There’s something ever-so-charming about restored buildings... character and history radiating from their old bones. And when they’re home to great food, great drinks and great people you can bet your bottom dollar we’re all about it.
Enter, Queenstown’s newest hospitality destination SUNDAYS, a character-filled eatery and drink(ery) in a stunning church building from 1933. Helmed by French-born head chef Ludovic Paris, the wood-fired menu is described as “honest and straightforward”, however, let us tell you, the flames from the wood-fired oven deliver flavours that are anything but straightforward *chefs kiss*.
Neapolitan-style pizzas are the hero, with their light and morish sourdough bases that perfectly puff up around the edges—team that with simple, yet blimmin’ delicious toppings and you’ve got a pizza worth worshipping. One that you’d expect in Italy’s south, although without the airfare. They’re so good, locals are already starting to coin them the best in town… but we’ll let you be the judge.
The pizzas are complemented by plenty of European-inspired share-style plates such as buffalo stracciatella with fresh tomatoes, tuna tartare, succulent spiced lamb ribs and charred local harvest. There’s also a snack menu for those popping in for a drink, with everything from salty, cheesy, pecorino churros to wood-fired flatbread and much-loved agria fries.
Now if you’re into a bit of sangria, SUNDAYS will answer all of your prayers as this fun cocktail is the star of the drinks menu—with white, pink and rosé variations to choose from. Accompanied by all the much-loved classics like margaritas, spritz and a darn good Coffee Supreme espresso martini.
There are plenty of options for the wine drinkers too, with a boutique list that heroes the wider Otago region and includes some interesting drops worth trying. Plus, we love that you can sip by the glass, carafe or bottle. Now, let’s not forget beer, they’ve got six on tap and plenty in the fridge to keep you cool all year round.
If that hasn’t sold you yet, one, you’re mad, and two, there’s also a massive outdoor patio and lawn area for basking in the sunshine and listening to live music every weekend. Come winter, the team are installing an outdoor fireplace and covered pergola—après anyone? Oh and three, there’s an on-site kids' playground and farm animals over the fence. Sold!
So, who’s keen to pretend it’s Sunday every day of the week and lounge about eating and drinking in good company? Count us in.
The Details
What: SUNDAYS
Where: Country Lane, 26 Hansen Road, Frankton, Queenstown
When: Open seven days, 12pm-late
Keen for more legit Queenstown eateries? Here are the best restaurants in town.
Image credit: SUNDAYS | Supplied