Christchurch, often referred to as the Garden City, is not only known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture but also for its diverse and delectable culinary scene.
On my recent trip to Christchurch, I embarked on a gastronomic adventure, exploring six incredible dining spots that left a lasting impression. Each place offered a unique experience, from fine dining to cozy cafes, and showcased the rich flavors and creativity of New Zealand cuisine.
1. Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar: A Sophisticated Dining Experience
Location and How to Get There
Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar is conveniently located in the heart of Christchurch at 48 Worcester Boulevard. This prime location is easily accessible, whether you’re walking through the city center or taking public transportation. The nearest tram stop is just a short stroll away, making it a perfect starting point for your culinary journey.
Deals, Prices, and Reservations
Fiddlesticks often offers a variety of specials, including a two-course lunch menu for NZD $35 and a three-course dinner menu for NZD $65. These deals provide excellent value for money, allowing you to sample their exquisite cuisine without breaking the bank. I made my reservation through their official website, which was seamless and straightforward.
My Dining Experience
Upon entering Fiddlesticks, I was immediately struck by its chic and contemporary decor. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. For my meal, I opted for the three-course dinner menu. I started with the house-made sourdough bread, served with a deliciously rich butter. For my entrée, I chose the duck liver parfait, which was creamy and flavorful, paired perfectly with spiced plum chutney and toasted brioche.
For the main course, I enjoyed the Canterbury lamb rack, cooked to perfection and accompanied by a medley of seasonal vegetables and a silky red wine jus. The lamb was tender and juicy, and the flavors were well-balanced and harmonious. To finish, I had the dark chocolate mousse, which was decadently rich and topped with hazelnut praline and vanilla bean ice cream.
Nearby Attractions
After dining at Fiddlesticks, I took a leisurely walk to the nearby Christchurch Art Gallery, located just a few minutes away. The gallery houses an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional New Zealand art, making it a perfect cultural complement to the culinary delights of Fiddlesticks.
Recommendation
Fiddlesticks Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience fine dining in Christchurch. With its excellent food, elegant atmosphere, and convenient location, I highly recommend it. I would rate it a 9/10 for its overall dining experience.
2. The George: Elegant Dining at Pescatore
Location and How to Get There
The George, an iconic luxury hotel, is located at 50 Park Terrace, just a short walk from Hagley Park. Pescatore, The George’s fine dining restaurant, offers stunning views of the park, adding to its sophisticated ambiance.
Deals, Prices, and Reservations
Pescatore offers a degustation menu priced at NZD $120 per person, with an optional wine pairing for an additional NZD $75. I made my reservation through The George’s official website, which was user-friendly and provided all necessary information about the dining experience.
My Dining Experience
Dining at Pescatore was a true gastronomic adventure. The degustation menu featured seven meticulously crafted courses, each highlighting local and seasonal ingredients. The meal began with an amuse-bouche of smoked eel, beetroot, and horseradish – a delightful combination of smoky, earthy, and tangy flavors.
One of the standout courses was the crayfish with cauliflower, almond, and citrus. The crayfish was succulent and sweet, perfectly balanced by the creamy cauliflower and crunchy almonds. Another highlight was the venison with black garlic, kumara, and juniper. The venison was tender and flavorful, complemented by the sweet kumara and aromatic juniper sauce.
For dessert, I enjoyed the lemon verbena panna cotta, served with poached rhubarb and raspberry sorbet. The panna cotta was silky smooth and fragrant, and the tartness of the rhubarb and raspberry provided a refreshing contrast.
Nearby Attractions
After my exquisite meal at Pescatore, I took a stroll through Hagley Park, which is right across the street. The park is one of Christchurch’s most beautiful green spaces, offering tranquil walking paths, a botanical garden, and picturesque views.
Recommendation
Pescatore at The George offers an exceptional fine dining experience with a focus on innovative and seasonal cuisine. The elegant setting and impeccable service make it a perfect choice for special occasions or a memorable night out. I would rate it a 10/10 for its outstanding culinary artistry and refined atmosphere.
3. C1 Espresso: Quirky and Innovative Cafe Culture
Location and How to Get There
C1 Espresso is located at 185 High Street, in the heart of Christchurch’s central business district. This unique cafe is housed in a historic building that survived the 2011 earthquake, adding to its charm and character. It’s easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation.
Deals, Prices, and Reservations
C1 Espresso offers a variety of reasonably priced dishes, with breakfast and lunch options ranging from NZD $12 to $25. No reservations are required, as the cafe operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
My Dining Experience
C1 Espresso is known for its quirky and inventive approach to cafe dining. The interior is filled with whimsical decor, including vintage typewriters, pneumatic tubes for delivering food, and retro arcade games. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great spot for a casual meal or coffee break.
I ordered the C1 Big Breakfast, which included free-range eggs, bacon, sausages, mushrooms, tomatoes, and sourdough toast. The ingredients were fresh and high-quality, and the portion was generous. I also tried their famous sliders, which are delivered to your table via the pneumatic tubes. The sliders were delicious, with juicy beef patties, melted cheese, and a tangy relish.
For dessert, I couldn’t resist the homemade doughnuts, filled with either chocolate or raspberry jam. The doughnuts were light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet – a delightful treat to end my meal.
Nearby Attractions
C1 Espresso is located near the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, also known as the Cardboard Cathedral. This innovative and eco-friendly structure is made primarily of cardboard and is a symbol of the city’s resilience and creativity. It’s definitely worth a visit after enjoying a meal at C1 Espresso.
