Queenstown might be known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, but it also has a café culture that rivals its mountains and lakes for star power. From lakefront brunch spots to cosy local haunts, our Aotea staff share their personal favourites. These recommendations come from locals who live, work, and play in Queenstown, so you can skip the guesswork and head straight to the good coffee!

Central Queenstown – The Heart of It All

Right in the heart of town, Queenstown’s café scene is buzzing with energy. Whether you’re starting your day before a lake cruise or looking for a brunch spot after a stroll through the gardens, these central cafés are local favourites.

Queenstown Bakery

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For a true Kiwi bakery experience, Queenstown Bakery delivers all the classics – from potato top pies and cheese scones to sausage rolls. A friendly spot with daily specials, it’s perfect if you’re after a cozy, traditional New Zealand treat.

“Always welcomes every customer with a smile, great tasting pie with a large range of flavours, all freshly made each day. The coffee is the best in town and always has a special coffee plus cafe or pie of the day at set prices.” – Kevin, Ireland, 14 years in NZ

McKibbon’s of Royalburn

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Just outside central Queenstown, McKibbon’s is a unique grocery store with a cafe inside. Expect fresh local produce, quality NZ-made foods, and delicious lunches like focaccia sandwiches, alongside excellent coffee.

“I highly recommend McKibbon’s of Royalburn’s in-store cafe. It is a normal grocery store, when you step inside, it has a unique local atmosphere where you can find very high-quality NZ-made food, fresh local veggies, fruits, dairy, and meats. Inside, they have a cafe where their coffee is amazing and the staff are friendly.” – Yuki, Japan, 33 years in NZ

Fergbakery

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Sister to the world-famous Fergburger, this bakery is an unmissable stop. Hidden just beside the burger shop (sometimes behind the long queue), it’s filled with everything from classic Kiwi pies and almond croissants to Boston cream donuts. Insider tip: while your friend holds a place in the Fergburger line, sneak next door for a coffee and sweet treat.

“The quality and taste is really amazing! You can say this is the best food and dessert in the world!” – Aya, Japan, 2 months in NZ

Patagonia Chocolates

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Right by the lakefront, Patagonia Chocolates is famous for its handmade chocolates and award-winning ice cream. Their chocolates make perfect gifts, and if you forget to pick some up in town, you can even grab them at the airport before flying out.

“The cafe is right by the lake, so you can enjoy beautiful views while you relax. They also have handmade chocolates and award-winning ice cream.” – Phoebe, China, 8 months in NZ

Bespoke Kitchen

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Nestled on the hill less than five minutes’ walk from central Queenstown, Bespoke Kitchen overlooks the bay and the Remarkables. It’s always buzzing with a cosy, relaxed vibe, and is well-loved for its vegetarian and vegan options.

“One of the best coffees plus yummy foods to bring the friends.” – Kumi, Japan, 35 years in NZ

Vudu Cafe & Larder

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This long-standing local favourite is right by the lake, serving fresh, creative dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s particularly known for its banana and maple pancakes and strong coffee.

“The coffee is great and the food is fresh and creative, especially the banana and maple pancakes are very good. The atmosphere is very comfortable, has a beautiful lake view, and it’s often listed as one of the best cafes in Queenstown.” – Yan, China, 1.5 years in NZ

Balls and Bangles

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Just around the corner from Aotea Gifts Queenstown, this fun bakery-cafe is known for freshly made donut balls with outrageous toppings and flavours. They also make one of the best bagels in town – the BGLT is a must-try.

“This cafe is very close to the Aotea Gifts shop and has the best sandwiches in Queenstown. The BGLT bagel is to die for!” – Ethan, England, 5 months in NZ

Marmolada Café

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Conveniently located by the Station Building, the main visitor hub where buses to the ski fields depart so Marmolada offers the ideal pause before or after your alpine adventures.

“It's one of the most tasty coffee in the whole town! I like this place also because its not that crowded, so perfect for some me time (journaling, work, etc) with a lovely service!” – Maya, Czech Republic, 3 years in NZ

Lindt Chocolate Café

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The renowned Swiss chocolatier opened its Queenstown store in early 2025, just around the corner from Aotea Gifts Mall. Inside, you’ll find walls of chocolate alongside a hot bar serving indulgent drinks, cold treats, and gelatos made with their signature chocolate. It’s the ultimate spot for chocolate lovers.

“I love their hot chocolate; it’s the best hot chocolate in town, in my opinion. I would highly suggest trying out their hazelnut hot chocolate with whipped cream on top.” – Nuha, Sri Lanka, 3 years in NZ

“Hazelnut hot chocolate or mocha.” – Camila, Chile, 2 years in NZ

“They have good hot chocolate.” – Edith, China, 4 months in NZ

QRC Café – A Student Favourite in Queenstown

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Tucked inside the Queenstown Resort College, QRC Café is a hidden gem loved by locals and students alike. It’s affordable, relaxed, and makes for the perfect pit stop before or after exploring the lakefront. Right around the corner from the café, you’ll find the Queenstown Gardens, a beautiful free attraction for both locals and visitors. Stroll along the water’s edge, admire the rose gardens, or simply enjoy a quiet picnic with mountain views. If you’re feeling more active, try a round of frisbee golf or head to the nearby ice rink for a skate.

