The Wai Group made up of Alex Boyes, Jan Rae-Robertson and Martin and Megan Jamesis a Queenstown hospitality leader with its celebrated Italian restaurant Bella Cucina on Brecon Street along with the multiple award winning Finz Seafood & Grill and Public Italian Kitchen on Steamer Wharf.

“We are extremely proud of our achievements in creating our five-star restaurants over many years in Queenstown. The group is firmly invested in each restaurant which continue to shine brightly as some of the best hospitality experiences in the resort.”  

Marty James

A new look, new name and fresh menu welcomes diners to Public Italian Kitchen on Steamer Wharf this season.

Previously known as Public Kitchen & Bar the restaurant has recently undergone a stylish interior makeover complete with soft furnishings and new table seating arrangements throughout the venue.

“The refurbishment was focused on opening up the restaurant by removing the bar stool area and adding more table spaces beside the windows to maximise the fantastic views out over Queenstown’s mountains and Lake Whakatipu,” says venue manager Kirk Webster.

“We still hold happy hour from 3.00pm until 5.00pm every day with our special $12 cocktail menu, which includes our famous Espresso Martini. It’s a great spot for afternoon or early cocktails leading into evening dining.”

The restaurant’s new direction includes a homely and wholesome Italian style menu featuring freshly made handcrafted pasta dishes and a big grill section filled with seriously good locally sourced meats, steaks, seafood and New Zealand lamb.

 “Starters like the Burrata, Tortellini di Ricotta e Funghi and fresh New Zealand oysters are popular as are the fresh pasta dishes like Fusilli al Ragu, Fettuccine Frutti di Mare and Spaghetti ai Gamberi,” says Kirk.

“Our Ribeye di Manzo in the grill section is one of the best quality cuts of steaks available and the whole panfried sole, Akaroa salmon and lamb striploin are very popular especially with tourists.”

Wai Hospitality Group Executive chef Steve Clayton oversees the menu design that is written by head chef Shane Davies and tested with co-owners Marty James and Alex Boyes.

 “The new menu has been super popular with 90 per cent of the dishes available gluten free, including all the pasta dishes, and there are plenty of dairy free options. All are served complete with side dishes optional.”

An extensive wine list featuring wines from throughout New Zealand complements the food and there is a fine selection of Central Otago Pinot Noir, top shelf spirits and craft beers on tap.

“Our deck area overlooking Lake Whakatipu has the closest seating to the water in Queenstown and is hugely popular during spring and summer for al fresco drinks, snacks or evening dining under the stars,” says Kirk.

“Many people come to the restaurant for the view as well as the food because the waterfront location is spectacular. Public Italian Kitchen brings people together to enjoy the environment, the friendly service and outstanding local cuisine which is a true flavour of New Zealand.”

Bookings highly recommended. Walk-ins welcome.