Review Botswana Butchery - Queenstown Nz - Queenstown

Came here about 2 times. Absolutely loved our dining experience here. Food, service, and atmosphere were amazing. Sherie (hope I got your name right) was the friendliest/warmest host and actually explained to us the menu and followed up with thoughtful wine suggestions. I highly highly recommend eating here. Everything from their steaks to seafood were top drawer. Will be back for sure.

the t-bone beef was AMAZING! so flavourful, perfectly cooked & tender. this restaurant is on the pricier side, but 100% worth it as a treat!! the soups were amazing & the clam chowder’s seafood ingredients were SO fresh. both the clam chowder & mushroom soup were rly creamy as well! do go for the duck-fat potatoes if you want to opt for any sides! the scallops were also very fresh and buttery. howeverrr, i think you can give the whitebait a miss…… it just tasted like a simple omelette. service was also amazing :).

Couldn't be happier after dining here at Botswana Butchery. My partner & I are visiting celebrating our engagement and we were not disappointed! The food was delightful. The waitress we had was friendly and so attentive! We even got a complimentary dessert which made our day! Was seeking a quality steak all week long and I finally found it! This is the place to go to for sure!!!

Highly recommend Botswana. Service was great and the food was amazing. We had the crispy squid, lamb loin, t-bone steak and eye fillet with sides and they were superb and the pudding for dessert was delish.

Great dining experience on a cold, snowy day. Beautifully cooked whole NZ lamb shoulder served with absolutely perfect duck fat potatoes - crispy on the outside, soft in the middle and hot. We ordered the seasonal vegetables which was asparagus with hollandaise sauce; again, very tasty. The slow cooked lamb was served on a warmed plate accompanied by a nice jus and mint jelly on the side. Able to carve it with a spoon - cooked to perfection. Staff were great, the experience exceeded our expectations.

The truth is, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. My best friend booked this restaurant, a couple of months ago. My God, the food, the food, the food! we had a great selection of entrees (the octopus is to die for). For mains, I had the Wagyu, medium and it was phenomenally cooked. For dessert, I had the pudding, and I could taste the apricots. In terms of atmosphere, it felt like I was in France. Very rustic, very old school, but felt like I was a king, if you have an opportunity to eat here, do it!

We both really enjoyed our dining experience, the oysters were amazing and the Ribeye and Venison was next level! Got talking with the table next to us and ended up heading out for some drinks afterwards with them and was an great night out in the Tourism capital of the world! 👌

Beautiful atmosphere, amazing food and really great service, it’s an experience coming to Botswana Butchery. The menu has an abundant selection of delicious food to choose from, there is something for everyone and especially so if you are a meat eater. For starters we had the bone marrow and the tuna tataki….my husband was very impressed with the bone marrow and the quality of the tuna in the tataki was very high. For mains we had the half duck and the wagyu eye fillet. The half duck was so delicious and cooked to perfection. The eye fillet also was cooked beautifully. The only small thing which I didn’t like are the prices of the wine. They have an amazing selection yes, but prices were insane. I know how much I can buy these for and a 300% mark up is crazy. Other than that, we had a great experience- just be prepared that it will be pricey.

This was a fantastic dining experience. We were running 20 minutes late due to traffic and they still accommodated us! We got to sit next to the kitchen which at first was a little noisy but then actually impressed us with the level of professionalism. We also got to preview food before making choices : ). Next time I would request the private dining spaces upstairs if you have a group and I recommend booking ahead of time. The food, whilst slightly pricey, is worth it and I would go again in a heartbeat. We tried the fish, lamb and deer dishes and some sides. All meat was excellently cooked. Pictured is the atlanic scallop entree and the red deer main. Thanks to the team on tonight for such a great food experience.

This is so classy! Very pleasent atmosphere and delicious food! World-class meals detailing and test balancing! Congrats to the owners and chiefs! Thanks for making my BD special.

My wonderful friend gave me a voucher for my birthday and I decided to use it last night on my trip to Queenstown. The service was outstanding and the food was phenomenal. This will be a regular when we are back in Queenstown for sure! <br/><br/>Luckily we live in Auckland so will be sure to visit the Botswana Butchery there soon.

