Something special to eat

Patagonia specialises in life's indulgences and has mastered what many would consider the top three in life: chocolate, ice cream and coffee.

Owners Alex Gimenez and Lorena Giallonardo brought their Argentinian love of good chocolate to Queenstown over a decade ago. Alex has been whipping up treats since he was four, and, thanks to his Italian roots, ice cream and coffee were natural additions – hence the trifecta Patagonia are known for today.

The sweet heady smell of life's treats permeates the space. The chocolatemaking equipment is on show upstairs so it's possible to work up an appetite by watching the crafting of fresh quality ingredients into the more than 70 chocolate products on offer. As Alex says – why have a Ferrari locked up in the garage if people can't see the beautiful machinery?

Artisan ice cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt are made off site into a verytricky-to-choose-from range of flavours. Try the orange and basil sorbet or mascarpone cheese and fruits of the forest ice cream.

Commanding a supreme location right on the lakefront, just wander out the door to the beach with treat in hand and delight in every mouthful. Fancy being just a little naughty first thing? It's totally acceptable to come here for breakfast, with a full menu of indulgences available, such as a chef's selection degustation menu including Patagonia's signature hot chocolate. Remember, you're on holiday and you only live once. 2 Rees Street. (03) 409 2465, patagonia chocolates.co.nz

Alex Gimenez