Queenstown’s waterfront provides a superb backdrop for Finz Seafood & Grill which, inspired by its surroundings, has become one of the resort’s best known and stylish eateries.

The restaurant is now open for lunch during summer, as well as evening dining, and the Kiwi style menu ranges from exceptional seafood dishes to a selection of prime cuts of beef and lamb.

“We have a real focus on serving the very freshest New Zealand seafood dishes that are a true representation of the best produce available,” says marketing and sales manager Martin James. “New Zealand has one of the most sustainable fisheries in the world, so we are lucky to have access to incredible seafood like oysters, mussels, blue cod, salmon, crayfish and tuna.”

“Located on Steamer Wharf beside Lake Wakatipu it’s the perfect lunch spot – totally front row. There is nothing quite like sitting at one of our outside tables and eating a big bowl of New Zealand mussels while overlooking the lake and watching the vintage steamer the TSS Earnslaw departing and arriving. For visitors having a day off from activities it’s nice to slow things down a bit and sit, relax and enjoy the ambience and food and wine with one of the best views in town.”

The Finz vibe is smart casual.

“We are definitely not formal dining,” says Martin. “Our team share a real passion for creating memorable dining experiences and we work hard to achieve that.”

The most popular dish on the menu is the seafood platter followed by the classic blue cod and chips.

“The seafood platter is our signature dish and is incredibly flavoursome and tailored for two people to share. The chargrilled Stewart Island salmon and salt and pepper squid are fresh and light dishes ideal for lunch as are our famous Finz fish & chips, definitely my favourite.”

“Mussels are sought after by visitors and are the second most googled food group in New Zealand after lamb, so they are very popular here,” he says. “We also serve prime cuts of Southland beef and lamb and take pride in our hand selected wines like Central Otago Pinot Noir and Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc that match all our dishes well.”

Martin says the Finz team is proud of what the restaurant has accomplished.

“It’s a joy to share dishes that are a true showcase of what New Zealand flavour is all about – fresh, natural, clean and tantalisingly good.”

Finz Seafood & Grill is open every day from 12.00pm until 2.30pm for lunch and dinner from 5.00pm until late. Walk-ins are welcome but reservations are recommended for larger groups and specific table placement.