Aosta and Jervois Steak House will be going up against Oro Restaurant and Sherwood Queenstown who are also nominated for the outstanding restaurant award.

Situated in newly opened The Carlin boutique hotel, Oro is a fine-dining restaurant with modern French, British and New Zealand influences. It’s chefs Yann Robert and Beata Balogh have both been recognized in the categories for best chef and best emerging chef respectively.

Yann Robert has esteemed competition from Sam Gruar of La Rumbla; Koji Kiminai of Tanoshi and Ben Norfolk of The Bunker all up to the outstanding chef accolade.

Great cafes are not lacking in the region with 11th Avenue by Frank’s, Bespoke Kitchen, Odd Saint, The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro all finalists in the category of outstanding cafe.

Those looking for a place to get a great drink won’t be disappointed with the region’s assortment of top-notch drinking establishments recognized.

Bardeaux, Ferg’s Bar, Little Blackwood and Little Mez are all contenders for the title of best bar while Botswana Butchery, Eichardt’s Bar, Jervois Steak House Queenstown and The Bunker are all recognized in the category of best winery restaurant.

Anyone looking for the best quick and tasty place to grab a bite should check out Francesca’s Mobile Pizza, Margo’s Queenstown, Ramen Ramen by Tanoshi and Taco Medic who are all nominated for outstanding street food/casual dining.

Nineteen awards will be given to the best of the region’s hospitality industry. From crew members, to suppliers, to establishments – the best of the best will be celebrated for their contribution to creating a world-class hospitality scene in the Queenstown and Southern Lakes area.

CEO Marisa Bidois says, “Queenstown is now a destination dining experience offering exceptional experiences in some of the world’s most stunning settings.

“From quick and easy street eats, to luxury winery restaurant experiences, Queenstown has it all.

“With all categories keenly contested, this year’s winners truly exemplify what it means to be at the top of their respective categories.”

Voting closes on Sunday, 23 April 5.00pm and the winners will then be announced at the awards evening on Monday, May 7 at Walter Peak in Queenstown.

Tickets to the event are on sale now, to purchase or for more information regarding the awards please visit For more information regarding the awards please visit https://hospitalityawards.co.nz/southernlaklakes, Facebook @qthospitalityawards

The Southern Lakes Hospitality Awards Finalists 2023