The home of Boutique Craft Beer, is the Atlas Beer Cafe, hidden at the back of the Steamer Wharf in Queenstown. Boutique beers are their specialty, along with enticing menu choices throughout the day. The inside is small with some seating, including bar stools facing out over the wharf towards Lake Wakitipu.

We chose this venue for a light lunch, late December. The day being a rather dreary day with a biting wind, we were drawn towards sitting inside the covered mall, near the entrance to the cafe. I was fascinated to see the restaurant opposite, have blanket wraps on each chair for their, customers. Not only were these outside, but also inside the covered mall area. Remember this was in summer!

Choosing and paying for meals plus drinks at the bar, we enjoyed a quiet drink while waiting for the meal to arrive . I must admit we did have a bit of a giggle, as we watched the chef come out of his kitchen to read the chalk menu board. Not that this bothered us, it simply tickled our fancy to see this unfold.

We both chose the same fish dish today. Presented with a crunchy side salad and chunky chips, this was a delicious choice. The whole baked sole which was beautifully soft, topped with a tasty garlic and caper butter mix, fell away easily from the bones. My choice of a glass of local Chardonnay at only $8, completed the meal.

If you enjoy watching the world go by, this is a great place to sit and observe. Drop by next time you’re in the Steamer Wharf area. I did notice while at the bar, a customer was offered a taste of a boutique beer before he purchased, after enquiring what it tasted like. At least that way you won’t end up with a glass of something you don’t like!