QUEENSTOWN, New Zealand – April 8, 2025 — Amisfield, a fine dining destination nestled between Queenstown and Arrowtown, has earned global recognition after being ranked the third best restaurant in the world by influential U.S. publication Food & Wine.
The accolade was part of the magazine’s third annual Global Tastemaker Awards, which spotlight top culinary destinations around the globe. Judges praised Amisfield for delivering an “unparalleled dining experience” that has turned the restaurant into “a beacon for wine enthusiasts worldwide.”
The restaurant’s signature ‘Trust the Chef’ menu, priced at NZD $695 per person, was singled out as a must-try. The multi-course experience was described as unfolding “like a show,” with dishes creatively designed to resemble the animals from which they are sourced.
Executive Chef Vaughan Mabee, who has led Amisfield’s kitchen since 2011, said the recognition reflects the team’s commitment to telling “a beautiful, original, exciting story of Aotearoa.”
“We really focus on finding products that are outside of the box, things that you can only gather in New Zealand,” Mabee explained. “Our ethos and values in the restaurant mirror those of our vineyard: minimal intervention, letting the ingredients shine in an original, creative way.”
Mabee added that the award highlights more than just the food.
“It’s the whole package—our place, the beauty of the views, the atmosphere, the amazing team, our wine. This award recognises how all of these elements come together.”
While Amisfield is known for its elevated dining experience and premium pricing, Mabee said the restaurant continues to attract repeat visitors.
“Many people come back more than once a year. Our lunch menu is designed to be more accessible, while dinner is where we really showcase the true story of Central Otago.”
The recognition from Food & Wine follows a stellar 2023 for Mabee, who was the only New Zealand chef named among the World’s Top 100 Chefs last year.
“The team is thrilled with this award,” Mabee said. “It reflects their passion and hard work, and shows that people from all over the world are looking to us to experience something truly unique.”
Amisfield’s latest honour further cements New Zealand’s growing reputation on the international culinary stage.
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