Saffron Restaurant Arrowtown

The Blue Door - this is not just a door this is a bar for those in the know. Walk in and enjoy an open fire, deep leather arm chairs and an impressive list of Otago Pinot's. Certainly a place where the locals hangout, I overheard the table next to me debating the merits of Country Calendar. And to our other side was a young touristy looking couple sipping on cocktails and taking it all in. Try the local Quest Pinot which comes highly recommended by bar manager Tim - delicious.   

Just next door to "The Blue Door" is SAFFRON Restaurant.  This place is the ultimate fine dining experience crossed with a warm rustic environment and asian influenced food. The restaurant is set on the main street of Arrowtown and owned by renowned chef Peter Gawron.

The menu is beautifully  detailed and lengthy, almost overwhelming to read through. But once you try each dish you realise that the combination of flavours are balanced to perfection and have clearly been very well thought through.

This dish is a bloody mary that's been set inside a bubble. You just gently squeeze it in your mouth and the liquid inside bursts out full of authentic flavours - paprika like spices, tomato juice and a touch of alcohol. Laid on a salty cucumber salad. The outside is similar to the texture of a boiled egg but more delicate. Ingenious!

We were also treated to bluff oysters which tasted about as fresh as I've ever had them. The plus of being so close to the source! The japanese balsamic and bed of tasty seaweed was a yummy touch.

So hungry yet? If you're heading to Queenstown I'd definitely recommend making the trip to Arrowtown and not only indulging in some great food but also taking in the adorable quaintness of this town.

If you're after a more relaxed experience then try Pesto Restaurant next door which specialises in Pasta and Pizza. Just upstairs is a lovely old cinema. The combination would make for a great night out.

It's about a 15 - 20 minute drive from Queenstown to Arrowtown.

Big thanks to Saffron and their lovely host Dana for turning it on and answering our many questions about the menu.