A small and select group of restaurants can be found in prime locations in and around Queenstown’s lakefront offering summer hospitality at its best as Margo Berryman finds out.

Brunching at The Grille An opulent restaurant on Queenstown’s lakefront, The Grille at Eichardt’s is an ideal spot for Sunday brunch during summer. There is nothing quite like a relaxed start to Sunday and the new brunch menu is available from 11.00am. There is a delicious line up of tempting dishes, including classics such as eggs Benedict and Westcoast whitebait fritters through to light and fresh berries & Chia, seasonal fruit salad or bruschetta with smashed edamame & smoked ricotta. From midday the Grille menu kicks in with tempting items like the Eichardt’s eye fillet sliders, calamari & prosciutto salad and the Grille Sunday lamb shoulder, slow roasted for 13 hours. Bookings recommended.

New Year Celebrations at No5 For an exceptional night out in Queenstown to see the New Year in, book a table at No5 in Church Lane and delight in a five-course sharing degustation before wandering down to the waterfront to catch the fireworks buzz. For just $135 a head including a glass of bubbles, No5 is one of the most stylish spots to herald in 2020. Reserving a table guarantees a place back inside the swanky bar following the fireworks display – a New Year’s Eve celebration to remember.

Social for Summer Situated on Queenstown’s waterfront, Eichardt’s Private Hotel bar has been a local’s favourite since 1867. From its premier location the exclusive bar serves sophisticated, pared-back dishes and tasty tapas using organic and fresh produce from local growers. Open every day for breakfast and from 12.00pm until late for lunch and dinner, this is one of Queenstown’s most sought after spots. Indulge in a signature cocktail, fresh oysters or choose a glass of wine from their hand-selected range of world-class Central Otago wines.