Wharf Bar

On the edge of Lake Whakatipu, the lakefront path steps around weatherboard boat sheds perched on the edge of Steamer Wharf, a site that’s been central to the beating heart of Queenstown for more than a century and a half. Now home to restaurants and bars, the connection to the water still defines the place, and Queenstown Wharf Bar occupies one such building.

From its upstairs vantage point, floor-to-ceiling windows keep the lake, the layered greens of the gardens across the bay and the jagged mountain contours rising beyond in constant view. It’s the sort of scene that can stop conversation, and leave you with a sore neck from craning to take it all in (unless you’ve nabbed a seat at the low wooden leaner that wraps around the room). Afternoon light bathes the space in a warm glow, and as evening rolls in the mood shifts gently with it.

The smell of an incoming woodfired sourdough pizza might be enough to pull your nose from the glass. With an Italian-Asian-inspired menu covering all appetites from antipasti to big plates, Wharf Bar does the classics well, though you’ll find a zany twist on more than one of the dishes. Shared plates keep things moving across the table, while the bar handles everything from local beers and wines to signature cocktails.

Whether you come for a pizza and pint or pinot, the atmosphere makes it easy to linger. Before you know it, hours have slipped by – along with the TSS Earnslaw, right under your nose.