Rata, Queenstown, New Zealand

When you mention dining in Queenstown, Rata is often the first recommendation on the list.

Rata, Queenstown

You’ll find Rata down an alleyway in the centre of town in the Te Nuku building beside the Queenstown District Court. Inside the celebrated restaurant, the vibe is a little more casual than expected, buzzing with diners.

Rata Mural

Natural wood finishes, stone and a striking mural of the Rata trees, one of the celebrated native trees in New Zealand are in harmony with the region’s landscape.

Rata Bar

Rata is the venture between Michelin-star chef Josh Emmett and New Zealand MasterChef judge and business partner Fleur Caulton (ex Amisfield Winery restaurant). His menu is a celebration of the regional produce of Central Otago and features Bites, Starters, Mains, Feasts and Sides.

Goat Cheese Profiteroles

Bites can be shared, such as the moreish Goat Cheese Profiteroles with Rata Blossom Honey ($10 NZD),

Chicken Liver Parfait (back), Cloudy Bay Clams (front)

the steamed Cloudy Bay Clams with seaweed butter and chives ($15 NZD) and silky smooth Chicken Liver Parfait ($12 NZD) topped with pistachio and served with crostini.

Northland Kingfish a la Plancha

Northland Kingfish a la Plancha ($18 NZD) is topped with cucumber, togarashi, a kind of Japanese chilli pepper and smoked oyster which add to the flavour of the fish.

Seared Savannah Grass-Fed Sirloin

Seared Savannah Grass-fed Sirloin ($18 NZD) with soy, shiitake and ginger is a balance of delicate flavours with a hint of ginger.

Crispy Duck Tongues

The Crispy Duck Tongues ($15 NZD) with navel orange, edamame and radish can be an acquired taste,

Smoked Warehou Croquettes (back), Cloudy Bay Clams (front)

while the Smoked Warehou Croquettes ($13 NZD) with black sesame and soy mayonnaise are a crowd pleasing dish.

White Onion and Wild Thyme Soup

From the Starters section of the menu, the White Onion and Wild Thyme Soup ($17 NZD) is one of the best soups ever tastes. It is topped with sauteed wild mushrooms and a drizzle of local olive oil from Cairnmuir.

Moko Smoked Eel

Fan of smoked eel with enjoy the Moko Smoked Eel ($21 NZD) served with leeks, salt baked potato and a light horseradish creme fraiche that adds a touch of zing to the dish.

Line-caught Gurnard

From the Mains, the Line-Caught Gurnard ($38 NZD) is a delight, served with shavings of abalone, jersey bennies and spring broad beans.

Roast Cervena Venison Loin 

The Roast Cervena Venison Loin with braised cheek, smoked cauliflower, beetroot with crispy kale ($38 NZD) is perfectly cooked, pink and tender with a clean gamey flavour.

Cheese Trolley

Throughout dinner, the cheese trolley makes a few appearances and curiosity is engaged.

Cheese Selection($23 NZD)

All cheeses are within a small radius of Queenstown and you’ll fid the likes of Blue Lippleton, nettle goats cheese and many more to please the palate.

Rhubarb Cremeux

For dessert, the Rhubarb Cremeux with Nutmeg Sable, Orange and Egg Custard Cream ($17 NZD) is a little underwhelming,

Arctic Roll

while the Arctic Roll ($16 NZD) with lemon curd, fennel and olive oil snow delivers a tangy finish to a fine meal.

Rata

No matter what dishes you choose, the menu is a delicious degustation of the best produce of the region, paired with local wine recommendations. A superb dinner in a relaxed vibe with impeccable service make Rata Dining a must-have experience in Queenstown.

Rata is featured in our article Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown.

Gourmantic visited Queenstown as guests of Air New Zealand.

Rātā
Te Nuku, 43 Ballarat St
Queenstown, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3-442 9393
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 12pm to 11pm Lunch/Dinner
www.ratadining.co.nz