Outstanding food, delicious cocktails, locals’ favourites and stunning views make summer the best time to check out these Queenstown icons.

A go-to destination in the heart of Queenstown odd saint is a firm visitor and locals’ favourite for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Summertime is the perfect time to visit with all-day sun on the north-facing patio or alternately soak up the warmth inside through large sun-drenched windows. Relax and enjoy fabulous food and divine drinks with a crowd-pleasing menu of dishes that go far beyond anything on offer elsewhere. Innovation is key to the menu with summer dishes including Mediterranean style poached eggs, Lukpa’s pork belly larb salad, a BBQ market fish bibimbap or tiramisu brioche bun.  If you’re not sure what to choose odd saint is known for exceptional service with a friendly team to help guide you. They will highlight crowd favourites that have been on the menu since day dot. As it’s always cocktail time somewhere start the day off with superb $12 mimosas during Mimosa Mornings from 8.00am to 12.00pm daily or indulge in a refreshing Rosa’s Spritz or Drogo’s Espresso Martini, mango smoothies and delicious coffee from eighthirty roasters. 

You haven’t discovered the best of Queenstown’s dining scene if you haven’t ventured up the stairs in Queenstown Mall and stepped into the fun, vibrant, lively and a little bit cheeky world of Margo’s. People keep returning here for exceptional flavour packed Mexican-inspired food. This is not your average Mexican – no siree. Tastes, textures and flavour combos from executive chef Matt Tobin make this menu hum with new dishes including the super tasty Lamb Merguez Bun with all the trimmings, Duck Carnitas Nachos or for vegetarians there are Pulled Jackfruit tacos or a tropical buttermilk popcorn cauliflower dish.

 “Locals and visitors from all over the world just keep coming back to Margo’s, it’s got a really strong fanbase,” says co-owner James Ace.  

Year after year Little Blackwood is voted among New Zealand’s best bars – for a reason. Loved by all who walk through the doors this Queenstown standout is the place for cocktails and exceptional cheese and charcuterie platters. 

“It’s the perfect spot to stroll along the lakefront to Steamer Wharf, grab a seat outside and soak up the sunshine with uninterrupted lake and mountain views,” says co-owner Bert Haines. 

Later in the evening head inside, grab a table and enjoy free live music. Cocktails change seasonally with the current Feast of the Gods menu blending flavours, spirits, styles and hospitality legends of Greek mythology (where all foreigners were believed to be gods in human form).  Manager Miles and his team impress and delight with Trust the Bartender cocktails – don’t leave without trying their legendary cheeseboards showcasing artisan produce from Gibbston Valley Cheese, Zamora Meat Preachers charcuterie and homemade hummus.