I know there’s a Botswana Butchery in Auckland but I feel as though you have to visit the one in Queenstown first. Botswana Butchery offers amazing service and a fine dining experience in general that many should try in their lifetime. <br/><br/>My dad got the lamb rack, my mum got the venison, my brother got the hare risotto as a starter and the venison as his main and I got the 180g eye fillet. We got the seasonal vegetables, which was maple glazed Brussel sprouts with bacon, macaroni and cheese with bacon and duck fat potatoes to share. I tried a bit of my brothers risotto and it was really creamy, the rice was cooked perfectly because it wasn’t mushy and overcooked. My eye fillet was absolutely amazing. Crispy on the outside from the grill and soft and melt in your mouth like on the inside. Botswana butchery really knows how to cook their meat properly as all meats were done to perfection. The Brussel sprouts were tasty, even if they just boil it, I would still eat it because it’s my favourite vegetable anyway. The duck fat potatoes weren’t too special in my opinion, a bit soggy if I’m honest. Lastly, the Mac n cheese was so delicious. Creamy, rich and not too salty so you can eat a lot of it. If I ordered just that, I guarantee I would walk away with a full stomach.<br/><br/>I recommend Botswana Butchery if you’re looking to splurge while in QT!

Late post, this was a year ago.<br/><br/>Atmosphere was so cozy<br/>Food was pricey (50 for each main) but good quality<br/>Best duck i have ever tasted hands down, so succulent and flavourful<br/>Lamb was also good<br/>Will try the Auckland branch soon

Stunning building on the waterfront of the lake. <br/><br/>Onion soup is mind-blowing good super rich. The peking duck was recommended by some locals and was very nice you construct it yourself so can muck around with how you want it. Wagyu cappacio was also good a little salty but ok for me. Wasnt a fan of the scallops so much but the salmon dosh was very good.<br/><br/>Fantastic cocktail and wine lists with a funky cellar upstairs. There is also a log fire out side to keep you warm

Tremendous restaurant! Great setting and exceptional service! Really extensive meat based menu with lots of different cuts of meat! Get the lamb if your in a group and share it, it’s amazing!

The Botswana Butchery - located on the marine parade overlooking Lake Wakatipu - is a restaurant par excellence. Food is cooked to perfection and presented aesthetically. <br/>Tried their pumpkin soup - soup of the day - it was delicious. So was the veg mushroom ricotta cannelloni & the high country lamb preparation. Dessert & wine menu will spoil you with choice. We tried the creme brulee and I can say that it’s the best I’ve had so far - it was served with an assortment of strawberries n macaroon n guava icecream n the works. <br/>Restaurant has a good seating capacity with a small outdoor section as well, however, prior reservation is recommended. Decor is warm and old world. Service is very good with servers providing great recommendations. Definitely a must try.

Love this place. Food is amazing and service is good. Great ambience. Pork is delicious. Good wine list.

Delicious food. The mains, sides and entrees all tasted great. We had a mix of main meats, salads, duck fat potatoes and entrees to share. The restaurant is located lake front, so is in a great spot

What ever this drink is. Please don’t change it! 2 yrs ago when I had it first time I fell in love with it and every time i come to queenstown (from) Sydney I must order this: love every single bit of it. I gave 5 for the restaurant because of this

This place was overpriced and so small. Food was ok but not exactly fine dining was expecting alot more. The service was good but that's where it stops.<br/>We got the lamb and steak I kid you not was like 50grams. If your still planning on going here get meats where you can see your gram sizes and sides. Not the middle section of menu as we did which comes with sides. If your looking for the ultimate fine dining and value for money experience in Queenstown head to matakauri lodge it will not disappoint(not on zomarto)

a cozy and beautiful place for a special meal. but food is a little bit overpriced. also it doesn't support apply pay, wechat pay or alipay.

Botswana Butchery located in Queenstown is a lovely place to dine for a special meal with that special someone. Food was pretty good, prices are a little expensive for the portion size on offer. The atmosphere is lovely though and the wait staff were so attentive and so knowledgeable. The drinks list is epic. Of course meat is their specialty, we decided on lamb and it was lovely. There’s a little outdoor seating available. A nice night out at this iconic restaurant.

Awesome from start to finish.  Service was friendly and the atmosphere upbeat.  I had the Pork Belly which was cooked perfectly - really did melt in the mouth, it came with Bok Choy, again cooked great.  Only small point would be there was potentially too much Kumera mash.  Jus was morish and there could have been more.  My partner and his mate had the mixed grill, which was a perfect portion for the lads.  Highly recommend.

Cozy restaurant with posh interior and seatings. Don't be surprised to find a fire place at the outdoor seating because there's an actual proper sized one! A bonus if you're sitting outdoor, is that you get a view of the lake as it's right in front of the restaurant.<br/><br/>Ordered the lamb rack with a side of duck fat potatoes. First look, presentation of the lamb rack didn't look like a lot of thought was put into it, just a sad rack of lamb sitting in the middle of a big empty plate.<br/><br/>Started off well, tender lamb, though slightly under-seasoned for my taste and potatoes permeated with duck fat, really had a better crust than standard form of fat.<br/><br/>Unfortunately, the other half of the lamb was undercooked. Upon closer inspection, the meat close to the bone appeared to be raw. Plus side to this meal was the duck fat potatoes.<br/><br/>Note: it was dark outside as there was no outdoor lighting and realised it towards the end using my phone's flashlight when I started finding the texture a bit "too soft".

