Forget the white-water rafting, Queenstown’s newest adventure is for your taste buds.
Queenstown, the heart of New Zealand’s adventure scene, boasts a reputation for adrenaline-pumping activities and breathtaking landscapes. But nestled between Queenstown and the charming historic town of Arrowtown, a new haven for food and wine lovers has emerged – Ayrburn. Forget a single restaurant; Ayrburn is a sprawling precinct on a historic 160-year-old farm, meticulously transformed into a diverse culinary playground.
The quarter boasts expansive, manicured grounds bathed in sunshine, a natural stream trickling serenely, all of it framed by the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Southern Alps. This idyllic setting forms the backdrop for Ayrburn’s thoughtfully scattered venues, each with its own distinct personality and purpose.
Feeling peckish after a day of exploring glaciers or conquering mountain trails? The Woolshed beckons with its warm and inviting ambience, perfect for both indoor and outdoor dining. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed lunch with breathtaking views or a celebratory dinner with friends, The Woolshed’s menu caters to all occasions. They prioritise seasonal fare, showcasing the bounty of New Zealand’s fresh, local produce on their plates.
Perhaps you’re seeking a more intimate experience. The Manure Room, with its intriguing name hinting at its fascinating past life as a Prohibition-era hideaway, offers an elegant and intimate setting for wine tastings. Here, history blends seamlessly with modern indulgence as you sample the award-winning Ayrburn wines, meticulously crafted from Central Otago grapes, alongside delectable bites curated to enhance the flavours.
For those with a sweet tooth, The Dairy is a haven. Featuring rows of handcrafted gelato and sorbet in a variety of delightful flavours, The Diary boasts the perfect afternoon treat or a refreshing end to a delicious meal. Let the stress of sightseeing melt away with a scoop of their signature black forest gelato or the classic salted caramel.
Ayrburn is more than just a collection of restaurants, though. It’s a destination that’s constantly evolving. With exciting new additions planned for 2024, there’s always something new to discover. Food enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the arrival of Billy’s, a luxurious flagship restaurant promising a truly experiential dining adventure. Each room within Billy’s will boast its own unique theme, further enriching the overall experience.
And if sophistication is the goal, The Barrel Room beckons. This moody and intimate space, lined with wine barrels and sporting a lavish fit-out complete with a baby grand piano, promises to be an adult playground where time seems to melt away as you indulge in great food and wine.
But Ayrburn caters to more than just fine dining. Casual options are also on the horizon, with The Bakehouse specializing in pizzas and pastas, perfect for a relaxed family meal or a night out with friends. RM’s Butcher will soon provide a one-stop shop for high-quality meats, allowing you to take a piece of Ayrburn’s culinary magic home with you.
Beyond the individual venues, Ayrburn boasts a spacious outdoor area called The Dell. Here, the rolling green lawns become a canvas for hosting a variety of events and entertainment, from lively farmers’ markets to captivating outdoor concerts. Envision yourself lounging on the grass with a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir in hand, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and soaking in the stunning scenery.
Ayrburn isn’t just another stop on a tourist itinerary; it’s a destination in itself. The vision behind Ayrburn is clear: to create a space that celebrates the best of New Zealand’s food, wine, and hospitality in a setting of unparalleled natural beauty. As developer Chris Meehan himself proclaims, “Ayrburn is a testament to our dedication to crafting exceptional places. It’s not just a destination; it’s an invitation to experience the best of New Zealand’s food, wine, and hospitality, in a place chosen 160 years ago for being one of the country’s most naturally stunning locations.”
So, next time you find yourself in Queenstown, be sure to venture beyond the adventure hotspots and discover the tranquillity that awaits at Ayrburn. With its meticulous attention to detail, from the heritage farm’s sensitive redesign to the diverse range of culinary offerings, Ayrburn is poised to become a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of New Zealand’s vibrant food and wine scene.