Dining
Once known mainly for its superb lamb, Canterbury and Christchurch are now gaining a reputation for a wide range of food and wine. Local meat produce includes venison, emu and ostrich. There is fresh seafood readily available including scallops, crayfish and Mount Cook Salmon, all which are recommended. Canterbury is also a large wine producing region, specializing in Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Syda Productions/Shutterstock.comTramway Restaurant
Combine an evening tour around the city with a three-course meal onboard the unique and historic setting of a Christchurch tram. The only restaurant tram in New Zealand, this will for sure be a unique dining experience. Enjoy fine service, cuisine and beverages while sightseeing around the inner city.
ChameleonsEye/shutterstockCurators House Restaurant
This converted historic house in the Botanic Gardens serves authentic Spanish Cuisine and boasts the most picturesque outdoor dining area in the city. An elegant restaurant serving dishes such as Spanish paella and tapas including lamb and fish dishes.
stockcreations/Shutterstock.comKinji Japanese Restaurant
Friendly staff and delicious dishes made from the freshest local ingredients has made this restaurant to one of the most popular Japanese restaurants in Christchurch. On the menu, you will find dishes such as sushi, sashimi, oysters, chicken and tempura dishes. To be safe to get a seat, make a reservation in advance.
TY Lim/Shutterstock.comCostas Taverna
For four generations, the Lakakis family have had the passion for cooking unforgettable food. At Costas Taverna you can order their traditional Greek dishes made to perfection, prepared only with the freshest local and imported ingredients. Don't forget to pair the delicacies with one (or more) of their many Ouzos.
ARENA Creative/Shutterstock.comStrawberry Fare
Strawberry Fare is keeping it simple but still scrumptious with the best ingredients. This family-run restaurant tries to use only organic and free range products in their cooking. The menu holds an array of international dishes and don't miss their popular desserts.
S_Photo/Shutterstock.comWinnie Bagoes City
Winnie Bagoes City is the perfect place for a get-together over a gourmet pizza. With 21 creative variations on offer, there's bound to be a pizza to tickle everyone's fancy. And if pizza isn't quite your thing — no worries, the menu boasts an array of tempting pastas and fresh salads, too. Established in 1989, this Canterbury icon takes pride in its innovative yet time-tested pizza recipes. They cater to the traditionalists and the adventurous, with flavors reflecting the diverse nature of New Zealand culture.
Jyliana/Shutterstock.comKing of Snake
Imagine a space bathed in sensual, dark red tones — a space that serves up a tantalizing fusion of Asian and New Zealand cuisine. That's this hidden gem for you. The ambiance is chic, yet relaxd, and the entire restaurant resonates with thoughtful design. There's even a beautiful outdoor balcony overlooking the Avon river. It's a bustling place, but worry not — the service is always swift and friendly. When you visit, don't miss out on the deep-fried ice cream!
Kzenon/Shutterstock.comBurgers & Beers
Looking for the most sought after chips in town? Scoop a seat at Christchurch’s most popular burger bar, Burgers & Beers, where you will be well looked after by the run-off-their-feet (but cheery) staff. "Bloody good" burgers guaranteed!
Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.comFiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar
Fiddlesticks is a stylish and relaxed bar and restaurant. Take to the sheltered courtyard on a sunny day or warm up in front of a roaring outdoor fire. Fiddlesticks serve sensational, in-season local fare for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.
ESB Professional/Shutterstock.comLittle High Eatery
Little High Eatery is a trendy food court featuring nine local, family-run restaurants offering international cuisine. Enjoy diverse dishes like dumplings, bao, and pork belly burgers in a modern, vibrant space.
Magdanatka/shutterstockCasa Publica
Casa Publica offers elevated South American dishes and over 160 rum varieties. Enjoy live music, fresh tableside guacamole, and a classy tavern setting that pays homage to prohibition-era rum mastery.
eugena-klykova/shutterstock