We know that Queenstown is more than a beautiful place to get married – it’s a destination. We find that our couples and their loved ones can’t help but stay in our bustling town before and after the big day, so we’ve put together a list of our favourite local restaurants for everyone to enjoy.

Akarua Winery + Kitchen by Artisan – What do you get when you combine one of Central Otago’s most renowned wineries with handcrafted cuisine?… A masterpiece of course! The team here have matched Akarua Winery’s premium wines with delicious food made from scratch with ingredients sourced from local growers. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at the historic cottage and sip wine in the beautiful garden amongst the flowers and lush greenery.

Bespoke Kitchen – Located in Queenstown town centre en route to Skyline Gondola, this local café has everything you could ever want in breakfast or lunch. With a menu that changes by the season, the team at Bespoke Kitchen use only fresh, local ingredients. And don’t forget their coffee, fresh squeezed juices and delectable sweet treats!

Madam Woo – A New Zealand favourite for Asian cuisine. Taking inspiration from Malaysian street food and Chinese influences, expect big flavours in a vibrant environment here. Make sure to arrive thirsty too, as you’ll want to try their customised cocktails!

Rata – Having been awarded with two out of three ‘Hats’, you know you will get exceptional food here. The idea behind Rata for Michelin star chef, Josh Emett, was to make New Zealand the centrepiece. He has handcrafted a menu that showcases the best tastes of New Zealand, so visitors can have a truly authentic experience here.

Chop Shop – If you’re looking for breakfast or lunch while you’re exploring beautiful Arrowtown, you have to stop here. But don’t misunderstand – this is not your ordinary breakfast place! You’ll get breakfast with a twist here – ricotta pancakes, Turkish poached eggs and Bao buns to name a few.

Tanoshi – A taste of Japan in Queenstown! Offering traditional Japanese cuisine in tapas (shared) style, you will feel like you’re in a back alley of Osaka once you walk through the doors. The friendly staff will welcome you with warm smiles and are happy to share samples of their authentic sake and Japanese whiskeys.

Sherwood – Ranked in the world’s top ten most sustainable hotels, it’s safe to say that sustainability is the forefront of what the team here do. Using ingredients from either their own on-site garden or local Central Otago farmers, this restaurant is as organic as it gets. After your meal here, take a stroll around the grounds and learn about their zero-waste goal from the staff, enjoy some live music or sip on their organic wine by the cosy fire.

Botswana Butchery – It’s difficult to visit Queenstown without hearing about this renowned restaurant. Set in a historic cottage beside Lake Wakatipu, you can enjoy delicious meats and gourmet food plus beautiful lake views if seated outdoors. If seated indoors though, don’t worry as you’ll feel so cosy and at home in the lovely, warm cottage with the knowledgeable staff.

Blue Kanu – Mixing Polynesian and Asian style food to create ‘Polynasian’ cuisine, you’re sure to try something new here. With a warm, island feel as soon as you walk through the door, try a variety of tapas perfect for sharing. Be sure to also try a cocktail or two with your delicious meal! Perfect for two or a big group.

Jervois Steak House – If you love meat, look no further! You’ll find the highest quality of meat here, accompanied with beautiful sides and wine to match. But if steak isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry – they have plenty of seafood, chicken and vegetarian options to suit anyone’s tastes.

La Rumbla – Tucked in an alleyway in historic Arrowtown, this Spanish tapas and cocktail bar is a must-try for dinner if you visit Arrowtown. A fun night out, you’ll want to bring your whole wedding crew!

Bella Cucina – With an ever-changing menu featuring traditional Italian options all made from scratch, you won’t believe you’re in New Zealand. Enjoy their range of pastas, pizzas, Italian wines and don’t forget to save room for dessert because their tiramisu cannot be skipped!