
The Boat Shed Cafe
A charming cafe set in a historic building, offering delicious meals and coffee with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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The Boat Shed Cafe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming cafe set in a historic building, offering delicious meals and coffee with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu.
"Experience culinary excellence with picturesque views at this Queenstown gem."
Book Outdoor Seating
Reserve your table in advance for the best chance of securing outdoor seating with prime lake views.
Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot by arriving early, especially during peak hours.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Cafe
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+64 3 441 4146
Address
9300/847 Frankton Road, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Website
boatshedqueenstown.co.nz/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Breathtaking Lake Views
Savor your meal with stunning panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range from the outdoor seating area.

Blueberry French Toast
Indulge in the decadent blueberry French toast, topped with honey mascarpone and seasonal fruit. A must-try!

Chorizo Scramble
A flavorful start to the day with scrambled eggs, spicy chorizo, crispy potatoes, and fresh salsa.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Outdoor Seating
Reserve your table in advance for the best chance of securing outdoor seating with prime lake views.
Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot by arriving early, especially during peak hours.
Try Recommended Dishes
Don't miss out on visitor favorites like the Chorizo Scramble or the Mushroom Pasta.
Consider Water Taxi
Enhance your experience by arriving via water taxi from Queenstown city center.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Outdoor Seating
Reserve your table in advance for the best chance of securing outdoor seating with prime lake views.
Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot by arriving early, especially during peak hours.
Try Recommended Dishes
Don't miss out on visitor favorites like the Chorizo Scramble or the Mushroom Pasta.
Consider Water Taxi
Enhance your experience by arriving via water taxi from Queenstown city center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about The Boat Shed Cafe's stunning lake views and delicious, locally sourced dishes, particularly highlighting the French toast and Eggs Benedict. While many praise the warm atmosphere and attentive service, some patrons have noted issues with menu changes affecting dish quality and the prominence of gratuity suggestions.
"Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Wakatipu, The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro in Queenstown offers a dining experience that seamlessly combines picturesque views with culinary excellence. Whether you arrive by strolling along the Frankton Track or docking at the Frankton Marina, this charming establishment promises a warm welcome and a memorable meal. 
The cafe’s seasonal menu showcases the finest locally sourced produce, catering to a variety of palates. Breakfast enthusiasts can indulge in dishes like the decadent blueberry French toast, adorned with honey mascarpone, crème anglaise, seasonal fruit, and candied nuts. For a savory option, the chorizo scramble offers a delightful mix of scrambled eggs, pork chorizo, crispy potatoes, greens, tomato salsa, and feta. Lunch options are equally enticing, with offerings such as the sesame-crusted seared tuna tataki, complemented by wakame, edamame, broccolini, radish, mung beans, and miso mayo.  
Patrons consistently praise the cafe’s inviting atmosphere and attentive service. The outdoor seating area, in particular, provides breathtaking views of the lake and the Remarkables mountain range, creating an idyllic setting for a leisurely meal. One reviewer noted, “The food was excellent! Great atmosphere and view of the lake, friendly staff!” 
To fully enjoy the experience, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially if you prefer outdoor seating with lake views. Arriving early can also help secure a prime spot and ensure prompt service during peak hours. 
In summary, The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro stands out as a must-visit destination in Queenstown, offering delectable cuisine, stunning vistas, and a welcoming ambiance that together create an unforgettable dining experience."
Steve Walker
"Honestly fantastic, I got myself a Truffle pasta, which tasted really good. Maybe a bit too oily but it had good flavor. The latte wasn’t too special in my opinion price wise, but it was alright.
The restaurant itself is very cute on the inside. The outside view will give you a scenery of the lake. The staff is nice, and will check up on you frequently.
Overall experience was great 5/5"
Rafaël Vera Evertman
"Don’t skip breakfast here if you’re in the area! 🍳 The Boat Shed’s buffet was a real treat — fresh options all around, with the fried eggs cooked just right and plenty of other tasty picks to start the day. The place has a relaxed, sunny vibe, and the staff were quick and friendly, which made the morning even better. Overall, a great spot to fuel up and enjoy the view — definitely worth a stop."
Javier Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating with lake views, as the cafe can get busy.
Visitors highly recommend the Blueberry French Toast and the Chorizo Scramble.
Yes, the menu includes vegetarian options, and they can accommodate dietary needs.
Arriving early is advised to secure a prime spot, especially during peak hours.
The cafe is located near Frankton Marina, and there is bike parking out front. For car parking, check local options near the marina.