Recommendation
C1 Espresso offers a unique and enjoyable dining experience with its quirky decor and inventive food delivery system. The quality of the food and the fun atmosphere make it a must-visit spot in Christchurch. I would rate it an 8.5/10 for its creativity and overall dining experience.
4. Twenty Seven Steps: Cozy and Contemporary Dining
Location and How to Get There
Twenty Seven Steps is located at 16 New Regent Street, in the heart of Christchurch’s vibrant and historic pedestrian mall. The restaurant is situated on the second floor, accessible by climbing the titular twenty-seven steps.
Deals, Prices, and Reservations
The menu at Twenty Seven Steps is reasonably priced, with mains ranging from NZD $30 to $45. They offer a three-course set menu for NZD $65, which provides excellent value for money. Reservations can be made through their official website or by phone.
My Dining Experience
Twenty Seven Steps has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with exposed brick walls, wooden floors, and cozy seating. The staff were friendly and attentive, making me feel right at home.
I started my meal with the smoked salmon and avocado tartare, which was fresh and vibrant, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. For the main course, I opted for the beef cheek, slow-cooked to tender perfection and served with creamy mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and a rich red wine jus.
For dessert, I indulged in the chocolate fondant, which was decadently rich and served with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The fondant had a perfectly gooey center, and the combination of warm chocolate and cold ice cream was heavenly.
Nearby Attractions
After dining at Twenty Seven Steps, I explored New Regent Street, one of Christchurch’s most charming areas. The street is lined with colorful Spanish Mission-style buildings, boutique shops, and cafes. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the unique atmosphere.
Recommendation
Twenty Seven Steps offers a delightful dining experience with its cozy ambiance, excellent food, and friendly service. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special night out. I would rate it a 9/10 for its wonderful food and inviting atmosphere.
5. Strangers Lane: A Hidden Gem for Food Lovers
Location and How to Get There
Strangers Lane is a hidden gem located at 219 High Street, in the bustling central business district of Christchurch. The entrance is somewhat inconspicuous, but once inside, you’ll find a vibrant and eclectic space.
Deals, Prices, and Reservations
Strangers Lane offers a variety of street food-inspired dishes, with prices ranging from NZD $10 to $25. They also have a happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm, offering discounted drinks and snacks. Reservations are not necessary, as it’s a casual dining spot.
My Dining Experience
Strangers Lane is a lively and colorful venue, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating. The atmosphere is casual and fun, making it a great place to relax and enjoy
some delicious food.
I ordered a selection of dishes to share, starting with the crispy pork belly bao buns. The bao buns were soft and fluffy, filled with succulent pork belly, pickled vegetables, and a tangy hoisin sauce. Next, I tried the Korean fried chicken, which was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a spicy and savory glaze.
One of my favorite dishes was the fish tacos, featuring fresh and flavorful fish, crunchy slaw, and a zesty lime crema. For dessert, I enjoyed the churros, served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce. The churros were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making for a perfect sweet treat.
Nearby Attractions
Strangers Lane is located near the Riverside Market, a bustling indoor market with a variety of food stalls, fresh produce, and artisan goods. It’s a great place to explore before or after your meal, offering a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
Recommendation
Strangers Lane is a fantastic spot for casual dining with its diverse and flavorful street food offerings. The lively atmosphere and great food make it a must-visit in Christchurch. I would rate it an 8/10 for its fun vibe and delicious dishes.
6. The Monday Room: A Unique Fusion Dining Experience
Location and How to Get There
The Monday Room is located at 161 High Street, in the heart of Christchurch’s central business district. The restaurant is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation.
Deals, Prices, and Reservations
The Monday Room offers a variety of dishes with a focus on fusion cuisine, with prices ranging from NZD $20 to $45. They also have a “Trust the Chef” menu for NZD $65 per person, which includes a selection of the chef’s choice dishes. Reservations can be made through their official website or by phone.
My Dining Experience
The Monday Room has a stylish and contemporary decor, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff were knowledgeable and enthusiastic, enhancing the overall dining experience.
I opted for the “Trust the Chef” menu, which allowed me to sample a variety of dishes. The meal began with a delicate tuna tartare, served with avocado, cucumber, and a sesame dressing. The flavors were fresh and vibrant, with a perfect balance of textures.
Next, I enjoyed the lamb ribs, which were tender and flavorful, glazed with a sweet and spicy sauce. The dish was accompanied by a refreshing fennel and apple slaw. One of the standout dishes was the miso-glazed eggplant, which was beautifully caramelized and paired with a fragrant herb salad.
For dessert, I was treated to a coconut panna cotta, served with passionfruit curd and toasted coconut. The panna cotta was silky smooth, and the tropical flavors were a delightful way to end the meal.
Nearby Attractions
The Monday Room is located near the Christchurch Arts Centre, a historic complex that houses galleries, artisan shops, and cafes. The Arts Centre is a great place to explore and enjoy some local culture and creativity.
Recommendation
The Monday Room offers a unique and exciting dining experience with its fusion cuisine and “Trust the Chef” menu. The stylish setting and excellent service make it a great choice for a special night out. I would rate it a 9/10 for its innovative dishes and inviting atmosphere.
Christchurch’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From fine dining at Pescatore and Fiddlesticks to casual bites at C1 Espresso and Strangers Lane, there’s something for every palate. Each of these dining spots offers not only delicious food but also a unique atmosphere and nearby attractions to enhance your visit.
