Eateries
4 March 2025
Best international eats in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Explore the most popular global cuisine in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Where are the best places in Christchurch to eat international food?
There's no need to grab your passport, in Ōtautahi you can travel the world plate by plate. From the ever-popular Afghan Restaurant and Burmese cuisine to French and Argentinian options, there's so much to choose from.
Where can you get authentic Afghan cuisine in Christchurch?
The Afghan Restaurant on Lincoln Road is a bit iconic on the Christchurch foodie scene. Arrive to order, but make sure you check the dedicated Facebook group 'Is AFG Open? ' as this restaurant tends to choose their opening hours whenever suits. That novelty is EXACTLY why there are lines of hungry diners out the door and down the street when AFG is open.
Once inside, place your order (your choices are option 1 or 2). Option 1 feeds two people, option 2 feeds four. We guarantee whichever option you pick, there will be leftovers. AFG's mouthwatering chargrilled kebabs, seasoned rice, homemade house salad and a specialty chicken curry will have you refreshing the Facebook page for days.
Good for:
- Affordable and authentic
- Carnivores dream feed
- An easy choice (1 or 2)
Looking for Burmese cuisine? Rangoon Ruby
Ever tried Burmese food? You might remember The Bodhi Tree, which was an iconic Christchurch restaurant for many years. Well, if you've been out of the food scene for a while, you might not realise that the same owners also run Rangoon Ruby. Rangoon Ruby on Colombo Street is an inner-city eatery dedicated to bringing the best of Burmese cuisine to Christchurch. Their most popular dishes include chicken curry, tea leaf salad, and coconut cake, with plenty of vegan options available too!
Good for:
- Light meals
- Fresh ingredients
- Many vegan options
Feel like a French sweet treat? J'aime Les Macarons
Grab your beret and slip away... to Merivale. J'aime Les Macarons translates to 'I love Macarons' in French, and boy oh boy do we love these beautiful creations too! Colourful, bright and chewy, these sweet, luxurious treats on offer will leave you wanting more.
Light and delicate yet exceptionally satisfying, the macarons are made locally with fresh ingredients and seasonal flavours. For those who truly wish to indulge, try the 'Grande Macaron', an upsized salted butter caramel, with chunks of dark chocolate ganache. We are salivating already.
Good for:
- Specialty giant macaron
- Parisian chic vibe
- Nationwide delivery gift options
Popular Mexican restaurant in the city? Mexicano's
Be sure to arrive hungry as you won't want to miss a single bite on your plate at this vibrant Victoria Street hotspot. Grab sombreros for your squad and start with chips salsa and guac for the table straight away! NOW you can relax and take time to browse the rest of the menu. You can't go wrong with the soft shell tacos or crispy fired potato skins. The thought of the sticky beef quesadilla has us drooling already...
Tender and juicy, drizzled with syrup to balance the salty spice, the Mexicano's fried chicken will become your new staple. It's ordered by nearly every table and is delicious. The grilled corn is also a must try but is only available in season.
Good for:
- Sangria
- Sombreros
- Fried Chicken
Where can you get Argentinian barbecued meats in Christchurch? El Quincho
The name El Quincho comes from the term Argentinians use to describe the outdoor corner of every home where Argentinians come together to cook asado and share it with those they love.
While we’re miles away from South America, the team behind El Quincho brings the spirit to Riverside Market. Dishing up feasts such as the Quincho Parrillada, empanadas, and even burgers, you can watch the masters on the grill as you wait.
Good for:
- Provoleta (grilled cheese), need we say more
- Watch the meat grill before your eyes
- Beef n Chips (must try!)
The best Chinese restaurant in Sumner? Miss Peppercorn
If you're in the mood for authentic Chinese food, look no further than Sumner’s Miss Peppercorn. Locally famous for their traditional Sichuan hand-pulled noodles, made from scratch dumplings and the unique flavour (and experience) of Szechuan peppercorns throughout their dishes, Miss Peppercorn is the place for flavourful Chinese with a bite. While you visit, why not treat your taste buds to something new? Try the traditional duck head!
Good for:
- Gluten-Free options
- Traditional dishes (try the duck head)
- Authentic hand-pulled noodles
The best Korean food in Christchurch? TJ's Korean Restaurant
For some of the best Korean food you've ever had, head to TJ's Korean Restaurant. Think sizzling Korean barbecue and authentic, hearty comfort dishes. TJ’s is a go-to for those in the know and a hidden gem on Straven Road. The spicy pork bone soup and beef rib hot pot are must-try items on the menu. Mix the incredible food with great service, and you have a perfect night out for any foodie.
Good for:
- Provoleta (grilled cheese), need we say more
- Watch the meat grill before your eyes
- Beef n Chips (must try!)
More options
Where are the best Souvlakis in Christchurch? Dimitris Greek Food
Where are the best Souvlakis in Christchurch? Dimitris Greek Food
Dimitris is a Christchurch institution; this family-run business has been serving up the most delicious souvlakis and gyros since 1985. What makes Dimitris so good, you ask? It has to be the tzatziki, hummus and falafel they make in-house, as well as the marinade they slather their meats in. You can try them for yourself at Riverside Market, on Oxford Terrace.
Good for:
- Casual lunch or dinner options
- Takeaway
- Delicious, healthy Greek food
What's the best Italian in Christchurch? Francesca’s Italian Kitchen
Italian food often dances between fine dining and comfort food, and we think Francesca’s Italian Kitchen has nailed that mixture perfectly. Located next to Isaac Theatre Royal, this bustling little place features plenty of candles, intimate table settings, and a wood-fired pizza oven to set the mood.
Come hungry, as you’ll want to experience everything on the menu, from the bruschetta with pan-fried mushroom, pear and gorgonzola salad, and margherita pizza to the housemade potato gnocchi, merino lamb shoulder ragu, and tiramisu.
Good for:
- Homemade gnocchi
- Al dentate pasta
- Polenta fries to die for
Where can you eat authentic Japanese in Christchurch? Tomi Japanese
Tucked away in the Edgeware Village, Tomi Japanese is as authentic as it gets. Opened by a seasoned chef with his wife and her father, Tomi emphasises family values and weaves them into their passionate, authentic Japanese dishes. With sashimi, sushi, and homemade flavoured ice creams stealing the show, you’ll find indulgence at every turn.
Set in a quiet, authentic-style space, you’ll experience Japanese hospitality to its highest quality - and just wait until you try the sake.
Good for:
- Sake!
- Home made ice cream
- Authentic, fresh Japanese
Where can you get Sri Lankan food in Christchurch?
For fragrant curries and the unmistakable warmth of Sri Lankan cooking, Ceylon Kitchen is a spot you'll want to check out. This spot is a hidden gem in Christchurch for those who love richly spiced, flavourful food. Traditional Sri Lankan Kotthu and Lumprice are favourite dishes among their customers and are good to try if you are new to Sri Lankan food.
Good for:
- Sri Lankan delicacies
- Vegetarian dishes
- Spicy flavourful food
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