Beautiful restaurant with an asthetic interior and mind blowing food. Had the Beef cheek and Botswana fried chicken, each flavour presented on my plate complimented each other. However I just have a minor complaint that if a dish is going to take 20-25 minutes such as the Beef cheek then I think the staff should just inform the customer. Other than that impeccable place and do recommend to anyone looking for a fine dining experience while in Queenstown.

Average service, below average food. Wouldn’t recommend. Nothing more to say but need to fill up the word count. Wouldn’t bother going there again. If I could give zero stars I would

Food was delicious!!!!! We ordered oysters, fillet and the tomato and French onion soup. Everything was excellent. Worth every penny. Highly recommended.

The raw oyster bluff is so delicious with a abundant flavor and meaty taste. Delicious main dishes and beautiful deserts. Viewing Lake wakatipu and enjoying lovely lunch at sunny day is my first lunch in Newzealand

Amazing customer service and great quality of food!! The local steak referred by the waiter was awesome! We will go back again when we go back to Queenstown :)

If you're after a nice meal in Queenstown, this would have to be at the top of your list. Great atmosphere, with a few different rooms to choose from, and a bar/lounge upstairs. Excellent service. Food is great and reasonably priced. Try the bluff oysters, sensational!

Food- had 3 Top notch starters- prawn, scallops and pork and a complementary tempura soft shell crab. <br/><br/>Filet mignon was excellent and gigantic T bone steak was average.<br/><br/>The deconstructed apple and feijoa crumble was above average. <br/><br/>Atmosphere and service were top notch.

Botswana is perhaps the restaurant with the best fine dining reputation in Queenstown. We went there for a friend's birthday dinner and it did not disappoint. While we waited for our table we were shown to the upstairs bar area. With a roaring fireplace and several engulfing couches I would easily be mistaken that we were in some English aristocrat's manor. <br/><br/>Service was impeccable. Entrees we chose our own from the menu. The spanish style whitebait is amazing! I've never had whitebait like this before, usually just deep fried. But this was fresh, in gorgeous olive oil and a great combination of flavours. Though I don't personally enjoy the texture of tartare I have to say their venison tartare was done incredibly well. <br/><br/>The remaining courses came pre-selected so I'm not sure what their equivalent would be on the a la carte menu but just the general quality of the ingredients and the skill in preparation is evident.

Tried out their rack of lamb and it was superb! I had to order a side of mint jelly, though. Did not expect to be charged for it. The meat was very tender and cooked just right. Service was superb. I wish I had more time to try out their other dishes and desserts. Oh well, next time!

We were recommended to check out Botswana Butchery (one of Queenstown’s best restaurants) from a few different locals in the area, so thought it would be the perfect place for lunch once we checked out of the hotel. ATMOSPHERE & SERVICE. It was a bright sunny last day for us in Queenstown, when we arrived to Botswana Butchery with a gorgeous outdoor fireplace roaring. I would have loved to sit outside and enjoy the stunning views of the lake next to the fire with a big glass of wine, but it was still a bit too chilly for us!

Crazy good as usual. The steaks cooked to perfection. Service prompt and friendly. I can appreciate the wait staff were busy however it took a wee while to get the drinks out and our coats weren't collected to be hung out of the way. If that's all I can fault them on... by goodness they're doing well. Defo recommended if you love a great steak!

My partner and I, came with our baby daughter. Excellent service from staff, amazing food and wine. Slightly steep prices but well worth it. Would go again for a special occasion.

Botswana Butchery is one of Queenstown’s best restaurants. They have 2 locations in New Zealand in Auckland and Queenstown. It is so popular that Oprah was here at this location a month ago. When in New Zealand, its a good idea to try lamb here as they are known to cook it properly. Botswana Butchery serves some of the best meats in the area.

In all honesty, if you eat anywhere else in Queenstown, you are cheating yourself. The staff are so attentive and genuinely great human beings. The food is also outstanding, don't skip the bluff oysters...that are second to none! I am writing this review from beside the fire in the top bar (the perfect place for a nightcap) where they brought us a desert on the house to thank us for coming back for the third night in a row...that kind of thoughtfulness is what makes my experiences here so memorable and is why I will continue to return time and time again.

