The Bunker

If there’s one place you have time to pop into to for dinner in Queenstown it should be The Bunker.

Situated in a discreet little lane off the beaten track, The Bunker offers a cosy and intimate room to dine in, plus a dedicated bar upstairs.

At the end of a day skiing (or trying to ski) the soothing warmth of the fire as you relax on huge leather sofas with a cool drink is nothing short of bliss.

If you’re in need of a bite to eat, bookings are normally essential unless you’re lucky enough to catch a space in their schedule late into the evening. The 5 or 6 tables they do have are normally full from opening ’til close, testament to the skill and reputation of owner/chef Cameron Mitchell.

I would recommend the sautéed tiger prawns with sweetbread tortellini and citrus beurre noir as a starter, the slow roasted belly of pork with kumara mash, watercress, mustard remoulade and caramel jus for your main, and if you have a sweet tooth like me, try the fondu for two for dessert. Besides The Bunker’s exceptional wine list, much of which hails from local Central Otago Vineyards, try the Lynchburg Lemonade if you’re in need of a refreshing drink.

The Bunker Restaurant and Bar, Cow Lane, Queenstown. + 3 441 8030; http://www.thebunker.co.nz/