6 Best Restaurants in Queenstown, The Southern Alps and Fiordland

Behind the hidden door, you'll find an intimate log-fire lounge with white table clothes, excellent food, and an impressive wine list. The Bunker's cozy atmosphere and fantastic service easily transforms a dinner reservation into an all-night affair, especially if you continue with drinks in their upstairs cocktail lounge. There's even a special Taste of the South degustation menu if you really want to indulge.

Built to commemorate the coronation of King George V, this early 1900s bathhouse on the beach now turns out breakfast, lunch, fresh scones, tapas, and dinner from its tiny kitchen. Many people find it by accident as they walk to the Queenstown Gardens, but it's worth seeking out deliberately.

A Queenstown institution, the famous Fergburger gets mentioned in media around the world. It began life as a burger bar serving from a hole in the wall and kept growing; now there's a permanent queue stretching outside. If you're not too hungry, but want to know what the fuss is about, just share one—they're big enough for two.  Skip the line and order by phone, or instead stop in at their awesome bakery next door.

Dine here and find out why New Zealand is so proud of its beef and lamb: you could take it to the next level with the Wagyu beef, but honestly it's hard to beat the standard Jervois fillet, with onion rings on the side and delicious sauces. Steak is the undisputed hero here, but like the great American steak houses on which Jervois models itself, there's fabulous seafood, too, and even a quality vegetarian menu. Warm, interesting decor, and welcoming, knowledgeable staff (they'll bring cuts of meat to your table to show what you're getting) ensure this place delivers a memorable night. If you can't do dinner, try lunch.

This is a long-standing local favorite restaurant and bar, with a winning combination of excellent pizza, pool tables, and beer. Their motto is "First Pizza. Then Party" so it should be no surprise that it gets lively with DJs and dancing. It's wise to book ahead, as it fills up quickly with backpackers. Ask for a table on the balcony, as it's easily the best spot.

In a lovely old cottage in the middle of town, Yonder has outdoor seating in front; a café-style area in the middle; and, finally, a restaurant, bar, and live venue in the rear. The menu is inspired by the countries of origin of the chefs, and it changes to match the seasons and what's fresh.