Where to go and what to see
Foodie treats, high tea or a leisurely brunch in beautiful surroundings is the stuff of holiday memories. Christchurch delivers in spades with river views, 19th century Edwardian stone glory or heritage buildings reimagined into cafes.
Curator’s House
A touch of Spanish heat and elegance within the Botanic Gardens. Traditional Spanish cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients supplemented with produce from the home garden creates a spectacular summer al fresco experience. In winter a cosy fire adds glamour to the chill of Christchurch evening. Guests are invited to wander through the heritage home and gardens adding to the experience.
Penny Black Victorian Tearoom
Fine bone china tea sets, beautifully starched white tablecloth and silverware fit for Queen Victoria greets guests to the Penny Black Victorian Tearooms. Freshly ground coffee or an extensive range of teas accompany the high tea treats perched on their tiered cake stands. Savour the moment as you decide which delicious morsel to try first.
The Tannery is an old industrial precinct from the 19th century is now home to a retail complex boasting stunning architecture and art, and home to a concentration of boutique shops. Source: The Tannery story.
Sign of the Takahe
Faux castle complete with stone turrets and a suit of armour perched on the Port Hills is a great place to capture the Edwardian era. The historic building (1918) is a glorious take on European castle heritage. The stone walls are wrapped with stained glass windows and family crests. The atmosphere is quiet elegance and the perfect place for a leisurely brunch / lunch or a coffee and snack. A great place to stop on your way to Lyttelton Harbour and beyond to the Banks Peninsula.
Mona Vale Homestead and Pantry
Romantic river views combined with a contemporary well regarded menu is the makings of a memorable moment dining in Christchurch. For special occasions arrive in style in punt. Mona Vale Pantry is a high tea destination as well. The gracious Victorian building is a heritage beauty and operates as a wedding, special occasions and meeting venue. The 5.5 hectares of garden park remains one of Christchurch’s favourite wedding locations, while the Mona Vale Iris Lawn is ideal for ceremonies with a marquee set for the reception.
Christchurch Tramway Restaurant
Imagine a constantly changing cityscape view as you gently trundle around the garden city of Christchurch. Hop onboard a vintage tram and dine in a unique moving location. Bookings are essential for this very popular visitor experience. The menu has seasonal fixed offerings including a welcome drink, starter, entree, main, dessert and tea or coffee. There are selections within the menu including gluten free, dairy free and vegetarian options.
Handy hint
Ballantynes
Stroll through a classic department store. The Ballantyne tea rooms are a confection of pink floral wall paper contrasting with black on white decor. While the cafe is a standard urban cafe menu the gem of Ballantynes offerings is the Ballantynes Home Kitchen. For a gourmet picnic hamper or meals for your inhouse catering in your guest accommodation.
For more ideas about where to eat and drink in Christchurch check out Christchurch brunch, lunch 7 places to eat – Best Bits and picnic spots Christchurch top picnic spots – Best Bits.
BEST BITS TRAVEL GUIDE
Best Bits travel guide is published by nzjane.com. Owned and managed by PacificJane Ltd.
Our editors independently visit tour operators, purchase tickets, pay for accommodation, and rate products and places. We are not paid to go on a tour or visit a place. We only make money if you decide to purchase a product through our website links. We promise to never accept free products from manufacturers in return for boosting their products. Read more about our affiliate programme in the terms and conditions HERE.
