Queenstown isn’t just about adrenaline rides and breathtaking scenery — it’s also a fantastic food and drink hub. If you’re craving an authentic local lunch, you’re in luck. Whether it’s soaring over Milford Sound and enjoying a scenic cruise with included lunch or sipping world-class wines in boutique vineyards, Queenstown offers a range of memorable midday experiences. Among our favorites is the Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown — a half-day adventure combining jaw-dropping aerial views with a relaxing cruise. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to see one of New Zealand’s most iconic sights in style and comfort.
Queenstown is famed for its scenery, but its top-tier lunch options make the most of this backdrop, blending scenic beauty with culinary delight. Whether you prefer a wine tasting tour, a scenic flight, or a gourmet food experience, this list has something for every taste and schedule. We’ve ranked these tours based on their uniqueness, reviews, and overall value, helping you find the best way to dine in Queenstown.
1. Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown (incl Lunch)
The ** Milford Sound Flight and Cruise** is a standout for combining two of Queenstown’s most impressive attractions in one seamless experience. In just about five hours, you’ll enjoy a 35-minute scenic flight over Fiordland, including views of Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, and the Southern Alps. After landing, you’ll board a reserved cruise on Milford Sound, with live commentary sharing insights into the fjord’s natural wonders. Lunch is included, making it a full, hassle-free adventure.
This tour is exceptional for its time-saving convenience — you skip hours of driving while still soaking in incredible scenery from the air and water. Reviewers love the professional service, with many noting the safety and friendliness of the pilot and crew. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, compact experience that packs in both scenic flights and a cruise. The value is high, given the included lunch and all the exclusive views.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, stunning overview of Milford Sound with a luxurious touch, this is hard to beat.
2. Premium Small-Group Wine Tour, 4 Wineries, Lunch from Queenstown
For those who prefer wine over waterfalls, the Premium Small-Group Wine Tour is a delightful way to taste Central Otago’s best. This five-and-a-half-hour tour takes you into the heart of wine country, visiting four boutique wineries and enjoying a light platter lunch with a glass of wine at a local vineyard. The small-group format (limited to 12 people) ensures plenty of personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Traveling through lush valleys and historic sites, you’ll hear stories from your guide about the pioneering spirit of the region. Reviewers praise the quality of tastings and the intimate vibe. Notably, the lunch and tastings are generous, offering excellent value for the price. It’s suited for wine lovers who want an immersive, relaxed experience with insider access to some of Otago’s hidden gems.
Bottom Line: A great pick for wine connoisseurs and those craving a laid-back, authentic tasting day.
3. Queenstown Wine & Food Tour: Scenery, Tastings & Delicious Lunch!
This tour combines Queenstown’s fine wine and local cuisine into one flavorful experience. Over approximately five and a half hours, you’ll visit three boutique wineries in the Kawarau Gorge, exploring the region’s unique varietals. The highlight is the a la carte lunch at a local restaurant, paired with premium wines, offering a true taste of Otago’s culinary scene.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on pairing wines with regional ingredients in a relaxed setting. The small-group approach ensures you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate experience. Reviewers love the delicious food paired with wine and the beautiful scenic drives between wineries.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies and wine lovers who want to experience Queenstown’s winemaking alongside a gourmet lunch.
4. Queenstown: Milford Sound Small-Group Tour w Cruise & Lunch
At number 4 on our list, this full-day Milford Sound experience offers a more expansive look at Fiordland. Traveling in a small group, you’ll go from Queenstown through Te Anau and Fiordland National Park, with stops for photos and sightseeing. The cruise on Milford Sound includes a lunch and breathtaking views of waterfalls, Mitre Peak, and possibly local wildlife.
This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive day trip that balances scenic drives, boat cruising, and scenic stops. Many reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the comfort of the vehicle, making it an enjoyable, hassle-free day. The option of including lunch makes it a solid value for those wanting to maximize their Milford Sound experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want an all-inclusive day with scenic landscapes, cruise, and good food.
