Food On a Budget
While Queenstown may be known for luxurious tastes, eating out here doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re after a quick bite between adventures or a budget-friendly feast, this town has plenty of delicious options that won’t empty your wallet. Here’s our list of the best cheap eats in Queenstown that deliver big on flavour.
No trip to Queenstown is complete without a stop at Fergburger. This legendary burger joint has a cult following for good reason—the portions are huge, the ingredients are top-notch, and the flavours are next level. For the quality and size of the burgers, the prices are very reasonable. Maybe that’s why the lines can get so long!
TOP Tip: Order ahead by phone to skip the queue, then grab your burger and enjoy by the lake.
For something a little different, Caribe Latin Kitchen brings the bold, fresh flavours of Latin America to Queenstown. Tucked away in the food alley off Beach Street, this small but vibrant spot serves up affordable and authentic street food. Whether you prefer quesadillas, arepas, burritos, or tacos, they’re guaranteed to be packed with spice and personality.
TOP Tip: Their portions are filling, so one dish is often enough for a satisfying meal.
If you’re after something quick, delicious, and budget-friendly, Balls & Bangles fits the bill perfectly. This trendy eatery specialises in loaded bagels and decadent donuts. There’s so much good stuff on their menu, you might want to go back multiple times. You could even go back the same day, as their mix of savoury and sweet options are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack on the go.
TOP Tip: Grab coffee with a donut for a tasty and affordable breakfast.
When you need a warm, hearty comfort food that won’t stretch your budget, Ramen Ramen has you covered. This Japanese eatery serves up rich, steaming bowls of ramen with deep umami flavours. Their menu also includes donburi rice bowls and gyoza, making it a great stop for a quick and satisfying meal.
TOP Tip: Add extra noodles for just a couple of dollars to make your bowl even heartier.
If we’re talking about cheap eats, you really can’t go wrong with Erik’s Fish & Chips. This little food truck serves some of the best fish and chips in town, with crispy golden batter and generous portions. It’s the perfect takeaway meal to enjoy while soaking in Queenstown’s stunning scenery.
TOP Tip: Their meal deals offer the best value, and they often run specials, so check their board before ordering.