Nestled in the heart of Central Otago’s wine country, Amisfield isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a love letter to New Zealand’s finest ingredients. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Crown Range, this stone building reminiscent of a European wine château has mastered the art of romantic dining under the visionary leadership of Chef Vaughan Mabee.
Since joining Amisfield in 2012, Mabee has transformed the restaurant into a world-class culinary destination, earning 3 prestigious Hats and being named #44 on the World’s Best Chef Awards. His journey through acclaimed kitchens like Spain’s Martin Berasategui and Copenhagen’s Noma has shaped his distinctive approach, blending international techniques with deep respect for Central Otago’s ingredients.
The magic begins the moment you arrive. The historic schist building, surrounded by sprawling vineyards and herb gardens, sets a scene that feels both grand and intimately connected to the land. In winter, roaring fires create cozy nooks for couples, while summer brings the opportunity to dine al fresco with views that stretch across Lake Hayes to the mountains beyond.
But it’s Chef Mabee’s innovative “trust the chef” menu that truly elevates Amisfield from a scenic venue to a culinary destination. Each dish tells a story of local ingredients at their peak – perhaps tender Central Otago lamb paired with herbs picked that morning from the kitchen garden, or just-harvested mushrooms foraged from nearby beech forests. His style is characterized by small, intensely flavoured dishes that capture the essence of Central Otago, inspired by local fishermen, hunters, gatherers, and farmers.
Wine pairings are nothing short of exceptional, with Amisfield’s own vintages taking center stage. Their Pinot Noir, grown on the surrounding slopes, perfectly complements the robust flavours of high-country cuisine. The sommeliers guide you through each pairing with knowledge and passion that transforms every course into an experience.
What makes Amisfield particularly special for couples is its unhurried elegance. The service strikes that perfect balance – attentive yet unobtrusive, allowing intimate conversations to flow as naturally as the wine. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply sharing a romantic evening, the three to four-hour dining journey becomes a memorable chapter in your own love story.
From the freshly baked sourdough served with cultured butter at the start, to the exquisite petit fours that close the meal, every moment at Amisfield is crafted to delight. It’s no wonder this exceptional restaurant continues to collect accolades while remaining, at its heart, a place for people to connect over extraordinary food and wine.
Make your Amisfield experience complete with a stay at The Glebe Apartments. Just a 15-minute scenic drive from the restaurant, our luxury accommodations offer the perfect complement to your fine dining experience. Our team specializes in creating memorable evenings, from securing your coveted Amisfield reservation to arranging transportation, ensuring you can fully indulge in the wine pairings without worry.
After experiencing Chef Mabee’s extraordinary cuisine, return to your sophisticated apartment to savour the evening’s memories over a nightcap on your private balcony, the lights of Queenstown twinkling below.
Contact The Glebe today to plan your perfect Queenstown culinary getaway. With Amisfield’s global recognition growing, early reservations are essential to secure your chance to experience Chef Mabee’s award-winning cuisine.
For bookings, contact Amisfield – https://amisfield.co.nz/
