We stopped at 11th Avenue by Franks on our way from Cromwell to the Queenstown Airport — one of those mid-afternoon stops where you’re not really planning a big meal, just something good before the flight. It turned out to be exactly what we needed.

The place is easy to find, set slightly back from the road with plenty of parking out front. The building is modern and open, with big windows and a clean, simple design. Inside, it feels bright and relaxed — a mix of wooden tones, plants, and a few pops of colour. Nothing over the top, but comfortable and welcoming.

We arrived mid-afternoon when it was fairly quiet, which made it an ideal time to stop. The staff greeted us straight away and were friendly without being overbearing. You could tell it’s the kind of spot that gets busy during breakfast and lunch, but by that time of day, the energy was calm and unhurried.

We both decided on burgers — partly because we’d heard they were good, and partly because it just felt like a burger kind of day.

The beef burger was excellent: juicy patty, fresh brioche bun, crispy bacon, and just the right amount of sauce. Everything held together nicely, which is always a good sign. The chicken burger was just as solid — crunchy coating, tender inside, and layered with a creamy slaw that gave it a bit of texture and freshness. Both came with fries that were crisp and well-seasoned, and the serving size was generous without being too much.

We ordered a couple of cold drinks and sat near the big windows. The space has a nice open feel, and even though it’s close to the main road, it still feels peaceful. The outdoor area looked great for warmer days — there’s a deck and lawn area where you could easily sit with a drink in the sun.

What stood out most was how easy everything felt. The food came out quickly, the quality was spot-on, and the whole experience was relaxed. It’s clearly designed for both locals and travellers — the kind of place where you could meet a friend for coffee or stop in on your way through town, like we did.

If there’s one small thing, it’s that the space, while modern and tidy, feels a bit plain compared to some of the quirkier spots in Queenstown. But honestly, that simplicity also works in its favour — it’s practical, clean, and straightforward.

For a casual afternoon stop, 11th Avenue by Franks really hits the mark. The burgers were great, service was friendly, and it’s close enough to the airport to make it a convenient final stop before catching a flight. We left full, happy, and already saying we’d stop again next time we’re heading through.