Prospects Queenstown opened to the public on 14 September 2026 at 35 Brecon Street. It is the newest chapter in a story that started more than a decade ago on Wellington's waterfront, and it brings a team known for warm, unpretentious hospitality to the shores of Lake Whakatipu.
Where it started: Charley Noble, 2013
Charley Noble opened in Wellington in 2013, built on the belief that great hospitality should feel effortless, generous and carefully considered. The restaurant earned a following by keeping that promise, night after night.
The Food Lab
That approach grew into The Food Lab, a creative catering and events business that explored what New Zealand produce and technique could do. The two businesses built a reputation for hospitality that is warm, quietly confident and rooted in place.
Why Queenstown
Queenstown draws visitors from around the world, and many of them want to taste New Zealand at its best. Prospects was created to celebrate the people behind this region's produce.
The team describes the idea in one line: relaxed, unpretentious and generous in every sense.
Meet the chef: Darren Shead
Executive Chef Darren Shead brings more than 13 years of experience from Charley Noble and The Food Lab. He designed the Prospects menu around one principle: treat every guest like family.
The room
The 90-seat dining room pairs architectural minimalism with warm alpine materials.
What to try first
The seasonal menu, which changes with what New Zealand producers have available
The all-you-can-eat buffet, good for groups
The Christmas Day and Boxing Day menus, described in our Christmas dining guide
Reviews
Guests have been generous since opening. Google Reviews can be seen here.
"Honestly, this was one of the best buffets I've ever had in Queenstown. Everything was so fresh, delicious, and beautifully prepared. You can really tell how much care and dedication goes into the food and service." - Ayako N.
"Amazing food and amazing service! There was such a wide variety of food, with everything from incredible meat and fresh salads to such a great selection of desserts, soft drinks and hot drinks. Everything we tried was delicious." - Soph
"If you are looking to get the most amazing Oysters and as many as your heart can desire, then this is the place for you! This is quite a clever restaurant and different to your everyday dining experience." - Rebecca V.
FAQs
Who owns Prospects Queenstown? Prospects is from the team behind Charley Noble and The Food Lab in Wellington.
When did Prospects open? It opened to the public on 14 September 2026, after a soft launch for local guests and media on 12 September.
Is Prospects the same as Charley Noble? Prospects is a separate restaurant from the same team, with its own menu and its own room in Queenstown.
How do I book? Reserve a table online.