Botswana butchery Queenstown is much better than its Auckland counterpart, if you get a choice just skip the Auckland one and head to this beauty tucked away from the hustle of the Queenstown waterfront. The kitchen staff obviously have a passion for their food with the pride taken in every dish, the waiters and waitresses know that most tables are there for a intimate meal with friends/family/significant others, and as such give you space and don't push you into ordering too soon. They also know their wine list and pairings very well.

Came to Queenstown for a friend's birthday and this was the celebratory dinner. Nice atmosphere, relaxed but nice. Decent enough service, can't fault them but not as warm and helpful as a lot of other high end places. Food was decent, we all changed our orders to the specials once we heard them. The wagyu beef was nice enough but the lamb T-bone was out of this world. Delicious! The duck fat potatoes, cauliflower and onion rings were our sides and were all delicious. Good sized portions, we were all too full for dessert!

Top quality restaurant with amazing food and great waiting staffs.<br/><br/>Top of the range NZ meat, cooked to perfection. The waiting staffs were very attentive and friendly. The sommelier is very knowledgeable of wine and recommended great wines for our dinner. Desserts are creative and delicious!<br/><br/>Definitely one of the best top quality restaurants in New Zealand! Would definitely recommend this restaurant to everyone who wish to have a taste of premium NZ meat<br/>

Quality meats but maybe a little older style, although not unlike most steak houses. Had oysters (some in buttermilk batter, some natural) which were both great, a meat terrine which was nice, eye fillet steak and lamb 2-ways (shoulder and rump) also good - both very well prepared and quality...

Pricey but the best meal I've had in NZ! <br/><br/>I can't get over how amazing the duck fat potatoes are here!!!! The selection of meat was also impressive. <br/><br/>For starters we ordered the Bluff Oysters, Deer Tartare and Chicken Pate all starters were so well balanced and delicious. <br/><br/>For main, I ordered the special which was the 300g Wakanui Beef, pan fried (your waiter will ask if your meat prefer pan fried or char grilled. Pan fried seals in more flavour whereas char grilled is for those that prefer a crispy outside). <br/><br/>The waiter boasted the Wakanui Beef as the best in the world, although I wouldn't say it is the best in the world, it was definitely delicious and I was happy with my selection. The blue cheese butter and creamy mushroom sauce were my accompaniments and they made the meal spectacular! <br/><br/>We also ordered the Mac and cheese and cauliflower cheese. Mac and cheese was full of flavour and great, cauliflower was just sub standard. <br/><br/>For dessert I had the creme brûlée and bomb Alaska, both were yum and a great way to end an impressive meal.

Food was average but pricy and you can get better customer service from McDonalds. Took over an hour to get our meal. They seem to have a thousand staff running around doing something other than looking after their customer.. Give this one a miss.

In Queenstown on business. Our group of 7 all had a fantastic dinner experience at Botswana Butchery which certainly lived up to its reputation. Best dining experience that I have had all year. Highly recommended.

I had really high expectations for this place since being told about it. I was surprised that it did live up to my expectations.<br/><br/>The service was fantastic. We felt that we were the only table around even though the place was full. Friendly, helpful and there was always an offer for more beverages.<br/><br/>I found the food really tasty and packed with flavour. Each item on the plate went well with the other items and also with the side we had also ordered. I had a venison tartare and it was gorgeous. There meat was tender but not bloody, the meat didn't taste gamey and the other flavours didn't overpower the deer. My main of rabbit wasn't as good. The faggot (similar to a meatball) was a bit dry but the sauce and mash were good accompaniment for that. The loin was perfect. Nicely cooked and the bacon wrapping it was crispy.<br/><br/>Would really like to go back even though it was pricey. About $80 pp for 2 course meal and a drink. It can be cut down by ordering more sides (which were also very well done, the potato gratin was the favourite of the night). The portion are also quite big as we were unable to fit in dessert.<br/><br/>Booking (easily done on their website) is generally recommended unless you don't mind having a late dinner.

Botswana Butchery was the last stop for a steak in NZ. The place was nice, a contemporary feeling steakhouse, playing with the butchery part of their name with knives and cleavers everywhere. I sat down at the bar and perused the menu. Their steak list is quite extensive with the option to either char grill or pan grill the steak. I settled on the 500g savannah grass fed rib eye ($46), char grilled medium rare. I chose a confit garlic mash just to shake things up and break away from the usual chips, and a pinot and thyme jus.

