a nice top or jacket. If you’re coming straight from outdoor activities, freshen up before heading out.
What are some Queenstown specialties?
Local specialties include Central Otago Pinot Noir, New Zealand lamb, and fresh seafood. Burgers are iconic here, especially at Fergburger. Wine and cheese tastings are also a big part of the local culture.
What are the must-try dishes in Queenstown?
You must try a gourmet burger, local lamb, fresh fish and chips, and Pinot Noir wine. If you love seafood, order green-lipped mussels. These dishes truly showcase the best food in Queenstown.
Where to go for dinner in Queenstown?
Head to Skyline Stratosfare for views or Botswana Butchery for steak. If you want something casual, try Flame Bar & Grill or grab a lakeside takeaway. The variety makes it easy to find your perfect dinner spot.
Treat yourself to some of the best food in Queenstown!
Queenstown is a destination where flavor meets scenery. Plan your trip, book your tastings, ride the gondola, and treat yourself. Start building your food-filled itinerary today!
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