Vudu Cafe
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Vudu Cafe

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A beloved Queenstown cafe offering waterfront views, exceptional coffee, and a menu of creative, delicious dishes and baked goods.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Vudu Cafe

Vudu Cafe

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beloved Queenstown cafe offering waterfront views, exceptional coffee, and a menu of creative, delicious dishes and baked goods.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This is undoubtedly the best cafe Queenstown has to offer! With a wonderful array of foods and simply the best service."

TIP

Arrive Early

Secure a prime spot, especially outside by the lake, as seating is first-come, first-served.

Be Prepared to Wait

The cafe is very popular, so expect a wait, but many agree it's worth it for the food and atmosphere.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 7:30AM

Cuisine

Cafe

Price

Mid-range

Address

16 Rees Street, Queenstown, 9300, New Zealand

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterfront Views

Waterfront Views

Enjoy breakfast or lunch with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. Perfect for a scenic start to your day.

Google Review
Signature Vudu Benedict

Signature Vudu Benedict

A must-try dish featuring perfectly poached eggs and generous portions of delicious meat on toast.

Google Review
Decadent Baked Goods

Decadent Baked Goods

Indulge in their legendary cabinet treats, with the pecan cinnamon roll and carrot cake being standout favorites.

TikTokGoogle Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

coffee & yapping 🫶🏼☕️ 📍Vudu cafe & Larder, Queenstown #newzealand #nz #newzealandtravel #queenstown #travel #traveltok #southislandnz #coffee #coffeedate #fyp
@emma.peto
89 likes • 2.2K views

Arrive Early

Secure a prime spot, especially outside by the lake, as seating is first-come, first-served.

Be Prepared to Wait

The cafe is very popular, so expect a wait, but many agree it's worth it for the food and atmosphere.

Cinnamon Buns are one of the best things about autumn. I’ve tried a fair few and these were the best 🍁 #cinnamonroll #cinnamonbun #cinnamonrolls #autumnaesthetic #queenstowncafe #queenstownnewzealand #queenstown
@jackinickson
91 likes • 3.7K views
Found my favourite cafe 📖. #cafe #queenstown
@emfaulks14
73 likes • 1.4K views

Cabinet Delights

If it's crowded, consider takeaway from the cabinet for a quick and delicious meal.

Try the Coffee

Known for excellent coffee, especially their almond cap and other specialties.

Tips

from all over the internet

Arrive Early

Secure a prime spot, especially outside by the lake, as seating is first-come, first-served.

Be Prepared to Wait

The cafe is very popular, so expect a wait, but many agree it's worth it for the food and atmosphere.

Cabinet Delights

If it's crowded, consider takeaway from the cabinet for a quick and delicious meal.

Try the Coffee

Known for excellent coffee, especially their almond cap and other specialties.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Vudu Cafe is a highly-rated Queenstown institution celebrated for its stunning waterfront views and delicious, creative menu. Diners rave about the friendly service, exceptional coffee, and standout dishes like the Vudu Benedict and baked goods. While the popularity often leads to queues and waiting times, most visitors find the experience and food well worth the wait.

"We sat outside, we didn’t wait for a table at ten. The staff are soooo nice! The coffee is amazing. I had an almond cap and it was not too strong not too weak. We got the apple crumble pancakes and chai spiced porridge and they were amazingly delicious and warming. The French waitresses are the best and deserve a pay rise."

Shads Jacks

"Vudu is undoubtedly the best cafe Queenstown has to offer! With a wonderful array of foods (including some INCREDIBLE baked goods - your baker is a wizard 🧑‍🍳🧚🏽!!!!) and simply the best service. The girls who work here are all so friendly and welcoming, they create an amazing atmosphere and always make me feel so well looked after. It’s my favourite place to hang out in Queenstown and an absolute must for anyone visiting ☕️🍰"

Holly Ward

"Great cafe, very busy but they found us a table. I had the Vudu Benedict and it was delicious. Very generous portion of meat! Nice coffee, would recommend"

Catherine Hooper

What People Like

Stunning lake views
Friendly and welcoming staff
Delicious coffee and baked goods

What People Dislike

Can be very busy with long waits
Bacon can be dry
Portions can sometimes be small

Frequently Asked Questions

The Vudu Benedict is a signature dish, alongside their highly recommended baked goods like the pecan cinnamon roll and carrot cake. Many also enjoy their creative sandwiches and fresh juices.