“QRC cafe is a cozy spot located within the Queenstown Resort College (QRC). So popular among students. When I visited, I got a slice of banana cake for just $3! It's close to the Queenstown Gardens and has a relaxing outdoor deck. ” – Kentaro, Japan, 4 months in NZ

Frankton – Perfect If You’re By the Airport

Frankton is more than just a place to pass through. With new cafés and eateries popping up around Five Mile and Remarkables Park, it’s the perfect place to grab a coffee if you’re coming or going from the airport.

Billy’s Espresso

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Located in Queenstown Central Shopping Centre by the airport, Billy’s Espresso is a convenient stop with friendly service and hearty cabinet food. It’s a local go-to, especially with easy public transport access right outside.

“It is next to the bus stop at Queenstown Central, by the airport, where they have a range of shops and restaurants. They have good meals and friendly staff.” – Ibai, Spain, 1 year in NZ

“I recommend Billy’s because they have a great selection of cabinet food (cheese scone is a must) and they offer filter coffee apart from all the barista options.” – Tomas, Argentina, 7 years in NZ

“I am a total foodie. Billy is super local and all about taste. Billy’s coffee stands out as you can taste the quality of the beans, and every cup just hits differently! The food is super yummy too and totally worth the price.” – Xi, China, 3.5 years in NZ

Life’s a Grind Espresso

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If you’re after a quick and satisfying coffee on the go, Life’s a Grind Espresso is a top pick.

“It is a cool cute little coffee van in Queenstown! Their flat white and latte are smooth and rich! This is top 1 in town, you shouldn't miss it!" – Lynette, China, 2 years in NZ

Eatery by Franks

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A relaxed local’s cafe located under the Ramada Hotel in Frankton, just a short drive from Queenstown Central. Known for its smooth coffee, friendly vibe, and even unique drinks like a charcoal latte, it’s a go-to for both locals and visitors looking for a quieter spot.

“I recommend this cafe because they make the best latte art and the flat white is the best! Super smooth. The atmosphere there is also wonderful!” – Yi Shen, China, 1.5 years in NZ

“They have charcoal latte! I love it! (Also great for Instagram)” – Tomona, Japan, 6 years in NZ

Boatshed Café & Bakery

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Perched by the water with breathtaking views of the Remarkables and Queenstown Marina, Boatshed Café & Bakery has become a new local's favourite. A cosy mix of delicious eats and spectacular scenery, it’s perfect for a leisurely Queenstown morning.

“Boatshed cafe has become my favourite cafe in QT- It not only offers delicious food and pastries (Choux Donuts to die for!) But it also provides an amazing view of the Remarkables and Queenstown Marina! It's a perfect laid-back pot to relax and people watch!” – Kathrine, Philippines, 2.5 years in NZ

Boatshed Cafe & Bistro

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Situated right on Frankton Road with stunning lake views, just around the corner from the Boatshed Cafe & Bakery, Boatshed Cafe & Bistro is a dreamy stop year-round. It’s fresh and airy in summer and cosy in winter, making it a favourite for both tourists and locals. The café’s popularity means you’ll want to head there early to snag a lakeside seat!

“Near the water, you have stunning views over the landscape. Fresh in the summer and cozy in winter. Not to mention the great coffee and desserts.” – Damiela, Portugal, 8 months in NZ

Odelay Cafe

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A hidden gem in Frankton, Odelay is loved by locals for its relaxed vibe, mountain views, and creative brunch menu. Close to Eatery by Franks and with plenty of parking, it’s also near the Remarkables Market, a must-visit on Saturdays.

“Odelay cafe is a hidden gem in Frankton, just outside Queenstown’s busy centre. It’s a cozy, local spot with a relaxed vibe, great Allpress coffee, and a creative brunch menu.” – Naiding, China, 2 years in NZ

Black Lab Coffee Roasters

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For the serious coffee drinkers, Black Lab Coffee Roasters is unmissable. Known for roasting and distributing their own premium, ethically sourced beans across the region, this spot gives you the rare chance to sip coffee straight from the roasters themselves. “The best quality coffee producer in QT! If you're really into your coffee, you can't miss this one!” says Alexis from China, who has been living in New Zealand for 1.5 years. 

“The best quality coffee producer in QT! If you're really into your coffee, you can't miss this one!” – Alexis, China, 1.5 years in NZ

Outer Queenstown & Day Trips

Grain and Seed Cafe (Cromwell)

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An hour’s drive from Queenstown, this Cromwell gem sits in the historic Cromwell Heritage Precinct overlooking Lake Dunstan. The building dates back to the 1840s and was once a working grain and seed store, adding to its charm.

“Located in Cromwell Heritage Precinct with unique buildings and a nice lake view. Usually it’s a very quiet place for enjoying the view of Lake Dunstan.” – Judith, China, 1.5 years in NZ

Queenstown’s café scene is as diverse as the town itself - from lakefront brunches to airport stopovers and road trip pit-stops, there’s something for every mood and moment. What makes these spots special is hearing directly from locals who’ve made Queenstown home.

Want the insider scoop on other local recommendations around New Zealand? Check out our other Aotea Green Guide articles for Auckland, Christchurch, and Tekapo.