Dishes and destinations

The Gourmet Traveller team share where they’ve been and what they’re eating.

Queenstown, New Zealand

A quick stop in Queenstown didn’t leave enough time for a day up the mountain but we managed to squeeze in a decent walk along the lakeshore, as we headed to our favourite café The Boat Shed. With two years between visits, I’m pleased to report it’s as magical as ever.

Joanna Hunkin, editor

The Jackson Ranch, Bawley Point

Bannisters’ new South Coast estate brings luxury to the bush. The ranch-chic property sleeps 30 across homesteads, cabins and an ultra-luxe bubble tent (pictured), making it the multi-generational holiday of our dreams.

Anna McCooe, acting deputy editor

Freyja, Melbourne

Crisp heart-shaped waffles may sound cutesy, but this golden starter from new wave

Nordic restaurant Freyja is in part a nod to its namesake, the Norse goddess of love. Use it to scoop up pops of Yarra Valley trout roe with lightly smoked sour cream and dill fronds. 477 Collins St, Melbourne, Vic

Jordan Kretchmer, writer

Ates, Blackheath

Centred around a 150-year-old ironbark-fuelled oven, Ates in the Blue Mountains is well worth the drive for its fire-kissed share plates, such as this kingfish wing which came swimming in fragrant chilli butter. 33 Govetts Leap Rd, Blackheath, NSW

Karlie Verkerk, deputy editor

Pino’s Vino e Cucina, Alexandria

This pici all’aglione (a thick hand-rolled spaghetti slicked in a garlicky tomato sugo) was just one of the highlights delivered by chef Cristiano Patacca at our neighbourhood Italian hotspot. The family-run restaurant is the sort of Italian local every suburb deserves. 199 Lawrence St, Alexandria, NSW

Lauren de Sousa, art director