Where To Plan Your Queenstown Date Night

Treat your significant other to a night of beautiful flavours, boozy cocktails and beautiful views; Tatsumi has it all. The modern Japanese restaurant explores the fusion of traditional flavours and contemporary cuisine. Start the night off with a delicious drink in hand; the range of classic cocktails is irresistible. 

Dabble in the likes of the Dragon, a sweet yet boozy concoction that features Midori, lychee liqueur, Momo peach liqueur and pineapple juice. When it comes time to eat, dine upon Japanese Wagyu beef sashimi, Hokkaido scallop sushi and grilled king prawn skewers.

There is nothing more romantic than a night out at The Bunker; we are talking candlelight and a crackling fire. The rustic restaurant focuses on locally sourced produce with European and Kiwi flavours. The al la carte menu showcases the fresh seafood and delicious game found in the South. Tantalise the taste buds with oysters, smoked Canterbury ostrich and yellowfin tuna with blue cod Crudo and coconut caviar. 

End the night on a sweet note with a dark chocolate fondant with salted caramel and cherry curds. The Bunker also has expertly crafted cocktails that cannot be missed; the cocktail too many kisses seems fitting for a night of romance. Combining Absolut vodka, mixed berries, fresh passionfruit, kiwi fruit, lime and apple.

Rātā is a beautiful and welcoming restaurant that never ceases to amaze; with a forest wall and wooden accents, it is easily the most tranquil spot for dinner. Whether you visit for date nights, family outings or work functions, this is our go-to. Rātā proudly displays the best New Zealand has to offer, from diverse cultural traditions to fresh quality produce and ingredients. 

Share a few light snacks before the main course, we recommend the duck parfait profiteroles, Bluff oysters and Ruakaka Pāua. For dinner, you cannot go wrong with the black origin oyster blade; short ribs with spring onion, kohlrabi and ponzu.

Dinner with a view? Botswana Butchery offers scenic views of the lake and mountain range, a breathtaking backdrop to your date night. Throw in a roaring log fire or two, and what more could you want? 

Botswana Butchery is the ultimate date night location for food enthusiasts; get something straight from the butcher’s block like the Wakanui biltong cured scotch fillet, Alpine merino lamb rack and Sanchoku wagyu scotch fillet. The menu is incredibly indulgent and has something to suit every preference, from the sea to the land, you will not be disappointed. Pair dinner with a beautiful wine that compliments the dish or enjoy a nice cold beer.

Tanoshi is an intimate and authentic Japanese teppan and sake bar. It will take your dining experience to a whole new level, offering entertainment and delectable fare. What is more romantic than sharing food with the one you love? Tanoshi has a swoon-worthy tapa selection. 

The bangbang is divine, with tender chicken, mung beans and sesame dressing. Another crowd-pleaser is the gyu tatkal; seared ribeye served rare with roasted garlic flakes. When visiting Tanoshi, you must try the range of sake and Japanese whiskey; the flavours are unforgettable.

Luxury and indulgence come in spades when you dine at No5 Church Lane. The sleek interior and dreamy menu will give diners a taste of the finer things in life. Each dish is utter perfection, from the flavours to textures and style. The wild shot venison with beetroot purée and horopito foam is one of our favourite dishes and easily displays the talent of No5 Church Lane. 

Share a bottle of wine from our very own land or try something international. For dessert, we highly recommend the rhubarb apple pie deep-fried with horopito caramel sauce, calvados flambé and gingernut ice cream.