The culinary philosophy at Steamer Wharf restaurant  Sunfire is one of flavours on fire incorporating the elements of charcoal, flame and high quality ingredients.

Owners Jonathan Bisley and Lou McDowell have designed their menu so every dish is centred on a connection to cooking with fire, expanding on the legacy of their other high profile Queenstown restaurant Flame Bar & Grill.

“The kitchen takes inspiration from around the globe resulting in food that is vibrant and designed to be shared and celebrated,” says Jonathan. “Much like at Flame everything is made in-house including the butchery producing apple wood smoked bacon, sausages and aged steaks while our culinary team crafts sauces, stocks and jus overnight all with an intense focus on quality.”

Sunfire opened in mid-2024 with a goal to introduce a new restaurant that carried over the same warm hospitality from Flame with a fresh, modern twist.

“We wanted to create a unique destination here on the waterfront that feels relaxed during the day and electric in the evenings, where both the food and the fire become the main attractions,” says Jonathan.

Seasonal and local produce is the starting point for the Sunfire menu including Central Otago lamb, Southland beef and South Island seafood ensuring every dish showcases the quality and distinct character of New Zealand ingredients.

“Instead of overcomplicating the food, the kitchen chooses to highlight  natural flavours through smoking, charring, and grilling over charcoal,” says Jonathan. “This method draws out the depth and sweetness in vegetables, tenderness in meats and adds a touch of theatre to each plate while letting the ingredients speak for themselves.”

Steamer Wharf and its vibrant energy provides the perfect backdrop for Sunfire.

“This is a restaurant crafted for every moment of the day from lakeside breakfasts and leisurely lunches to lively dinners. Our team is proud to be part of the Steamer Wharf community and contributing something fresh to Queenstown’s dining scene.”

Wakatipu Lakeside Breakfast

One of the few Steamer Wharf restaurants open for breakfast Sunfire offers a menu designed to kick start the day.

“Our guests can enjoy vibrant, nourishing plates that incorporate the warmth of the grill such as fire-roasted shakshuka with smoked paprika and feta, charred sourdough with blistered tomatoes and whipped avocado, a hearty breakfast skillet or a light, health-focused fitness toast,” says owner Jonathan Bisley.

“Our full blast coffee is robust and flavourful and a great way to begin the day while enjoying the incredible lakeside view that feels special every morning.”

Open every day from 9.00 am bookings are not required and walk-in’s welcomed.