Ben Bayly Has Turned Queenstown's Heritage Bathhouse Building Into a Nostalgic Brit-Themed Eatery

Lately, it seems like everything chef and restauranter Ben Bayly is touching is turning to gold — Aucklanders will be more than familiar with family-friendly eatery The Grounds and of course, Commercial Bay's luxe eateries Ahi and Origine — which just so happened to make Concrete Playground's list of best eateries in Auckland this year.

Now he's extending his Queenstown repertoire (which includes Aosta and Little Aosta) to one of the southern city's iconic heritage buildings. Built in 1911 to celebrate the coronation of King George V, the Bathhouse is known for its distinct octagonal shape and in particular, its spectacular views thanks to its position directly on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Sam Stewart

Now fabulously refurbished and with a menu dedicated to nostalgic British fare with a modern New Zealand twist, the newly fitted-out eatery will be open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset. During the day, diners can enjoy an a la carte menu, which features a bevvy of English classics — think jam-and-cream doughnuts, a scotch quail egg, coronation chicken sandwiches and even prawn cocktail crisps for ex-pats missing that particularly British flavour.

Sam Stewart

Just make sure you save room for something sweet. The dessert menu features more distinctly British gems, including a Knickerbocker Glory ice cream sundae, and a jelly- and cream-filled trifle inspired by Queen Victoria's chef, Charles Elme Francatelli.

In the evening the Bathhouse will become an event space catering for up to 100 guests with a special group "shared feast" menu option.

Sam Stewart

Along with co-owners Vicki Onions and chef Steven Sepsy (Aosta, Little Aosta), Bayly has signed on a talented local team for the opening, with James Worthington (Eichardt's) coming in as general manager. Local award-winning architect Anna Marie Chin signed on for the refurbishment and fitout of the heritage space.

Sam Stewart

Open now, it's absolutely worth checking out next time you're down south — and if Queenstown is calling, opt for this luxe CP Trips getaway package, which includes helicopter rides, a gin tasting and a private hot pool.

The Bathhouse is open now at 28 Marine Parade, Queenstown. It's open seven days from morning until evening — head to the website or social media pages for more info.