The Boat Shed Cafe

Set in a dream location on the shores of Lake Whakatipu in Frankton, The Boat Shed Cafe is a loved spot for locals and visitors to stop in for coffee, a memorable breakfast or lunch, and front-row seats by the lake.

Housed in the New Zealand Railways Shipping Office, the original building dates back to the 1870s and operated as a store in central Queenstown before relocating to Frankton in the 1930s. In 2011, a group of volunteers took it upon themselves to embark on an award-winning restoration project to save the building from total disrepair – subsequently laying the foundations for a bustling cafe now owned by four locals.

There are plenty of nods to the building’s history, with original signage, mismatched timber panelling and exposed wooden trusses juxtaposed with newer features. Perhaps the most modern aspect of all is the contemporary all-day breakfast and lunch menu which changes monthly and shows off Central Otago’s finest produce. We’ve been told it’s criminal to go past the signature French Toast that has been around since day one – but the chorizo scramble, Cilbir (Turkish poached eggs) and 16-hour steak sandwich are excellent alternatives for those less inclined to a sweet breakfast.

In the cabinet you’ll find freshly made baked goods, from cheese scones to sammies for on the go, as well as some familiar local names about the place – including Wolf Coffee Roasters, Canyon Brewing and wines from nearby vineyards.

Whether cycling the Frankton trail, out walking the dog or looking for a road-trip stopover, The Boat Shed Cafe is a hub for locals and visitors to gather all year round, take a moment to recharge and soak up the world-class setting.