Restaurants in Christchurch

Christchurch's dining scene has undergone a vibrant revival since the earthquakes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and creative, globally inspired cooking. From riverside eateries in the Re:START container mall to sophisticated spots in the Arts Centre, you'll find everything from hearty brunches to elegant dinners. The city's proximity to Canterbury's farms, vineyards, and coast means menus are packed with seasonal produce, seafood, and award-winning wines.

Highlights & What to See

• Riverside Market – A bustling indoor food hall on the Avon River, with dozens of stalls offering everything from sushi to craft beer and wood-fired pizza.
• Inati – A fine-dining gem known for its degustation menus that showcase Canterbury's best produce, with a warm, unpretentious vibe.
• Twenty Seven Steps – A cozy, intimate spot above a bar, serving modern European dishes with a New Zealand twist – perfect for a romantic dinner.
• Bessie – A stylish steakhouse that sources premium local beef and offers a superb wine list, all in a relaxed setting.
• King of Snake – A lively, pan-Asian restaurant in the Arts Centre, blending Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese flavours in a converted lecture theatre.
• Addington Coffee Co-op – A community-focused café with excellent coffee, hearty breakfasts, and a commitment to fair trade and sustainability.
• Fiddlesticks – A fun, casual spot for contemporary comfort food and craft cocktails, with a sunny courtyard.

Suggested Time to Spend

If you're a food lover, plan at least two days to explore Christchurch's diverse dining options. Spend one day grazing through Riverside Market and the Re:START container eateries, and another enjoying a leisurely lunch at a vineyard in nearby Waipara or a dinner at one of the city's top restaurants. For a quick visit, a single evening dedicated to a standout restaurant like Inati or Twenty Seven Steps will give you a memorable taste of the city's culinary prowess.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Waipara Valley – New Zealand's fastest-growing wine region, just 45 minutes north, with cellar doors and vineyard restaurants perfect for a day trip.
• Lyttelton – A quirky port town with a thriving food scene, including the famous Lyttelton Coffee Company and harbourside fish-and-chip shops.
• Akaroa – A charming French-influenced village on Banks Peninsula, known for its seafood and scenic harbour views.
• Canterbury Plains – Farm-to-table experiences and rustic country pubs dot the plains, ideal for a self-drive lunch excursion.
• Christchurch Farmers' Market – Held every Saturday at Riccarton House, offering local produce, artisan breads, and street food.

Please check official sources for current details.