Cafes
There is no shortage of great cafes in Christchurch and the inner city is bustling with good places to have a relaxing break with a cup of coffee or tea. Many new outlets have emerged alongside old favorites, many of which are used as social hubs for the Christchurch locals.
Jacob Lund/Shutterstock.comUnder the Red Verandah
Established in 1997, this family run business has an outside courtyard where to spend a lovely lunchtime. This café is a definite must for brunch - remember to try the delicious poached eggs on bruschetta. A busy café so booking in advance is recommended.
BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock.comBoat Shed Café
Picturesque riverside café serving breakfast, lunch, BBQ and picnic menus. Seating can be found both indoors and outdoors and you can sit back and relax while watching the beautiful banks of the Avon river. When in the area, why not rent a kayak or row boat after regaining some energy after the coffee break.
Neil Bates/Shutterstock.comTruffle Cafe
Lighter food, perfect coffee and drinks are served at this small bustling café close to Merivale Mall. This is a perfect place to pop in for a quick bite or for home baked scones, pies and other delicious treats, and it is all served by the friendly staff.
Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.comBlack Betty Cafe
Black Betty is a busy café where students hang during the week and young families spend their time during the weekend. It has a combination of great coffee, interesting decor and a warm atmosphere. If you like strong coffee, they serve some of the city's finest espresso.
Olena Yakobchuk/Shutterstock.comAddington Coffee Co-op
What used to be an old mechanics workshop was transformed into the much loved Addington Coffee Co-op in 2008. A big point of difference is their commitment to using Fair Trade products. While you are having your coffee, why not wash some clothes, they offer coin-operated laundromat.
StudioByTheSea/Shutterstock.comCrafted Coffee Company
Founded by Carl Sara, four times New Zealand barista winner, Crafted Coffee Company really knows how to make quality coffee. They source their tasty coffee from around the world, from farmers, small Co-ops and friends. If hungry, they have a breakfast and lunch menu too.
Marian Weyo/Shutterstock.comAikman's
If you're looking for a place where afternoon coffees turn into evening cocktails then Aikman's is a great place to try. Seamless indoor outoor flow makes this a great year round venue, with cozy outdoor fire and courtyard seating to complement the plush interiors.
loreanto/Shutterstock.comJoe's Garage Sumner
Joe's Garage is a casual café with good food and excellent all day breakfasts. Open from 7am until late in the evening, all are welcome to enjoy a meal or a beverage in one of their outdoor areas. Pop by on a Sunday when they have two for one pizza night from 5pm.
thanasarn/Shutterstock.comPassengers & Co
Close proximity to Christchurch Airport, this café is located at the Airport Business Park. Open daily this is a funky new café and bar offering delicious and fresh cabinet and menu items. Well worth checking out if you are staying on that side of town.
3523studio/Shutterstock.comThe Quarters at Riccarton House
The Quarters at Riccarton House is set in the tranquil garden setting of the original Deans homestead. Open for lunch and afternoon teas with fresh produce sourced from Christchurch Farmers' Market held on the grounds every Saturday. Great food, great wine, great service in a beautiful setting.
Sheryl Watson/shutterstockUntouched World Kitchen
Untouched World Kitchen is one of the country's leading organic eateries. The food is prepared with the freshest seasonal produce and organic when possible. Besides the outstanding food, diners can enjoy the courtyard garden, which is inspired by the New Zealand countryside with running water, ferns and native trees.
michaeljung/Shutterstock.comThe Raspberry Cafe
Located 25 minutes drive south of Christchurch this is the place to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a brilliant local reputation this is the perfect place to relax, have a leisurely lunch and in the summer time you can pick raspberries, strawberries and blueberries from the fields behind the café.
aodaodaodaod/Shutterstock.comDunsandel Café & Store
The perfect place to stop on your way south of Christchurch. Situated 40 kilometers south on Main South Road is a must stop. It combines an old-fashioned country store with a much acclaimed and loved café. The deli counter is loaded with house-made savory food, cakes and slices while the seasonal café menu features simple yet sophisticated food.
Barbara Dudzinska/Shutterstock.comShe Chocolaterie
She Chocolaterie serves up an impressive selection of chocolate desserts and drinks, and has earned a spot in the Lonely Planet Top 10 culinary guide. You can watch the Chocolate Alchemists crafting their sweet delights on-site — or you could opt for the popular weekly Chocolate and Culinary Tour. The signature Chocolate Elixir is strong, rich, and exactly as stated on the menu. Pair that with a chocolate raspberry ball that isn't too sweet, and you've got a treat that truly hits the spot.
Happy Together/Shutterstock.comNor'Wester Cafe
The multi award winning Nor' Wester - restaurant, wine bar & café, situated in the heart of rural town Amberley, creates an opportunity to indulge all your senses. Less than an hour drive from Christchurch it has been serving beautiful food, fine wine and good coffee since 1997.
tongcom photographer/Shutterstock.comC1 Espresso
Finding its home in Christchurch's old post office building from the 1930s, this cafe has become a Christchurch institution. If hungry, try one of the mouth-watering dishes such as pan fried prawns or chicken Caesar salad. Portion size permitting, your order will be delivered in a playfully retro manner — via pneumatic tubes! A place full of character, excellent coffee, friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere.
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