Yes, arriving by water taxi from Queenstown city center is a fun and scenic option.
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Located in a historic building that dates back to colonial times, The Boatshed Cafe & Bistro is a place to savour rich marina views and classic breakfast offerings. If you’re in before 9:30am, make sure to try the Early Bird Special: two eggs in any style, accompanied by toasted ciabatta and a complimentary cup of coffee (with an upsize option for an extra dollar). Whether you’re a meat lover, dedicated vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free foodie, there’s always something on the menu worth sinking your teeth into at brunch time.
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Set in the restored, historic New Zealand Railways Shipping Office, The Boat Shed’s building dates back to 1869-78 and was originally a store. It was situated in central Queenstown and was moved to its current location on the Frankton waterfront, which can be reached via a leisurely stroll along the Frankton Track or by water taxi from Queenstown Bay. The iconic cafe , beloved by locals, took home the two top café awards at the 2023 Southern Lakes Hospitality Award, winning outstanding café and outstanding barista.
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If you like to enjoy your morning coffee with a view (who doesn’t?), head straight to The Boat Shed Cafe at the Frankton Marina. Set in the restored New Zealand Railways Shipping Office, this quirky yet cosy building is filled with character and dates all the way back to 1869. With relaxed beach house vibes and a delightful menu including blueberry French toast, chorizo scramble, wild mushrooms on sourdough, and a great cheese scone, this is easily one of Queenstown's best brunch spots.
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The Boat Shed Cafe is a genuinely lovely eating spot in a beautiful old boat shed on the waterfront in Nelson, in the north of the South Island. It will win you over with plates of fresh food, many of which star locally caught seafood — think beautiful Bluff oysters served naturally with just a squeeze of lemon ($5.50 each) and roasted whole sand flounder with paprika and lime ($27). You can also choose the Trust the Chef banquet ($70 per person).
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These guys do some of the best food and coffee in town and the biggest bonus is that they’re a short 10 minute stroll along the lakes edge from Driftaway. The menu changes monthly but between all the menu items and the delicious cabinet selection, there most certainly is something for everyone. We love the roasted kumara, potatoes, pan fried brussel sprouts, harissa & walnuts, poached eggs & herb hollandaise paired with a Tumeric Latte.
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When wonderland is the place you call home, there’s a lot worth protecting and preserving. A collective of Queenstown locals are rolling up their sleeves and changing the way they do business to keep the towering mountains, pristine lakes and rich soils of this well-visited land in pristine condition. There’s no doubt this community is in it for the long haul – and their efforts are already making a huge difference in the region.
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Just over an hour's walk, or 45-minute cycle, around the edge of Lake Wakatipu, brings you to Frankton Marina, and the Boat Shed Cafe (boatshedqueenstown.com). With bike parking out the front, and a deck with views of the surrounding mountains, it is a popular choice for weekend breakfast, or one of the cafe's famous sticky buns, a knot of buttery pastry glazed with sugar and rolled in slivered almonds.
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Small but stunning, this converted villa café sells exceptional restaurant / café food paired with great local wines with a deck that drops off into the Wakatipu!. Neither in town nor in Frankton, the Boat Shed is a small eatery about 6kms out of town – direction Frankton. If you didn’t read about it here you would never have stumbled across it unless you were walking the Frankton Trail!
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If you like your coffee with a view (who doesn’t?) head to The Boat Shed Cafe at Sugar Lane in the Frankton Marina. Set in the restored New Zealand Railways Shipping Office, the building dates all the way back to 1869. With relaxed waterfront vibes and a delicious menu including brioche French toast and pulled pork eggs benedict, this kid-friendly cafe will tempt you to stay awhile.
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The Boat Shed Café and Bistro (847 Frankton Road / boatshedqueenstown.co.nz) is a cute as a button weatherboard cabin circa 1869 with a deck that perches on the water. Grab a bike or walk along the Frankton track from town or even take a boat to breakfast or lunch. They’re fully licenced so you can down local Otago vino in the sun with a Boat Shed Benedict or seafood chowder.
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On the shores of Lake Wakatipu, just a 10-minute drive from Queenstown is the gorgeous history-rich Boat Shed. The building dates back to 1869 and was originally used as a store, over the years it fell into disrepair until 2011 when a group of volunteers began restoring it. Personally, I live across the road from the Boat Shed and visit often for excellent coffee and brunch.
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The Boatshed Cafe, nestled in a restored historic building, offers a picturesque brunch experience on the shores of Lake Whakatipu. Here, you can indulge in classic brunch favorites like eggs Benedict and fluffy pancakes, all while enjoying the serene beauty of the lake. It's an idyllic setting for a leisurely brunch, blending great food with stunning views.
