Where Queenstown Hangs Out

Queenstown favourite Public is a friendly Kitchen & Bar space by Wai, the minds behind Finz, Coalfire & Bella Cucina. “We really wanted to do something very relaxed this time,” says co-owner Jan Rae, “somewhere we could all go to hang out, grab a bite, or listen to a band.”

Taking a break from fine dining, chefs Martin James and Stephen Clayton looked to their roots and came up with a simple honest menu that highlights local produce. Therefore everything at Public is either “caught on their doorstep, hunted in the hills, or foraged fresh from local farms”.

Free Range Fare

You can tell the Queenstown fam is tight as all the suppliers are on first name terms on Public's menu. The venison is wild shot by Callam at Fair Game, while all the garden greens come from Tony The Rocketman.

Cardrona Valley lamb is served up in 5 different ways, including a slow cooked stuffed belly, a baked rack with mint pesto, or rump with cabbage, bacon and peas. Pork loin farmed in Geraldine is served with honey & mustard, apple & tarragon salsa.

Many dishes pay homage to recipes passed down from the mothers and grandmothers of the owners, so expect hearty fare that feels like home.

“My mother was actually a hopeless cook,” says chef Martin, “and that was the reason I decided to become a chef. Her only really good dish was homemade trifle which is why we’ve included it on the Public menu. It’s quite amazing.”

Public is right on the waterfront, so the stunning views are a hit for travellers. Inside the bar the focal point is a distinctive original red telephone box.

“All of our decor really reflects our tastes as owners.” says Jan “So the furniture and props are things we love that we’ve collected from all over.”

Bands & Beers

Public's bar has a great selection of Central Otago wines and many local craft beers. “We’re very proud to be the only place in town that has Queenstown Brewers on tap!” says Jan

Those pints are best served with live music so head down to Public every Sunday from 2-5pm to hear a rotating cast of Queenstown's best including Paul Shipman and Cole, Dom Hazzell, Pol and Fiona and Chad and Shay.