Michelin Guide lands in NZ — 110 restaurants, 1 Queenstown star

The Michelin Guide has touched down in New Zealand for the first time, and Queenstown is on the list. Of the 110 restaurants recognized across the country, one Queenstown establishment has received a star — putting the resort town firmly on the global food map just as the winter ski season peaks. For visitors and locals alike, this transforms a ski trip into a culinary destination experience.

**Q: Which Queenstown restaurant got a Michelin star?** **A: As of the July 2026 announcement, one Queenstown restaurant received a star, though the specific name was not confirmed in early reports. The full list includes 110 restaurants across New Zealand, with stars awarded in Auckland, Wellington, and the regions. Queenstown's inclusion signals a major shift for the town's food scene.**

“This is a massive moment for New Zealand hospitality,” says a spokesperson from the Michelin Guide. “Queenstown has long been known for its adventure tourism, but now its dining scene is getting the recognition it deserves.” The guide's debut follows years of speculation and is expected to drive food-focused tourism, especially among high-spending international visitors already drawn to the ski fields.

For those hitting the slopes at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables today, this means après-ski just got a lot more interesting. Reservations at the starred restaurant — and other highly rated spots — are likely to become harder to secure as word spreads. Local foodies are already buzzing about which Queenstown venue made the cut, with bets on known fine-dining heavyweights like Rātā or Amisfield.

Looking ahead, the Michelin effect is expected to boost Queenstown's winter tourism economy significantly, with culinary tourists booking trips specifically to eat at recognized restaurants. If you haven't booked dinner yet, do it now — before the rest of the world catches on.