Josh Emett's flagship Queenstown restaurant, celebrating New Zealand's native ingredients in a warm, wood-panelled room steps from the lakefront.
Why It Belongs on the List
One of New Zealand's most respected fine-dining restaurants, Rata is chef Josh Emett's love letter to local produce — Otago lamb, Central Otago pinot noir, venison, and seasonal vegetables from the region's farms. The room is beautiful, the wine list outstanding, and the cooking precise without being cold. A reliable top pick for a special dinner in Queenstown.
What Stands Out
- Josh Emett’s flagship restaurant
- New Zealand native ingredients
- Central Otago wine list
- Walkable from Queenstown lakefront
- Fine dining benchmark