This summer, I had the amazing opportunity to go beyond my boundaries and explore some of the most incredible countries in the world. If you know me, you know that I didn't just limit myself to the sightseeing. I was also super eager to get the inside scoop on the #EEEEEATS scene in the land Down Under.
Of course, I made some incredible finds, but I can't give myself all the credit. I couldn't have done it without my friend and fellow food enthusiast, Rachel Fein (shoutout to @foodb4dude and @rachelfein27 on Insta)
So with that, here's Avery and Rachel's complete guide to the best restaurants for every meal (including snacks- don't worry, we gotchu) in New Zealand and Australia.
Yonder, Queenstown
In the wise words of Marshall Ericksen, "God, I love brunch." There's nothing better than getting to wake up late and enjoy a delicious combination of breakfast and lunch with the ones you love. You get to choose between arousing sweet or savory options, all while being social and enjoying a hearty meal.
Yonder, located in the small, yet touristy ski town of Queenstown, New Zealand, offers all of that and more. With menu options ranging from savory kimchi and poke bowls to sweet blueberry pancakes, the possibilities are endless. And the best part? The cozy indoor fire-lit atmosphere in the winter and lively outdoor courtyard in the summer make for the perfect little meeting spot for all social gatherings.
The London
This hip underground pizza company and bar is the talk of the town. Also located in Queenstown, New Zealand, this restaurant brings a taste of the bustling London nightlife to the quiet New Zealand country. Their thin crust four cheese pizza is a menu must-try, as well as their oven baked mac 'n' cheese with a parmesan crust. So if you're looking to grab some drinks and enjoy a night out on the town with some friends, The London is definitely the scene for you.
Balls and Bangles
Can I just say, whoever created the concept of combining doughnuts, bagels, and milkshakes is a pure GENIUS!! For that, we have Balls and Bangles in Queenstown to thank. With tons of doughnut flavors designed to satisfy your sweet tooth, each with their own syringe filled with Nutella, caramel, jam, or custard, your mouth is sure to water. I got the cookies and cream doughnut with the Salmon Benedict bagel and shared a milkshake with my friends, which was not only delicious, but outrageous in size. All I can say is, after eating here, you'll probably never be hungry again.
Cookie Muncher Cookie Bar
Cookies freshly baked on the daily. Milkshakes galore. Cookie dough shots and cones. That's right— the Cookie Muncher Cookie Bar in Queenstown has all of that and more. I kid you not, I was here every night for dessert when I was in Queenstown (as if I wasn't already eating enough) because there's nothing better than indulging on fresh baked cookies and warm milk right before bedtime.
The World Bar
There's no word to describe this place other than "wow". No, seriously, the food here is unreal. The World Bar in Queenstown is home to the Mac Daddy, the monstrous fried mac 'n' cheese burger. It puts Cheesecake Factory's version to shame. But that's not all: There's fried Twix, deep fried pickles, fish tacos, pumpkin soup, and so much more. What's not to love?
Mrs. Ferg Gelateria
Located next to the world-renowned Fergburger (which I did not partake in because I'm a pescetarian), Miss Ferg, also in Queenstown, serves up some of the creamiest gelato I've ever tried. Their dark chocolate hot cocoa is also a must-try due to its luscious and rich flavor.
Patagonia Chocolates
Chocolate on tap? Crepes made right before your eyes? Seems like a dream, doesn't it? Well, this dream becomes reality at Patagonia Chocolates in Queenstown, New Zealand. That's not all: You can find creamy gelato and sorbet, fresh roasted coffee, breakfast and dessert foods, all handcrafted to perfection by Patagonia chocolatiers. And don't forget to take in the beautiful view of the Queenstown waterfront lined with snow-capped mountains upon arrival.
Hydro Eatery
As you move away from Queenstown towards the beautiful Great Lake Taupo on New Zealand's northern island, you can find Hydro Eatery, located in the quaint town of Turangi. Their menu has everything from sweet brunch foods to savory lunch options. I ordered the crispy calamari and a frozen iced coffee, which was beyond delicious. After you've finished your eating endeavors, you can enjoy some time by the lake fishing, biking, or skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
The Famous Chocolate Eclair Shop
Although this place is set in the middle of nowhere, I definitely recommend taking a turn out of the way. That's how worth it the eclairs are from The Famous Chocolate Eclair Shop in Rangataua, New Zealand.
#SpoonTip: I recommend buying your own eclair because my friend and I decided to share one and we devoured it in seconds.
Kaffee Eis
With five locations all across New Zealand's capital, Wellington, Kaffe Eis is the perfect snack destination. Their ever-changing variety of over 45 flavors of gelato is sure to tempt your tastebuds. And even better, they donate ten cents from every drink sold to a charity that benefits the local community. To date, they've donated over $48,000 NZ dollars, so you don't have to feel that bad about indulging.
Fishbowl Sashimi Bar
As my dad always says, it's good to have options. At Fishbowl in Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia, the options are endless. You can create your own bowl with a wide variety of proteins, veggies, rice, and dressings. Or, you have the option of choosing from a selection of pre-designed bowls, which are equally as yummy.
Pancakes on the Rocks
If you think you've already tried the world's greatest pancakes, think again. You haven't tasted anything till you've tasted the Hot 'N' Troppo pancakes from this popular Sydney dining location. These buttermilk pancakes with grilled banana, walnuts, cream, chocolate ice cream, and homemade chocolate sauce are absolutely to die for. They're something you just can't pass up while in Australia.
Little Loco
After taking a dive in the Great Barrier Reef, a Pitaya or Açaí bowl from Little Loco's in Cairns, Queensland, Australia is sure to replenish your energy. Of course, I added peanut butter to mine to create that rich, creamy texture. The outdoor dining aspect was also enjoyable, with the cool breeze rolling in from the Pacific. It's a great place to meet friends for your choice of either a hearty or light breakfast.
While eating in other countries may seem like a challenge, in actuality, there are so many fun and yummy options. You just have to look for them. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore!