Our 5 favorite cafes in Queenstown
Most well known as the adventure capital of NZ, it’s only fitting that Queenstown would have an equally adventurous food and beverage game – and that it does! There are some amazing cafe’s, restaurants, and even some of New Zealand’s top wineries are in Queenstown. Chances are you’ll be busy exploring the beautiful landscape that is Queenstown or partaking in some adrenaline fueled activities in Queenstown, which will no doubt work up an appetite.
There are so many wonderful Queenstown cafes to choose from, whether you’re after something wildly wholesome or something a little more indulgent – you won’t be disappointed!
Check out our top 5 Queenstown cafes for all the sweet and savoury goodies your taste buds desire…
1. Vudu Cafe & Larder
Photo credit: Vudu Cafe & Larder
Located right in the centre of the gorgeous Queenstown overlooking Lake Wakatipu, is where you’ll find this equally gorgeous cafe. There’s an absolute treasure trove of both sweet and savoury goodies to peruse in the cabinet, or take a seat and work your way through their delicious menu.
An excellent mix of dangerously decadent and healthy eats can be found, with options such as the melt-in-you-mouth hummingbird pancakes to the mushroom, lentil and walnut burger. There’s plenty of vegan fare so everyone in your group should be well catered for. Make sure to arrive early as this place is alway popular with both locals and visitors alike! Don’t leave without grabbing a piece of carrot cake to go – thank us later!
2. Yonder
Photo credit: Yonder
A truly all-hous spot, yonder is your go-to for phenomenal coffee, epic brunch dishes and heaps of other scrumptious goodies. Park up on the patio and start the day right with your group, fuelling up for a serious day of adventure with some seriously good eats.
There’s a multitude of different dishes to choose from, again catering to all dietary requirements. If you’re arriving later in the day it’s also an excellent spot to enjoy some drinks and catch some live entertainment and late night shenanigans as Yonder say!
3. Bespoke Kitchen
Photo credit: Bespoke Kitchen
Having been crowned New Zealand Cafe of the Year in 2015, it would be criminal not to visit Bespoke Kitchen on a trip to Queenstown! Nestled on the hillside overlooking Queenstown, this cafe has certainly got a lot to offer. Their menu is very seasonal and based around using organic and raw ingredients where possible.
You’ll definitely feel well nourished and ready to go after stopping in here for a bite to eat. There’s a fantastic atmosphere and nothing but good vibes to be found, along with dishes such as smoothie bowls, eggs benedict, fresh salads teeming with colour and drool worthy home-made pastries. Sold!
4. The Boat Shed
Photo credit: The Boat Shed
You can’t go past The Boat Shed for one immaculate lakeside view. Pair the stunning scenes with a quality drop of coffee and you have yourself an epic wee Queenstown Cafe in the heart of Tāhuna.
The cafe is housed within the restored New Zealand Railways Shipping Office, adding to the venue’s unique charm. Alongside the fantastic setting and coffee you’ll find an impressive all day menu with crowd favorites such as the brioche french toast, coconut chia pudding and corn fritters with halloumi.
5. Chop Shop Merchants
Photo credit: The Chop Shop Food Merchants
No trip to Queenstown is complete without a visit to nearby Arrowtown. This quaint and charming village is full to the brim with character and Chop Shop Merchants is no exception! Tucked away down Arrow Lane just behind the main street and nestled amongst stone cottages is where you’ll find Chop Shop.
Expect to find something for everyone with hearty eats such as ricotta hotcakes (always a winner in our books), huevos rancheros and purple kumara waffles just to name a few! The coffee is also excellent and if you like a stronger drop – there’s a great espresso martini on offer too!
So there you have it – 5 epic cafes to work your way through their menus!
Let us know what your favourite menu or cabinet treat was when you check them out.
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