There’s something special about eating outdoors in summer. Fresh air, sunshine and something green and gorgeous to look at – all while having a delicious meal with a local craft beer or wine in hand – it doesn’t get any better. Many of our restaurants and cafés offer al fresco dining...here are just a few of our favourites.

Provisions  is an Arrowtown institution at the end of the much-photographed row of old miners' cottages. The old-fashioned garden, with its roses, lavender and fruit trees, is a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle of main street. Perfect for a lazy breakfast or lunch – or just a coffee and one of their legendary sticky buns.

Postmasters

Postmasters Cottage Cafe

Postmasters Cottage Café , once home to the town’s postmasters, has been a main street feature since the 1860s. The villa's historic charm – think hitching post, picket fence, hedged courtyard and wisteria-draped verandahs – makes it a lovely spot to catch up over a meal.

Bendix Stables, Al Fresco dining www.arrowtown.com

Bendix Stables is housed in yet another historic building on Buckingham Street, this time stone stables built in 1873. The gastropub's outdoor dining area fronts onto Buckingham Green and gets evening sun. Here you can watch the kids run around as you enjoy a beer or wine and share a plate or two. 

The Dishery

The Dishery is the newest kid on the block. Here you can indulge in bistro-style dining on a generous patio with views of the picturesque Arrow River Reserve and the Chinese Village. It's just the place to take in the beauty of Arrowtown while enjoying locally sourced fresh food, cocktails and wine.

Millbrook Resort has several options for drinking or dining with a view. Our favourite is Smithy’s Smoke House on the terrace beside the Mill Pond, where you can sit by an open fire with a drink and delicious selection of tapas. Or if you're looking for something more substantial, head to the Hole in One Café or Millhouse, which offer outdoor seating too.

Arrowtown is certainly spoilt for choice with many popular al fresco dining spots including:

Aosta, Arrowtown Bakery, Arrow Thai Food, Clubhouse Kitchen, Fan-Tan, Fork and Tap, Gibbston Valley Cheese, Good Day Deli, La Rumbla

New Orleans, Patagonia Chocolates, Slow Cuts, and The Winery.