Amazing food, service and relaxed atmosphere! will definitely be coming back here on the annual girls trip to QT!<br/><br/>cheers guys

Great food and service. Especially if you're looking for a good steak! Not the cheapest meal but good quality. (Hey tourists - free wifi too)

Ahhh. My favourite restaurant in all of New Zealand. Fell in love with this little restaurant on our very first trip to Qtown and we have visited every year since. The restaurant offers standard or private dinning; my partner and I had a private room just to ourselves. The room fit a round table and 2 chairs and that was about it. We had our very own fireplace, which the waitress came in regularly to stoke. Food was amazing as always. Definitely worth the visit if you're looking for a great night out.

I really do think this is the very best meal I've ever had in my life. The service is A+ but the food. The food is out of this world. Entree Peking duck pancakes which were special then a 500g rib eye on the bone char grilled to perfection with duck fat potatoes and Mac and cheese. This list of sides and sauces is bloody impressive and the thyme and Pinot jus was delectable. 11/10

The ambience of the restaurant is very nice. They have many tables for sitting the guests but recommend you to pre-book for securing a table because it is very full especially during holiday season. They have private dining room as well if you need some privacy. The angus beef steak was so tasty and the price was reasonable.<br/>A not to miss steak restaurant in Queenstown.

Excellent service and amazing food bites . Beautiful place to visit for there food and customer service in NZ.( Queensland ) . Highly recommend this place for visitors

Great service feel free to ask your waiter for a wine or any other advice on the menu. Fabulous food which not only satisfy your taste buds and hunger but also appeals from every angle of view. Make sure you have a reservation or be early there. Always a great choice is the soup of the day, let yourself surprise.

Lovely pappardelle with lamb cheeks, Cavolo Nero and dried porcini mushrooms. Very tender cheeks and full of flavour. Very enjoyable but then portion was small, literally 4 mouth full. Apart from a small lunch portion service was attentive and professional.

Just Fantastic. If you're looking for world class dining then Botswana Butchery wont disappoint. We had a private dining room upstairs and also started with drinks by the fireplace and bar. The Oysters and Scallops for entre were fresh and tender. I had the eye fillet and it was cooked to my liking. We had the duck fat potatoes and mushrooms with bacon and a couple of other sides which were all fantastic. Apple tart for desert was spot on. The deconstructed affogato looked great too. Need to return to try other dishes!

An ecletic menu with interesting decore and fantastic service.. Botswana Butchery is not you're typical Queenstown restaurant. If you want typical aussie pub staples at regular prices go somewhere else. If instead you want new cuisine that is done properly by a trained chef in an atmosphere with fantastic service then the butchery is for you.<br/><br/>Me and my partner ate here on our third night in queenstown and found the place just lovely. They put us by a wood burning fireplace and the sommelier paired our meal choices with local New Zealand wines. Our French waiter was fantastic with recommendations and prompt service.<br/><br/>It was expensive, two entrees, two mains, two deserts, and two cocktails and six glasses of wine set us back around 300NZ. But I felt like the money was worth it considering the service. Its one thing to just make good food and charge for it, but the effort that went into training the staff was clearly evident and made paying the bill very reasonable. <br/><br/>You wouldn't eat here every night of your stay. But if you have something to celebrate or just want to cap off your ski trip with a slightly more decadent dining experience you won't be disappointed.

Decor was confused as was the menu. If it wasn't as expensive then that would have been one thing, but you just walk out feeling ripped off. Lamb was great but pricey ($90 for 2), salads were awful and muddled. Redeeming feature was our French waiter who was excellent. Save your money and go somewhere cheap and cheerful in town.

Great!. Live this place particularly the service. Atmosphere was great and food great also :)

What an embarrassment waited over 2 hours for our meals<br/>When I ordered the wine , waiter filled everyone glasses except mine then asked me if I wanted to order another bottle WTF<br/>Never again

Absolutely outstanding. I can not recommend this place enough. Art Deco velvet armchairs, classic champagne cocktails, vastly gastronomic menu and worldy service ! Make a booking.

We went here as a group of 8, all our food was amazing. The wait staff were great, steak was amazing, we loved the duck fat potatoes.

Incredible. Just order the Slow roasted whole lamb shoulder for two....but just for yourself.

Excellent service and very good traditional dinner fare. My entree of Southland whitebait fritter had good flavours and everything you would expect, soft white bread, butter and lemon. Steak was perfectly cooked with a choice of sauce and sides.<br/><br/>Would have liked to have seen more local wines by the glass. <br/><br/>Service was excellent. <br/><br/>A good option for a solid traditional style meal.<br/>

If you are after a selection of well cooked steaks on or off the bone this is the place for you. Mine was perfect and followed a well balanced rabbit soup.<br/><br/>The sides are simple and the menu allows your own selection with your personal choice of sauce.<br/><br/>The service staff work hard and are attentive.<br/><br/>The wine and menu pricing is a little steep for a place that excels on execution rather than innovation.