5. Queenstown: Wine & Food Tour, Scenic Tastings & Paired Lunch
This half-day tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of Queenstown’s wine scene along with a delicious paired lunch. Visiting three boutique wineries, the tour includes hosted tastings and a lunch that combines regional flavors with fine wines. It’s designed to be relaxed, informative, and flavorful.
Guides share stories behind each wine and the region’s history, while the lunch complements the tastings beautifully. With a focus on small-group intimacy, you’ll leave with a good understanding of Otago’s wine culture and some memorable flavors. Reviewers mention the delicious food and the knowledgeable host as major highlights.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting an all-in-one tasting, sightseeing, and dining experience in Queenstown.
6. Premium Milford Sound Tour Including Cruise, Flight & Lunch
For travelers wanting the full Milford Sound experience, this premium full-day tour combines coach travel, a scenic flight, and a cruise. The journey kicks off with a scenic coach ride through Fiordland, followed by a flight over the mountains (offering views impossible from the ground). The cruise includes lunch and the chance to see Stirling Falls and Mitre Peak from the water.
Guests rave about the balanced itinerary and the impressive views from the air. The luxury aspect and the inclusion of a lunch make this a top-tier choice for travelers seeking comfort, efficiency, and spectacular scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a luxurious, all-in-one Milford Sound day with plenty of photo opportunities.
7. Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tastings
This six-and-a-half-hour experience focuses on local cuisine paired with fine wines. Visiting four premium vineyards, you’ll explore regional wine styles and enjoy a wine and cheese pairing in the iconic largest underground wine cave at Gibbston Valley. The lunch features a cooked meal paired with local wines, making it a true gourmet’s delight.
Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the variety of tastings. The tour is suited for foodies who want to pair culinary delights with Otago’s best wines, all in a comfortable, guided setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for serious food and wine enthusiasts who value high-quality pairings and thorough regional insights.
8. Milford Sound Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch
This small-group, full-day tour offers a relaxed pace with multiple scenic stops. Starting with views of Lake Wakatipu and Fiordland, you’ll travel in comfort by a premium Sprinter van, with stops at Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, and more. The cruise includes a picnic lunch amid the stunning scenery. The focus here is on personalized attention and immersive natural experiences.
Many reviews highlight the informative guide and beautiful landscapes seen along the way. The intimate nature of the tour makes it ideal for travelers who want to explore without feeling rushed, with plenty of chances for photos and wildlife sightings.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager for a personalized, scenic journey with a relaxed, picnic-style lunch.
How to Choose
When deciding between these lunch experiences, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For instance, if soaring over the mountains appeals to you, the Milford Sound Flight and Cruise offers a quick yet spectacular overview. For wine lovers, the Small-Group Wine Tour provides intimate tastings. If a full day exploring Milford Sound from multiple angles sounds best, the Premium Milford Sound Tour is unbeatable.
Think about your fitness level and interest in nature or cuisine. Tours with longer durations or more walking, like the Gourmet Food and Wine Tour, suit those who want a relaxed pace. Meanwhile, shorter, more luxurious options like the Milford Sound Flight and Cruise are perfect for tight schedules.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Milford Sound flights or small-group wine tours, to secure your preferred date and time.
Final Thoughts
Queenstown offers an impressive array of lunch experiences, from quick scenic flights to in-depth wine tastings and gourmet culinary adventures. For breathtaking views combined with a touch of luxury, the Milford Sound Flight and Cruise remains a top choice. If wine tasting is your thing, the Small-Group Wine Tour provides an intimate and flavorful journey. And for those who want to indulge in local cuisine paired with Otago wines, the Gourmet Food and Wine Tour hits all the right notes.
No matter your style or schedule, Queenstown’s lunch experiences promise memorable moments, stunning scenery, and a true taste of New Zealand. Be sure to book early, and prepare to enjoy every bite and view this incredible destination has to offer.