People sitting outside Fergburger in Queenstown
Eat and drink

Cheap eats in Queenstown

Guide by Roxanne de Bruyn

Last Updated 12 April 2023

Discover the delightful and wallet-friendly dining options that Queenstown, New Zealand, has to offer.

This bustling adventure town has plenty of eateries that serve up delicious flavours without breaking the bank. In between the trendy restaurants and fine-dining legends, you'll find affordable yet satisfying dining experiences that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

Here are some of the best budget-friendly restaurants in Queenstown, where you can expect great food, warm hospitality, and a cosy atmosphere—all at a price that leaves you smiling.

The Meat Preachers

BBQ restaurant in Frankton

Selection of food at Meat Preachers

Meat Preachers is a South American-style BBQ restaurant located in Frankton's shopping hub. The generous portions of food make this exceptionally good value for money. Expect slow-cooked meat on burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and salads for lunch.

Open for lunch and dinner, with tapas and sharing platters available after 5 pm. With a kids' menu, takeaway options, and good-sized portions, it's a great place for a casual meal. Note that the Meat Preachers doesn't have a liquor licence and doesn't serve alcohol.

Taco Medic

Tacos in Queenstown

Tacos, nachos and beer at Taco Medic

For a family-friendly, quick meal, visit Taco Medic, inspired by Puerto Escondido's beach taqueria stalls. Enjoy freshly made corn tortillas topped with local ingredients, as well as margaritas, local craft beer, and wine.

Fergburger

Burgers in Queenstown

The Big Al burger from Fergburger

At Fergburger, a Queenstown icon since 2001, treat yourself to massive, gourmet burgers in a lively atmosphere. With cheerful staff and limited outdoor seating, it’s worth calling ahead to order and skip the queue. And yes, the experience lives up to the hype.

Caribe Latin Kitchen

Latin American food in Queenstown

Plates of food at Caribe Latin Kitchen

Caribe Latin Kitchen offers Latin American food and cheap eats in the heart of Queenstown. Enjoy takeaway or delivery with dishes like tapas, quesadillas, tacos, burritos, and arepas.

Grab a beer, margarita, or tequila to accompany your meal, and satisfy your sweet tooth with churros.

I love KIMCHI

Korean restaurant in Queenstown

A bowl of seafood noodle soup at I love Kimchi in Queenstown

Easily the best Korean restaurant in Queenstown, I Love Kimchi offers delicious dishes like bibimbap, Korean BBQ, noodles, and fried chicken. With good service and a central location, this popular spot is perfect for walk-ins. The kitchen is usually open relatively late, but be aware that you have to order sides separately.

Fogo Brazilian BBQ

Brazilian restaurant in Queenstown

A selection of food from Fogo Restaurant

This Brazilian restaurant in central Queenstown is a meat lover's dream. To keep prices down, go for the $20 Brazilian lunch, which includes a BBQ meat of your choice and three sides.

This place is perfect for carnivores, however there are some vegetarian options availanle. The restaurant also offers a kids' menu and great cocktails - try the "make your own Brazilian cocktail" option.

Lokal Kitchen & Bar

Casual restaurant in Fernhill

Pizza with lemon wedge at Lokal Kitchen and Bar

A local favourite in Fernhill, Lokal Kitchen and Bar offers great food, local craft beers, and a casual atmosphere.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this family-friendly restaurant is known for its burgers and hand-rolled pizzas.