TikTok5 Of The Best Queenstown Cafes in New ZealandGoogle Review

Yes, Vudu Cafe is a top choice for breakfast and brunch in Queenstown, loved by locals and visitors for its quality food and coffee.

Restaurants in QueenstownThe Best Cafes In Queenstown

Reservations are generally not taken as seating is first-come, first-served. Arriving early is recommended, especially for outdoor seating.

The Best Coffee in QueenstownWhere to find the best coffee in Queenstown and brunch spots

Yes, Vudu Cafe clearly marks several vegan options on their menu and offers gluten-free choices, catering to various dietary needs.

Queenstown: Vegan or Vegetarian Restaurants11 of the Best Spots for Breakfast in Queenstown

Yes, takeaway is available from the cabinet, which is a great option if the cafe is crowded or you want to enjoy your meal with a view elsewhere.

5 Of The Best Queenstown Cafes in New ZealandGoogle Review

The cafe offers a contemporary and rustic ambiance, with outdoor seating providing beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu.

The Best Breakfast And Brunch Spots In QueenstownGoogle Review

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You'll be fighting the locals for a breakfast seat at this Queenstown institution, thanks to its lakefront seating and delicious array of counter food. Eggs Benedict with a classic coffee is probably the most common breakfast order in New Zealand, and this is perhaps the best in the area. The rest of the seasonal menu is full of fresh and local produce.

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Cafe, European, Contemporary, Oceanian, Vegetarian, Gluten-free. Set in a lovely lakefront location, Vudu Cafe & Larder is an extension to a well-established local favourite, the Vudu Cafe on Beach Street. A massive 1950s image of Queenstown makes the rustic interiors look as scenic as its outer setting.

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Occupying a historic NZ Railways shipping office right by the lake, this great little cafe serves excellent, artfully arranged breakfasts and the likes of…

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Located in the heart of town with stunning views over Lake Wakatipu, Vudu Cafe is easily one of the best cafes in Queenstown and a must-visit for breakfast in Queenstown. Loved by locals and visitors alike, this bustling spot serves up top-notch Allpress coffee and a menu that ranges from wholesome to indulgent. Choose from cabinet delights like vegan treats and hearty sandwiches, or go all in with menu favourites like the ancient grains salad with avocado foam or the orchard fruit crumble with whipped mascarpone.

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Located right in the centre of the gorgeous Queenstown overlooking Lake Wakatipu, is where you’ll find this equally gorgeous cafe. There’s an absolute treasure trove of both sweet and savoury goodies to peruse in the cabinet, or take a seat and work your way through their delicious menu. An excellent mix of dangerously decadent and healthy eats can be found, with options such as the melt-in-you-mouth hummingbird pancakes to the mushroom, lentil and walnut burger.

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From the moment you walk in, the buzz of conversation, the rustic wood-and-brass fitout, and the scent of Allpress beans create the kind of atmosphere that says: this is where locals come to caffeinate. I usually order a flat white and something sweet from their legendary cabinet — the raspberry chocolate brownie is borderline addictive. Get there early if you want a seat outside by the lake.Address: 16 Rees Street, QueenstownWebsite:vuducafe.co.nz

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Ye olde faithful, Vudu café has been a go-to for Queenstown locals for over 10 years, and it is still going strong. Bought to you by the same people who run Bespoke Kitchen, this tried and true formula of some of the best coffee in Queenstown and nutritious and delicious food is complimented by the lakeside location. The only downside is trying to find a place to sit, but the team is on hand to help manage the queue and table allocation.

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Around the corner from Fergburger, Vudu Cafe and Larder (vudu.co.nz) on Rees Street is similarly busy. The sister cafe to the original Vudu Cafe on Beach Street, this newer outpost has outdoor seating overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Customers place their order for fresh juices at the counter, which is lined with sweet treats including cherry-studded Bakewell tarts, towering Tunisian orange cakes, and gluten-free, sugar-free 'Bounty Bars'.

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The Vudu Cafe & Larder has its fair share of regulars and it’s easy to see why – its hearty menu changes with the seasons and their coffee offering, which can be combined with a selection of plant-based milks, is excellent. Several vegan options are clearly marked on their menu. Examples include chai spiced pancakes with orange poached pears, a veggie burger with a black bean and kumara patty, and creamy vegan mushrooms.