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A building with a rich history, The Boat Shed Café and Bistro is set in the old New Zealand Railways Shipping Office built in 1869. In 1936 it was moved from central Queenstown to its current location on the Frankton waterfront. The building was restored in 2011 by the Wakatipu Community Maritime Preservation Society and is now home to a buzzing café.
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If you’re looking for the best breakfast in Queenstown, look no further than The Boat Shed. Perfectly positioned on the edge of Lake Wakatipu along Frankton Road, you can enjoy a beautiful breakfast while soaking up views of the Remarkables mountain range. The building itself is a historic New Zealand Railways shipping office dating back to the 1800s.
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The Boat Shed - This is the only cafe on the list located outside the center of Queenstown, meaning you’ll likely need to jump in your car or an Uber if your hotel is in town. Let me tell you, it’s worth it. Aptly named, Boat Shed is set in an old boat shed right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with perfect views of The Remarkables mountain range.
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To help narrow things down, take this advice from a local: don’t miss the Boat Shed Cafe for brunch!. The Boat Shed Cafe is located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the Queenstown Marina, about a 10-minute drive from the main township. Alternatively, you can get there by biking or walking along the flat, easy (and pretty) Frankton Track.
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A visit to the Boat Shed Café + Bistro guarantees freshly brewed coffee and seasonal menu offerings. During my visit, I indulged in the perfect morning pairing: a flat white and blueberry french toast. The rustic café’s waterside setting is idyllic on sunny days when the lake is piercing blue and views of the Remarkables are unimpeded.
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Hidden along the Frankton Marina in a building that dates back to 1869, you’ll find The Boatshed Cafe, a true Queenstown treasure. While this site once housed the New Zealand Railways Shipping Office, today, it’s one of the best cafes in Queenstown. Sit outside and enjoy marvellous lake and mountain views while dining on gourmet fare.
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The Boatshed definitely has the best view out of all the cafés in Queenstown!. Located right on the lakefront on the Frankton walking track, you can sit with your coffee and look out across Lake Wakatipu to Kelvin Heights and down to Frankton Beach. The building itself dates as far back as 1869 and was previously used as a store.
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I was impressed with the setting of The Boatshed Cafe, a pretty house right beside the lake. Grab the alfresco tables when the weather is good, where you can watch free roaming ducks and catch some water activities on the lake. The food menu is a robust selection of brunch dishes, along with a good brew of coffee.
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Picture the start of your day: After your morning exercise at the nearby lakeside trail, you can head to the neighbourhood’s hidden gem, The Boatshed Cafe. Order a cuppa joe and soak in your holiday. When you’re back at the cottage, refresh your senses with the heated floor pad cum skylight walk-in shower!.
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An ever evolving seasonal menu, locally brewed coffee and award winning staff to put smile on your dial. Catch the bus or take a beautiful cycle or walk along the Frankton Track to The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Website: www.boatshedqueenstown.co.nz
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The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Cycle or walk along the Frankton Track or arrive by boat to the Frankton Marina. Our seasonal menu features the very best, locally sourced produce and we are fully licensed, offering local wines and beers.
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If you’re after great coffee with a side of lake views, The Boat Shed is your spot. Located out in Frankton at the marina, this converted 19th-century boat shed serves locally roasted coffee and a tight seasonal brunch menu. On a sunny morning, the deck here is unbeatable.
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For the best breakfast (or lunch) with a view, you’ll need to hop in a car and head out of town, until you reach The Boat Shed. Housed in the old Railway Shipping Office, this lakeside café and bistro dishes up generous serves that are as pretty as the surrounding views.
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If location is everything, then The Boat Shed Café and Bistro is perfect. With a gorgeous sunroom and spectacular views of the mountains all around, your eyes won’t believe themselves!. Located on the shores of Lake Whakatipu, take a scenic stroll or a cycle there.
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The Boat Shed Café & Bistro is located on the Sugar Lane in the historic New Zealand Railways Shipping Office. The café building dates back to 1869 and it was restored in 2013. It offers spectacular waterfront views of Lake Wakatipu and a laid-back ambiance.
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Punga Cove Resort in Martinborough is a sweet destination for a romantic weekend away, where you can soak up sunshine and serenity at either its Boatshed Café and Bar or at its fine-dining restaurant Punga Fern.
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Housed in a historic building right on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, The Boatshed Cafe is beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit