For a small place, Queenstown is blessed with the best when it comes to delicious cafes, and we're not the slightest bit embarrassed to say we’ve tried them all. Whether you’re after a healthy meal, a culinary cure after exploring Queenstown’s best bars, or just to keep the good vibes going, there’s something for every breakfast, brunch or lunch occasion.
Without further ado, here are the best cafes in Queenstown.
Jump to:
- Lakefront Cafes With Stunning Views
- Best Breakfast And Brunch Spots
- Cosy Coffee Shops For Rainy Days
- Cafes With Outdoor Seating And Gardens
- Dog-Friendly Cafes In Queenstown
- Vegan And Dietary-Friendly Cafes
- Cafes Open Before 8AM
- Local Favourites
Lakefront Cafes With Stunning Views
The Bathhouse
38 Marine Parade, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: The Bathhouse | Facebook
If you're looking for the perfect breakfast, lunch, or dinner spot where you're guaranteed a view, then look no further than The Bathhouse. Tucked right on the lakefront in the cutest little heritage building you ever did see, this gem serves up breakfast, brunch, and bites with panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. It’s easily one of the dreamiest Queenstown breakfast spots—serving classics with a nostalgic British twist, think a good ol' fashioned bacon butty with a side of jaw-dropping scenery.
The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro
Frankton Road, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: The Boat Shed Cafe | Facebook
If you like to enjoy your morning coffee with a view (who doesn’t?), head straight to The Boat Shed Cafe at the Frankton Marina. Set in the restored New Zealand Railways Shipping Office, this quirky yet cosy building is filled with character and dates all the way back to 1869. With relaxed beach house vibes and a delightful menu including blueberry French toast, chorizo scramble, wild mushrooms on sourdough, and a great cheese scone, this is easily one of Queenstown's best brunch spots. If a flaky pastry sounds better than eggs bene, swing by their brand-new bakery—serving up hand-crafted treats, fresh-baked breads, and top-notch barista coffee.
Patagonia Chocolates
2 Rees Street, Cnr of the Mall, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: Patagonia Chocolates | Facebook
If you're on the hunt for a sweet start to your day, Patagonia Chocolates is one of the best Queenstown lakefront cafes to do just that. Sitting right on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, it’s the perfect spot to grab breakfast in Queenstown with a view. While they're famous for their dreamy chocolates and house-made gelato, they also serve fresh pastries, breakfast toasties, and rich, velvety hot chocolates that’ll warm you right up. Whether you're fuelling up before an adventure or just after a cruisy start to the morning, Patagonia has all the cosy, lakeside vibes.
Best Breakfast And Brunch Spots
odd saint
1 Earl Street, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: odd saint | Instagram
It’s all in the name… odd saint, is well, a little odd, and we’re 1000% here for it. This joint has just been nominated for Best Cafe in Queenstown for its day offering, so we’re pumped that the doors are now open in the evenings too. Co-owner and executive chef, Matt Tobin (of sister restaurant, Margo’s), and head chef Anton Walden are killing the game with a complete culinary adventure on offer—cajun spiced prawns, brekkie buns, and a chicken karaage roll to name a few. Pull up a seat inside the low-lit bistro or enjoy the heated garden courtyard, and order a cheeky cocktail or two.
Bespoke Kitchen
9 Isle Street, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: Bespoke Bakery | Supplied
When it comes to the best cafes in Queenstown, Bespoke Kitchen is an absolute must-try. Perched on the hill with stunning views over the bay and the Remarkables, it’s a peaceful escape just minutes from town. Known for serving one of the best breakfasts in Queenstown, Bespoke delivers a seasonal, all-day menu packed with fresh, wholesome options—think vibrant bowls, indulgent vegan pancakes, and the classic eggs bene. The vibe is cosy yet buzzing, with outdoor seating among the pine trees and a stylish interior that feels like a modern alpine retreat.
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Cosy Coffee Shops For Rainy Days
Bean Around The World
11 Athol Street, Queenstown | $
Image credit: Bean Around the World | Supplied
Tucked just off the main street on Athol Street, Bean Around the World is a hidden gem among Queenstown cafes—and a favourite with locals. One of the few Queenstown cafes open early, it’s perfect for an early morning caffeine fix before the crowds roll in. This cosy, family-run spot has been roasting award-winning beans since 1995. With only a few seats, it’s a great place to relax, people-watch, or dive into a book on a rainy day. While they don’t serve food, their coffee more than earns them a place on any list of the best Queenstown cafes—and their vintage espresso machine is a must-see for coffee lovers.
Cafes With Outdoor Seating And Gardens
11th Avenue By Frank's
1/25 Eleventh Avenue, Lower Shotover, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: 11th Avenue by Frank's | Facebook
Let’s be frank, when it comes to the best breakfast spots in Queenstown, 11th Avenue by Frank's is a standout. Family-run and full of heart, it ticks all the boxes—epic food, consistently great coffee, and warm, welcoming service. With a cosy covered courtyard for winter and a sunny lawn area for summer, it’s a hit year-round (especially with little ones). The menu is packed with wholesome dishes made from free-range, locally sourced produce—whether you’re dropping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’re in for a treat.
Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen
265 Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road, Lake Hayes Estate | $$$
Image credit: Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen | Supplied
Previously known as Akarua, Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen is still one of the top spots for breakfast in Queenstown—especially if you're after a scenic start to the day. Set in a charming weatherboard cottage in Arrowtown, it’s perfect for a relaxed breakfast or long lunch. Favourites include the seared halloumi with dukkah and the brioche French toast. From 10am, pair your brunch with a mimosa or sample award-winning wines at the cellar door across the courtyard—it’d be rude not to.
Dog-Friendly Cafes In Queenstown
Odelay Cafe
10/5 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: Odelay Cafe | Facebook
Odelay Cafe is a local gem and easily one of the best cafes in Queenstown for a laid-back, satisfying start to your day—and it’s dog-friendly too, so your four-legged mate is welcome to join. Located in Frankton, it’s the go-to spot for both locals and travellers looking for quality coffee and a hearty breakfast in Queenstown. The menu is packed with flavourful favourites like the açai bowl, chorizo hash, and next-level eggs benny, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a relaxed brunch, Odelay ticks all the boxes.
Vegan And Dietary-Friendly Cafes
Yonder
14 Church Street, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: Yonder | Supplied
Yonder is that effortlessly cool spot that nails breakfast, brunch, dinner, and cocktails. If you’ve got dietary restrictions, no stress, Yonder caters for all. It’s got that laid-back, slightly hipster vibe (in the best way), live music nights, and a menu that lets vegans, veggies, and meat-eaters all live in delicious harmony. With the self-proclaimed best coffee in Queenstown, irresistible baked goods, and an epic menu full of brunchy favourites, you really can’t go wrong. We recommend digging into the vegan butty loaded with mushrooms, crispy pumpkin, and onion jam, and you'll soon see why Yonder should be at the top of your where to eat in Queenstown list.
The Sherwood
554 Frankton Road, Queenstown | $$$
Image credit: The Sherwood | Facebook
If you're wondering where to eat in Queenstown for a truly thoughtful and seasonal dining experience, look no further than The Sherwood. Known for its sustainability and creative flair, The Sherwood sources nearly everything from its on-site organic garden or local growers, and all food waste goes right back into the garden. It’s a place where nature and flavour go hand in hand, with a seasonal menu that mirrors the landscapes just outside the door. Whether you're stopping in for a wholesome Queenstown breakfast or settling in for dinner, every dish is crafted with care. Even the drinks follow suit, with the bar running on zero-waste principles and 60% of wines bottled in-house.
Cafes Open Before 8AM
Balls And Bangles
62 Shotover Street, Queenstown | $
Image credit: Balls and Bangles | Facebook
If you're on the hunt for Queenstown cafes that are open early, Balls and Bangles should be top of your list. This quirky spot is known for its creative bagels, loaded donuts, and epic coffee—all served up from 7.30am daily. Whether you’re fuelling up for an adventure or simply just need your morning caffeine fix, Balls and Bangles offers a fun and flavour-packed start to the day. Choose from savoury bagels stacked with fillings or treat yourself to one of their famous over-the-top donuts—you deserve it. Trust us, it's a must-visit for early risers in Queenstown.
Fergbaker
40 Shotover Street, Queenstown | $
Image credit: Fergbaker | Facebook
Fergbaker is a must-visit on any Queenstown cafes list—especially if you're after something tasty before the crowds hit. Known as Fergburger’s sister spot, this local favourite opens bright and early at 6am, making it one of the top Queenstown cafes open early. Locals rave about the pies and Boston cream donuts, but you’ll also find croissants, sandwiches, and great coffee—perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast in Queenstown. There’s no seating, but with Lake Wakatipu just steps away, you’ve got the best lakefront dining view in town.
Local Favourites
Vudu Cafe
16 Rees Street, Queenstown | $$
Image credit: Vudu Cafe | Facebook
Located in the heart of town with stunning views over Lake Wakatipu, Vudu Cafe is easily one of the best cafes in Queenstown and a must-visit for breakfast in Queenstown. Loved by locals and visitors alike, this bustling spot serves up top-notch Allpress coffee and a menu that ranges from wholesome to indulgent. Choose from cabinet delights like vegan treats and hearty sandwiches, or go all in with menu favourites like the ancient grains salad with avocado foam or the orchard fruit crumble with whipped mascarpone. Pro tip: arrive early—this place fills up fast.
Already thinking about dinner? Here are Queenstown and Arrowtown's best restaurants.
Image credit: odd saint, The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro, odd saint, 11th Avenue by Frank's, Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen, Bathhouse Lakefront Restaurant by Sam Stewart Photography, Bespoke Kitchen, The Chop Shop Food Merchants, Yonder, Vudu Cafe & Larder, The Exchange.