Yonder

Come as you are. The neon-lit invitation above Yonder’s entranceway is more than just an aesthetic. These words encapsulate the establishment’s entire personality and community vision. From delicious dishes that cater to every dietary requirement to a diverse events calendar to entertain all interests, inclusivity runs through the veins of this cafe/bar/restaurant/events venue/arts hub (seriously, don’t even try and put them in a box).

Sitting next door to their sibling, World Bar, Yonder is housed in the heritage-listed McNeils Cottage. The historic space is complemented with electric décor and clever chameleon-like characteristics, where modular elements shift and change to make space for any kind of event. What was a table during brunch this morning, may now host a full crowd cheering on bands, burlesque dancers, comedians, DJs, or authors launching books. It’s no wonder then that they’ve taken home Queenstown’s Outstanding Ambience and Design award twice and been named a finalist for New Zealand's Best Late Night/Live Entertainment Venue.

Before anyone takes to the stage, the spotlight shines brightly on the food and drinks offering. The legendary stack of vegan buckwheat blueberry and lemon pancakes alone is reason enough that Yonder receives encore after encore from even the most discerning brunch-goer. Come dinnertime, there’s an assortment of tasty dishes perfect for sharing between friends – but you can be sure the famed slow-cooked beef brisket will make an appearance on every meat lover’s table. To accompany your meal, there’s a playful array of cocktails, 12 of New Zealand’s best craft beer on tap and a lovely selection of wine – all to be enjoyed in a cosy nook inside or out in the all-weather beer garden.

While Queenstown needs no extra help when it comes to opening the door to exciting adventure, the team here has built a gathering place for the whole community, where culture and creativity flourishes on both the plate and stage. And we reckon that’s just as thrilling.