Queenstown startup promises fun times, great food

Authentic Tex-Mex, the biggest frozen margaritas in town and legendary service are all on the menu in the tourist mecca’s latest restaurant offering.

Miss Rita’s Cantina opened last week in the town’s newest hospitality precinct below the Skyline Gondola, the seventh venue brought to life by the team at Future Hospitality Group.

The menu tips its hat to a lively mix of Texan and Mexican culinary traditions and recipes passed down through the generations, from the smoking grills of San Antonio to the bustling streets of El Paso.

The new restaurant seats 145 inside, and 40 outside in a sunny courtyard perched above Queenstown’s bustling CBD. For the ultimate in peoplewatching, regulars will be keen to secure a coveted seat outside alongside huge windows which open up to reveal the restaurant and bar within.

Interiors feature a stunning Wild West mural by renowned Wanaka artist Shane Walker, new lighting and colourways, and a bedazzling margarita wall next to the bar.

Future Hospitality Group co-owners James Ace and Bert Haines predict Miss Rita’s Cantina will become a new favourite spot for banter, beers and good times.

“It’s bright, it’s airy, and it’s all about having fun with your family or a group of friends, for a party or for no reason at all other than the sun is shining and we’re here to entertain you,” says James.

“All the snacks, the quesadillas, burritos, fajitas and tacos have been developed, tried and tested for flavour punches by our kitchen team under the watchful eye of executive chef Matt Tobin of Margo’s and odd saint fame. It’s a combination of dishes that are great for sharing or enjoying solo.

“Our service style is attentive, fun and food centric, because we’ll tell you about each dish as we’ve tried them all.

“We can’t wait to open the doors on a summer of fun.”

Founded in 2011, the Queenstown-based multi-award-winning business includes venues such as Margo’s, Little Blackwood, Queenstown Ice Bar, odd saint, Minus 5° ICE BAR and Little Mez.