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Vudu Cafe is an award-winning cafe located in the centre of Queenstown, which offers a rotating seasonal menu, fresh local produce, and options that cater to all dietary requirements. Open from 7:30 am, the Vudu Cafe is an excellent choice for breakfast in Queenstown. Grab a fresh and fruity orchard fruit crumble with caramelised stone fruit, apricot gel, oat & almond crumble and market fruit.

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Here you’ll find good coffee with cooked options from the menu and a generous selection of delicious and healthy cabinet food, and not so healthy (but also delicious) sweet treats. The central location is fantastic, with an outdoor seating area overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the mountains. It’s a popular café and does get busy but staff do a great job of managing things efficiently.

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Vudu Cafe & Larder, located in the bustling heart of Queenstown, is a relaxed retreat for brunch lovers. With a diverse menu that ranges from healthy to indulgent, it caters to every palate. The cafe's laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely brunch, whether you're craving a nutritious meal or a sweet treat from their tempting cabinet food selection.

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Located in Rese street, Vudu cafe overlooks the stunning Lake Wakatipu and attracts locals and tourists alike. The menu ranges from nutritious to the wanton, with the mid-year superfood bowl besting our rundown. Made with firm tofu, root vegetables, earthy colored rice, and loads of other flavourful fixings, you're certainly getting your five per day.

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Vudu is a modern cafe that offers everything you need for an experience that truly embodies Qeenstown’s coffee culture. Upon entry, you’ll be greeted by the smell of freshly brewed coffee made with Allpress beans. They also have cosy, contemporary decor surrounded by hanging plants and a large window where you can enjoy the stunning view of the lake.

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Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, cosy Vudu Café is so popular that the owners had to open up another café further down the street. From baked goods to a fabulous and extensive brunch menu, which includes a generous amount of gluten free options, Vudu really has it all. Locals will tell you it has the best coffee in town with latte bowls for $5.

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Vudu Cafe and Bespoke Cafe – Both of these spots are always bustling, a true testimony to the delectable tastes within. Catering to all dietary needs, splendidly, here you will find the biggest range of options, cabinet or cooked, for Vegan, Gluten Free, Vegetarian and Refined Sugar Free. Don’t leave without nabbing a raw RFS Twix bar, take-away.

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Vudu is good, albeit slightly pricey as far as the best Queenstown cafes go. It’s pretty tiny and sits right in the middle of town with an outdoor terrace overlooking the lake and in prime time position to enjoy the buskers. The food is okay (though I’m sure many would argue it’s incredible), but I find the real draw to this place is the cabinet.

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A rival to Joes Garage, this place is another brunchy location, with some inventive and creative sweets like buckwheat pancakes, carrot cakes, chocolate cakes and virtually every other sweet can be found in this place. Artistically presented Vudu is arguably one of the most instagrammable cafes in town. Don't miss out on a good shake also.

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Located in the heart of Queenstown with seating overlooking the picturesque Lake Wakatipu, Vudu Larder serves expertly made specialty coffee and quality food. The award-winning café continues to live up to its reputation and is popular with both locals and visitors. Needless to say, you’ll need to get there early to grab a seat.

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Vudu has an extensive (and possible over the top?) vegan menu, but I’m not mad about it. Vudu is usually one of the busiest cafes around town, purely because of it’s central location and reputation. With an entrance both on the main street in town and right on the lakefront, I sat beside the birds and watched the waterfront.

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Located on Beach Street, Vudu Café provides fresh coffee and food using local produce as much as possible. Established in 1997, the popular café features both table seating and booth seating with an inviting log burner fire during the colder winter months. The outdoor courtyard is a great spot for people watching.

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Vudu Café’s tiny albeit charming interior and outdoor terrace overlooking the lake make it an idyllic spot for a coffee in Queenstown. Their cabinet food and coffee make it the perfect place to stop in for a quick, casual bite. The food menu is filled with seasonal, health-conscious offerings and vegan options.

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Located right in the middle of town, Vudu Cafe is actually owned by the same women that own Bespoke Kitchen. Because of that, you can expect to see similar items on both menus. Both restaurants use local ingredients, free-range eggs, and have plenty of options for people with dietary requirements.

