Ayrburn — the sprawling hospitality precinct on the outskirts of Queenstown — has gone from strength to strength since opening in late 2023, continuing to add exceptional venues to its impressive oeuvre, each of which has a distinct feel and offering.

The latest eatery to join the fold is Billy’s — a refined, modern Chinese-inspired eatery that may just be the precinct’s boldest and most alluring yet. Set in a restored 19th-century homestead that was once the main residence of William and Bessie Paterson (Ayrburn’s original owners), this decadent dining destination is the final original building to be restored on the site — the final piece in Ayrburn’s heritage puzzle.

The significance of this milestone is evident in the meticulous care and attention to detail paid to every facet of Billy’s. Here, the vibe is grounded but daring. Interiors are rooted in history, yet modernised through thoughtful details, and the contemporary luxury Ayrburn has become know for shines through. Velvet banquettes, chinoiserie wallpaper, notable artworks, and rich layering collide to create a space that feels at once elevated and inviting, honouring the past while speaking to the future.

Inspired by traditional orangeries where exotic plants flourish year-round, a striking glass conservatory at the building’s rear further extends the elegant dining space and invites light into the eatery year-round, framing the spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. A smattering of outdoor tables extend beyond — sure to be some of the most covetable seats in the precinct come summertime.

On the food front, the choice to make Billy’s a Chinese-inspired eatery was a considered one. Once home to gold miners in at mid-to-late 1800s, Arrowtown and Ayrburn’s surrounding landscape was home to a host of Chinese immigrants who played a pivotal role in the Otago gold rush, and Billy’s is a considered nod to this moment in time.

As such, Executive Chef Richard Highnam and his team have developed a menu that reflects this heritage while embracing a modern sensibility. You’ll find both refined takes on the classics (think bang bang chicken, sweet and sour pork, and kung pao chicken), alongside more contemporary and creative additions — from crayfish mantou with XO sauce to fiery grain-fed beef hot pot and Southern Ocean toothfish with black bean and shaoxing emulsion.

If you’re dining with a group, the refined ‘Billy’s Banquet’ is the only way to go, leaving the selection up to the chefs so all that’s left to do is sit back and enjoy the spread.

Dumplings are unsurprisingly a highlight, with options like har gow prawn truffle, wagyu beef siu mai, and black crystal squid and crab — cooked to perfection and served with traditional accompaniments to complete the experience.

There’s also a decadent signature offering which is an essential order for anyone visiting. Dubbed ‘A Bump with Billy’ this perfect pairing incorporates a 30ml pour of the venue’s signature ‘Infinite Wisdom’ cocktail, and a bump of Imperial Oscietra Caviar — sure to inspire indulgence and elevate every occasion.

There will, of course, also be a robust selection of Ayrburn wines on the menu, including the bespoke ‘Billy’s’ chardonnay and the exclusive ‘Homestead’ pinot noir, as well as a host of curated tipples to accompany the exceptional fare on offer.

The latest jewel in Ayrburn’s culinary crown, Billy’s lends itself to occasions of any and every nature — from an intimate lunch shared with family to a raucous evening with friends, and everything in between. Our table is booked, is yours?

Opening hours:
Wednesday, 5pm until midnight
Thursday — Sunday, 11:30am until midnight

ayrburn.com/billys