Record Setting Monster of a Hospitality Business

Lone Star Queenstown – A Legendary Name in New Zealand Hospitality

Lone Star Queenstown has been a cornerstone of the local hospitality scene since first opening its doors in November 1991. With only two owners in its long-standing history, it has become a beloved local institution and a well-known restaurant in Queenstown NZ for locals and tourists alike.

What sets Lone Star apart is not only its legacy but also its consistent performance. Pre-COVID, this high-performing restaurant regularly generated turnover exceeding $2.6 million (including GST), thanks to its strong reputation and loyal customer base. Whether you’re a Queenstown resident or a traveller exploring the South Island, Lone Star delivers an unmatched dining experience filled with warmth, generous portions, and unforgettable flavours.

More Than a Restaurant – A Queenstown Experience


Positioned in the heart of Central Queenstown, Lone Star is much more than just a place to eat. It’s a hub for celebration, connection, and comfort. With two flexible function spaces, this restaurant Queenstown New Zealand is one of the few in the region able to accommodate large-scale events. From wedding receptions and birthday parties to sports team dinners and school group meals, Lone Star is a trusted venue for every occasion.

Families are especially welcome, with a relaxed atmosphere, a kid-friendly menu, and accommodating staff making it the ideal family restaurant Queenstown locals recommend and visitors return to. It's where you go when you're searching for quality food near me that everyone will enjoy.

Key Attributes:

  • A proven and efficient operating model
  • Efficient management and maintenance of labour and food costs within budget
  • Renowned for the overall dining experience and customer satisfaction
  • Opportunity to open a second restaurant in Frankton
  • Two designated function spaces in Central Queenstown
  • Pre - COVID consistently turning over $2.6M - $2.8M (incl GST).

Room to Grow – A Queenstown Opportunity


While the restaurant has continued to perform strongly, recent years have seen limited marketing efforts due to personal changes for the current operator. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, operations have scaled back from their previous heights, with reduced bar and lunch services. However, this presents an exciting growth opportunity for new operators ready to restore the brand’s full potential.

With Queenstown’s steady growth in tourism and population, there's also significant potential to expand beyond the current site. A second restaurant in Queenstown NZ—particularly in the fast-developing Frankton area—could capitalise on an underserved market hungry for Lone Star’s legendary hospitality.