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Vudu Cafe & Larder offers a perfect blend of relaxing ambience and chic décor, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back brunch. It attracts a diverse crowd, from solo brunch-goers looking to unwind to groups of friends catching up over delicious food. My go-to here is their Choccy Biscoff pancakes.

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Again, grab a coffee from one of the great coffee shops in Queenstown (we love Vudu) and set out on your walk. This is a short walk, so allow around an hour to go all in (including time to stop and take photos). There’s also a very photogenic swing along this trail – see if you can find it!

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Right in the middle of town and by the same owners as Bespoke Kitchen - which means quality Allpress coffee and exceptional food. Vudu has really vibrant atmosphere but can be a little squashed as it is so popular. Great baristas however mean that grabbing a coffee on the run is very easy.

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A vibrant breakfast spot located in the bustling heart of the city, Vudu is a well-established meeting point in Queenstown. The cafe is a favourite among both locals and tourists alike, gaining popularity thanks to its locally roasted coffee beans and a huge cabinet of cakes and pastries.

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If you're looking for the perfect coffee stop amidst your wanders, pop by Vudu Cafe for a quick pick-me-up. They've got a great selection of plant-based milks for lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. Plus, there are loads of vegan and raw desserts in their cabinet up front.

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Vudu Cafe and Larder is a long-time Queenstown local favourite nestled by the lakefront. It's known for its fantastic vegan food and to-die-for cabinet food. Tuck into fresh sweet or savoury scones, excellent banana bread and delectable cakes made with local produce.

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Vudu Cafe & Larder has been a Queenstown staple for 30 years, and for good reason. Located right on the lakefront, this small cafe packs a serious punch. They’re open from 7:30am-3:30pm daily and from the moment they open their doors, they are rammed with customers.

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Located right downtown in the heart of Queenstown, this is a beautiful cafe. If it is a nice day, there are tables outside with lake views, and plenty of room for strollers. There is a great breakfast and lunch menu, as well as lovely cabinet food and yummy baking.

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Vudu or Bespoke Kitchen – Most popular cafe’s in town (Bespoke Kitchen is the newer sister cafe), has cabinet options if you’re on the go or a sit down menu, smoothies, health conscious options, and one of the best coffees in town. Just good luck getting a table.

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If you're seeking afternoon tea, a hop, skip and a jump away is Vudu Cafe & Larder. Inside is warmer but outside allows for better, natural light so we gravitate towards it and huddle under blankets. I order and pay at the counter and take my number to our table.

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They serve incredible modern, healthy (and not so healthy) food to cater for all tastes and allergies. Owner Michelle Freeman has bagged NZ’s top cafe award several times with Vudu and sibling joint Bespoke Kitchen, which is near the gondola terminal.

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One of the busiest Cafes in Queenstown, Vuduhas been serving local Queenstowners and tourists since 1997. So, it’s definitely doing something right!. Their coffee is strong, and their dishes feature local and seasonal produce where possible.

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The Little and Friday of Queenstown, Vudu Café can do no wrong. A special Vudu highlight is its delicious range of cabinet foods (great to take up the mountain), juices and food off the menu. Okay, so everything at Vudu is a highlight.

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Queenstown CBD dwellers and workers regularly line up for coffee, juice and pretty as a picture baked goods at Vudu Café and Larder (16 Rees Street / vudu.co.nz). From acai style bowls to lemon coconut pancakes to eggs benedict.

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Locals head to long-time favourites like Vudu Café & Larder and Bespoke Kitchen or a healthy favourite like Yonder. For a picturesque option out of central Queenstown, head to the Boat Shed Café on Frankton Road.

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The Vudu Café & Larder (16 Rees St) is open for breakfast and lunch. They have a large range of yummy gourmet baked items as well as cooked menu items. On fine days you can sit outside and gaze across the lake.

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* Local Favorite: Situated on Rees Street, Vudu Café and Larder has secured its place as a long-time local favorite, celebrated for its fantastic vegan offerings and delectable cakes crafted with local produce.

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The friendly team move fast and in any case, it’s worth the wait. This cafe sits between the waterfront and Rees Street, giving patrons plenty of space to dine al fresco.

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Nestled on the waterfront in the heart of Queenstown, Vudu Cafe & Larder is proud to offer modern cafe food using fresh, seasonal and local produce.

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