We had lunch here last Thursday, and it was a great introduction to Queenstown.<br/><br/>My husband always orders oysters if they are in season and he washed them down with champagne. (Clevedon oysters and they were excellent, we were 24hrs too early for Bluff oysters but got them elsewhere later in the weekend)<br/><br/>We then had the nelson scallops and the deer tartare, both of which were delicious- the portions were fine dining sized, so we were glad of the sides of bok choy and coleslaw, but it also meant we had room for dessert.<br/><br/>We shared the dark chocolate and raspberry brûlée which was yummy and had some interesting additions on the side (raspberry fizzy rocks). <br/><br/>The decor was great, and if I go again I will request one of the cool private rooms upstairs, the service wasn't quite up to the same standard as the food, but in general we had a lovely lunch here, and we would definitely go back.

Pleasantly surprised to find excellent service, great ambience and a well cooked steak in a tourist centre. Gave 5 stars because it matched my expectations (owned by a celebrity chef which is something I couldn't care for one way or the other). Wine list is overly pricey but when the service is great you don't pay that much attention to the silly wine list markups.

Don't know what the hype is all about. We had an ok meal. I had the peeking duck which was reheated and ok. My fiancé had the laksa which was good. Probably would not head back. Plenty of other places which had much better good. Reminded me of GPK.

These guys charge crazy high prices, but it has always been worth it when I've attended meals here. I love the lamb shoulder and the wine is phenomenal. Never had better lamb in Queenstown to be honest. Then they have the most immaculate atmosphere I could imagine. I will dine here every time I have clients who need to be treated to fine dining in Queenstown! Such a good atmosphere!

Ate there few days ago, the meals were all very nice as you will expect, from this 5 star restaurant.<br/>But cant say the same for the alcohol service, we ordered a 2009 bottle of Pinot, the waiter bought and poured the 2010 bottle.<br/>We didn't notice until 10 minutes after, We queried the waiter but thought his answer was not really acceptable being a five star restaurant if the advertise vintage isn't available they should inform guests accordingly. I would of thought some sort of discount on the $110 price tag would have been more appropriate. After all there is a difference between the '09 vintage we expect to be paying for whats on your menu at this level of dining.<br/><br/>(2009 Valley Pinot Noir is the bottle concerned)

We were recommended to go to this place based on our hotel recommendation. The place at first looked really small but opens up in the back and upstairs. They have a excellent wine selection.<br/><br/>The lamb shoulder for 2 is their signature dish and I'd highly recommend it. Being American, we had to indulge in a side of macaroni and cheese. <br/><br/>As for dessert, the taste of chocolate was a little underwhelming on presentation and taste but it might've been from too much wine during dinner.

Have eaten at Botswana Butchery in Queenstown many times and had very high standards, they delivered in every way service was good and food was even better. Glad to see a South Island gem in Auckland as well.

I absolutely recommend Botswana Butchery in Queenstown. Booked in a large group of us months in advance (had to) for a Friday night and now I know why. Amazing decor, service and the food was spot on. I had a rib eye and was certainly not disappointed. I heard the filet was the best though from around the table. The wine list was superb, as was the service. We asked for a birthday cake to be made for one of us, and the staff obliged &amp; executed it perfectly.<br/>It was an expensive meal (worked out to be about $100 each for entrees, main, wine/beer, cake) but as a special treat on holiday I do not regret that one bit. This meal was the highlight of my trip to Queenstown actually.

First time in Queenstown, visting a local so we decided to check out Botswana Butchery. I was rather impressed with the food - the lamb was absolutely beautiful and tender, well presented, and well matched to the Pinot Noir we were drinking. The beef cheek was incredibly melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and deserts were fantastic. Cocktails were beautifully made. I did feel the service was a bit lax - we started the night upstairs at the bar and there was only one guy on, while downstairs had two or three girls standing around the main desk. Will probably visit again next time I'm here.

Very over rated and over priced. Very classy decor and private rooms. Service good. Main course $41 - $42 - very small serving. Side dishes could be ordered ($9) but we weren't advised to by our waitress. Waitress knew her wines and advised accordingly.<br/>Ladies toilet needs modifying - nasty looking puddles on the floor.

Went for hubby's 50th over Easter weekend in Queenstown. Food very expensive for what you get and standard not what one expects for $35-45 dollar main (excludes sides). We ordered entree oysters, 1x dozen, received 11. Just annoying. Location is great and the decor is fabulous, service average. Again if you go 5 star you expect 5 star. Couldn't recommend.

