Famous Cocktails and Where to Find Them

There are many destination cocktail bars in Queenstown, with cocktails named according to the establishment’s menu, setting or history, as well as the more traditional favourites available on request.

Mulled wine, the perfect balance of spices, red wine and fruit is a true European favourite and during winter, mulled wine can be found in most pubs and bars, as it’s considered a staple for the all-important après-ski. Some bars even do a tangy mulled berry cider or ginger beer for something a little different.

Many of Queenstown’s bars have become experts at exquisite espresso martinis, which originally hail from bustling London, but find themselves particularly welcome on a night out in Queenstown. The Bunker bar, Sundeck and Little Blackwood are a few of the bars famous for their espresso martinis.

Spicy, tangy or mild, a Bloody Mary is an acquired taste and on the menu at many bars along the lakefront that offer brunch to blow out the cobwebs after a night out. You can find great Bloody Mary's all over town, we recommend trying out Yonder and pairing it with something delicious from their brunch menu.

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A couple sat at a table enjoying cocktails and brunch at Yonder cafe in Queenstown

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(1) Little Blackwood, (2) Yonder

Queenstown is home to a number of fabulous Mexican restaurants, Baja, Margo's and Caribe to name a few. To compliment your spicy Mexican meal, make sure you order a refreshing margarita frozen, blended or on the rocks garnished with salt or sugar.

Birdy is home to the world-famous money shot. This creamy banana cocktail is a staple menu item year-round and a destination cocktail for visitors and locals alike.

The classic shaken not stirred martini is served fresh and often at Little Blackwood, Tamarind by No. 5 Church Lane, Eichardt's Bar and The Bunker Bar. Many more bars in Queenstown have the classic cocktails available, you just have to ask.

Arrowtown icon, The Blue Door, is famous for its weekly tiny room concerts, as well as the classic Whisky Sour. Find the ubiquitous painted door and enter a local’s favourite.

Bartender mixing a cocktail at The Blue Door bar in Arrowtown.

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(1) The Blue Door, Image: Miles Holden, (2) Eichardt's Bar

For something a bit different, head to one of Queenstown’s three ice bars, and enjoy a cocktail from an ice glass, sitting in an ice car or patting an ice polar bear. Both spots have specialised cocktail lists, with the biggest challenge not being how many you can try, rather how long you can stay inside the -5 degree bar.