About This Restaurant
Queenstown Public House is a quaint and whimsical restaurant located in San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood! We specialize in New Zealand inspired dishes and offer amazing cocktails. Whether it be for breakfast or brunch for weekend mimosas, lunch or happy hour for a grass-fed burger and a cocktail, or dinner on the patio for some of our locally sourced, seasonal salads and wine varietals, there is sure to be something for everyone at Queenstown Public House!
Queenstown Public House at 1557 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101 is a whimsical, New Zealand-themed pub known for its cozy atmosphere, extensive outdoor seating with fire pits, and hearty, upscale pub fare. It's a popular spot for brunch, happy hour, and dinner in the Little Italy neighborhood.
Key Details
- Cuisine: New Zealand-inspired American food with a Kiwi twist, featuring organic grass-fed beef and lamb burgers.
- Atmosphere: Casual, cozy, and trendy, set in a converted craftsman house with playful decor, including decorative sheep on the ceiling. The outdoor patios are a major highlight.
- Highly Rated Items: Popular dishes include the Bare Lamb Burger, Fish & Chips, Lamb Hash, and unique cocktails like the Porch Pleaser.
- Vibe: Known for its lively atmosphere, especially during weekend brunch and holidays when the decorations are extensive and festive.
- Price Range: Typical prices range from $20-30 per person.
Popular Dishes & Menu Highlights
- New Zealand Lamb Specialties: The Bare Lamb Burger is a signature item, featuring a lamb patty with blue cheese, mint jelly, and pickled beets on a brioche bun. Another popular option is the Lamb Hash for brunch or the Lamb Skewers as a starter.
- Burgers & Mainstays: Other highly-rated choices include the Queenstown Favorite Burger (organic beef, edam cheese, garlic aioli, tomato chutney) and the Fish & Chips (beer-battered haddock). The Wagyu Smash Burger and Habanero Chicken sandwich are also popular.
- Brunch Favorites: Weekend brunch highlights include French Toast (vegetarian), Chicken and Waffles, and various egg dishes like the Breakfast Poutine.
- Appetizers & Sides: The house-made potato chips with New Zealand onion dip are a favorite starter. The sweet potato fries with blue cheese crumbles are also highly praised.
- Drinks: The pub features a large selection of craft beers on tap, a great wine list, and popular cocktails like the Loaded Bloody Mary and Blood Orange Mimosa.
Visiting Information
- Hours:
- Monday - Thursday: 11 AM - 9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM - 10 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM - 10 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM - 9 PM
- Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which are highly recommended for weekend brunch and large parties (8+). You can book through OpenTable or their official website at queenstownpublichouse.com.
- Parking: Street parking and paid parking lots are available nearby, but it can be challenging, especially during the Little Italy Farmers Market on Saturdays.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome in all outdoor seating areas.
- Accessibility: The venue has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating.