I ate, as one of a group of four, at BB on Sunday 12th February 2012. Without a doubt it was the best meal I've had this year so far, and probably all of last year too. This is not a cheap restaurant so expect to pay for quality. Service was friendly, competent and unobtrusive. Wine list was awe-inspiring. I had the pork dish - a perfectly grilled cutlet, small rillette and some ribs - served with potato salad, apple sauce and watercress containing shards of pork crackling and matchsticks of fresh apple. My companions ate hare, lamb and pork. None of us had any bread or entree 'cos we were hanging out for the main fare. All of us thoroughly enjoyed our meals. The menu is basically in two sections: fully plated meals with all the trimmings (which we had); and the butchery section where you choose your meat, sauce and side dishes individually. The plated meals were average size. I could have eaten a dessert but my mates dragged me away. Damn, that strawberry panacotta sounded very fine. I'll be back.

Went here for a special celebration dinner whilst in Queenstown. Was highly recommended by ex resident.<br/>The food was GREAT and the setting was really nice.<br/>My only gripe is the service - not good.<br/>Had french onion soup - no soup spoon.<br/>Happened to the table next to us - no cutlery for their main course and they took cutlery off another table.<br/>Ordered a bottle of wine ($90). It was dribbled down the side of the bottle when poured and for the rest of the meal the waitress did no top up our glasses.<br/>Lot of chat going on amongst staff. No one managing the staff and keeping an eye on things. Bit disappointing.<br/>Bit of a let down as the food was superb and the kitchen was obviously doing their job really well with great food.

Botswana is an elegant and impressive looking restaurant. The decor is modern with plenty of room inside, seating people both upstairs and down in what looks like a converted large home.<br/><br/>The environment gives you an air of class and expense, but Queenstown being what it is, you could be there just as comfortably in jeans and a hoody as you would in a collared shirt and designer shoes.<br/><br/>The prices are not for the penny-watchers. The menu isn't huge, but still fairly impressive - apart from the lack of bread. Perhaps we missed it on the menu, but we didn't see any on the sides or starter menu.<br/><br/>Service was impeccable, and apart from a muddle up with our booking not being found when we first arrived, and being moved seats, we couldn't fault it.<br/><br/>There is a good selection of wine, including many from local Central Otago wineries.<br/><br/>Our meals were great - but as indicated by an earlier reviewer, you pay extra for the sides. Steak meals and such range in the $30 price range with each additional side approximately $8 each. Which can make your meal about $50pp without drinks added.<br/><br/>Overall we enjoyed the dining experience, but it would be the sort of place that we would recommend if you wanted somewhere to enjoy the service and atmosphere and have a few dollars to splash around.

Arriving off the plane on Sunday, we were rushed to the BB, for a late lunch. Located on the waterfront in Queenstown, the restaurant is housed in what must have been an early settlers cottage ( albeit expanded through the years.) With a focus on grills there are many dishes to be enjoyed on the main menu, however Sunday lunch and fresh off the plain I opted for the Steak Sandwich which was everything you could ever wish it to be, and at $15 it represented fantastic value. Service was both professional and friendly, even though we were late for lunch, we were made to feel very welcome and an important detail - no one rushed us out the door late on Sunday afternoon.

This restaurant is top class. From the bright patterned decor and different sized upstairs dining rooms, to the friendly and intelligent service, to the varied selection presented on the wine list, to the tasty menu. I had been recommended Botswana Butchery before my recent trip to Queenstown, and I'm so glad that I went. <br/><br/>We shared some side dishes and breads to begin with and I had the most amazing risotto combining asparagus, fava beans and mange tout (snow peas), topped with pecorino. <br/><br/>Note: make sure you make a reservation in advance, so you don't miss out.<br/><br/>I blogged more about my experience at http://celestereviews.wordpress.com/2011/03/02/a-vegetarian-at-the-butchery/

I visited here about a year ago now. I couldn't wait to go after all the great press it has in the cuisine magazine. I was blown away with the food, service, dining areas, menu, wine cellar and the door handles(meat clevers)The best meal i had had in a long time and i cant wait to go back. One comment on this page says how you have to pay extra to have something with your meal, well thats how it works with the steaks for eg you pick your cut of meat or the age the size etc, then all the side dishes are also listed, then the sauces so its all catered just to your liking, the more you want to eat the dearer it gets.<br/><br/>Superb i will be back

I went with a large group of friends a month or so ago. The place was fantastic with all the little nooks and crannies. Over all everyone had wonderful food and the only thing that keeps it from getting 5 stars was our waitress being extremely informal. Not rude, just a little too much info about her private life. You;d expect that at say, Lone Star, but not at a place like this.<br/>I'd definitely go back for more though!

