Restaurants

Public Italian Kitchen

88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300

Rating: 4.7 ★ (3728 ratings)

Details

Public Italian Kitchen offers a relaxed Italian-inspired waterfront setting on Queenstown's Steamer Wharf, boasting stunning views of Lake Whakatipu and The Remarkables. This establishment provides a warm, informal atmosphere with inviting indoor and outdoor seating, truly combining Italian culinary traditions with a laid-back lakefront dining experience. It stands out by offering a delightful taste of Italy infused with a distinctly local Queenstown character.

The cuisine style focuses on Italian classics reimagined with regional ingredients, featuring handcrafted pastas and modern Italian dishes. Diners can enjoy popular choices such as Fettuccine Carbonara, Spaghetti Bolognese, and premium steaks, alongside New Zealand oysters and delectable Italian desserts like Tiramisu and Panna Cotta. The venue also provides a comprehensive celiac-friendly menu and gluten-free options, ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests. An aperitivo at the bar with a selection of cocktails, local New Zealand, or Italian wines makes for a perfect start to any meal.

This welcoming restaurant is an ideal choice for friends and family looking to enjoy good food and drinks whilst taking in the scenic views. It suits a range of occasions, from a casual spritz and shared plates to a full evening meal by the water, being particularly well-suited for lunch, dinner, or simply drinks. Public Italian Kitchen is also child-friendly, offering a dedicated kids' menu, and daily Happy Hour from 3-5 PM adds to its appeal, though booking ahead is highly recommended.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM | Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM | Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM | Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM | Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM | Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM

Contact

+64 3 442 5969 | http://www.publickitchen.co.nz/

Comments

DAN MASSEY
4 Sep 2026
5.0 ★
Thea was the best and made our experience top notch!, food was also absolutely incredible kudos to the chef, and the cocktails was also phenomenal kudos to them too! Defs coming back again!!

The Veal and chocolate tiramisu is a must order!
Also ordered monte rosa cocktail like 4x was absolutely phenomenal!

Thank you for the surprise dessert on the house as well!!
Simonie Lam
3 Sep 2026
5.0 ★
I came here for a dinner and it was amazing! The food was so delicious especially the burrata and gnocchi. The interior was so pretty and the service was exceptional! We were served by Manu and she was the sweetest and most helpful server. Will definitely be back and highly recommend!!
Jodie Jensson
29 Aug 2026
5.0 ★
We had such a great experience at Public Italian Kitchen, and Thea was absolutely exceptional. From the moment we sat down, she was warm, attentive and genuinely lovely.

She gave us a really thorough explanation of the menu and her recommendations were spot on. The timing and placement of every dish was perfect, and she checked in regularly without ever making us feel over serviced or interrupted, which is such a fine balance!

The food was amazing, the atmosphere and ambience were beautiful, but Thea’s service really made the whole experience. She is an absolute asset to the restaurant and we’ll definitely be back!
Matthew Carter
7 Aug 2026
5.0 ★
Great restaurant with amazing food!

Just want to start by saying our server tonight Thea was awesome. Great chat and very knowledgeable about the menu.

All the food was fantastic and as described. Fresh, made in house and authentic. The price was reasonable for the food and a very nice atmosphere too.

Highly recommend if your looking for good food, relaxed vibes and great service. Thanks again Thea and the team for a great dinner!
Suz Forrester
11 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
Beautiful spot right on the lake as we sat outside. Service by Teresa was wonderful. Food & drinks were excellent. Would definitely go back. Nice cruisey music too which added to it. Try & time it so the boats aren’t coming & going. We did & it was very peaceful & relaxing.

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