I have been to this restaurant in 2009 and again in 2010. I would say it's one of the best restaurants I have EVER been to. The food is exceptional, the service amazing and the ambiance is wonderful. If you get the chance ask for a private dining room. For lunch they will also pick you up and drive you home in a Bentley for Free. We went twice during our one week stay in Queens town in 2010 and cannot wait to visit again.

I had been wanting to dine here since it opened as I'd heard some good reviews so arranged to meet my friend here for lunch. Visually it's appealing but you'd think being on the lake front you'd get more of a view. On a sunny day you just don't want to be stuck in a gloomy dark interior and there are only a few seats available outside.<br/>I wanted a steak but was put off by the fact that I'd have to pay extra for everything to go with it so ended up just ordering off their basic lunch menu - the cheapest thing was the Caesar Salad but even then I had to pay another $4 extra for the egg and bacon which SHOULD be already be included in any self-respecting Caesar.<br/>My friend was out of luck, unfortunately. The kitchen were uninterested in putting together a vegan lunch for her and since they couldn't even guarantee the fries were cooked in vege oil she went hungry.<br/>All in all, not very satisfying.

Last night was our third visit to Botswana Butchery and I have to say things have gone down hill from the last couple of visits. I would have given this restaurant a 5 star rating for our first visit but 3 stars is all it gets now. The main let down is the service, while it was friendly it was a bit to familiar and not as professional as it could be. Now the service would have been good in a more casual setting but you are paying for what should be a fine dining experience and it was just a little clumsy and a few mistakes crept in.<br/><br/>On the food front the Tuna Tartare was OK but the beetroot flavour just overran the dish so much that you couldn't really taste the tuna. For the main I had a steak (Angus Rib Eye) which was good but not outstanding. The horseradish side packed a punch - be warned.<br/><br/>On the dessert front I went with the Affogato - It did what it said on the tin and was a nice ending to the meal. I did have dessert jealousy however - I would recommend trying the Pear and Almond Torte with Pear ice cream.

I was in Queenstown in February and discovered the delights of the Botswana Butchery.On 2 occasions for drinks only overlooking the beautiful lake and also in the upstairs cocktail bar. This enticed us to return to try the dinner menu as the service we received from the warm friendly staff was excellent. We were not disappointed as the food was superb and our only difficulty was choosing from the menu as everything was very appealing. So you will not be surprised to learn that we went back again on our last night in town. Our only complaint was the smokiness of the open fires both in the cocktail lounge and at the front area of the restaurant. It was quite unpleasant, however the staff addressed this problem to the best of their ability although i think gas fires would solve this issue very easily.<br/>We are returning to Queens town next week and will look forward very much to the Botswana experience especially their delicious food. Highly recommended

I visited this restaurant by chance, while strolling the streets of Queenstown, looking for a Steak-House.<br/>Although the place was very busy and I had no booking, I was accommodated in one of the private Room for two.<br/>The service was corteous and efficient, the quality of the Steaks was almost perfect, although my wife's steak was slightly too cooked to be suignant, the side dishes and bread were just perfect, and the Creme Brulee' was one of the best I have tasted.<br/>The private room was comfortable, bar the bit too noisy music ( turned off at our request )and the overflowing smoke coming from the log fire. ( an open window overlooking the lake corrected that )<br/>I was pleseantly surprised when the account arrived, I would have paid the same amount anywhere in Perth WA, for an average meal.<br/>I considered the service to have been above average, the food very good and the value for money very satisfying, a special credit to the Manager from Brindisi and the waitress from Ferrara, who looked after us professionaly, wearing the most affable of smiles, blended with impeccable savoir-fair.<br/>Would definatly visit again.......

Despite Kevin's review, we didn't get to sample the 'acclaimed' food on offer because of the chaos that ensued in the restaurant. Despite having drawn our observations of a dis-functional front of house to the MD (Claire Abbott) who assured us that things were in control, we spent an hour and a quarter drinking, had starters and were informed it would be another 15 minutes (at least) for our mains (2 rare steaks).<br/>We paid up and left in disgust. <br/>Unless you can buy from the kitchen and cut out the middle-chaos I would suggest you try Pier 19 or Flames where the ambience, welcome and quality is something the BB should observe.

We thoroughly enjoyed our meal here. The decor, furnishings and restaurant design/layout are unique and definitely set the place apart. There are even two seat dining rooms for a more private or romantic meal. The service was very good. The food was well presented and tasted great. Well worth the visit.