Eateries
30 March 2026
Christchurch dining precincts
Discover the best of Christchurch's dining precincts. From heritage charm on New Regent St to riverside bars at The Terrace and casual dining at Little High Eatery.
Where are the best dining precincts in Christchurch?
Ōtautahi Christchurch has an array of top restaurants and culinary hot spots woven throughout the central city.
These distinct dining precincts anchor the city's hospitality scene, and the beauty of our compact city is that you can easily walk between these.
Each hub has its own architectural personality and culinary soul. From high-energy food markets to world-class dining and romantic heritage streets, Christchurch has you more than covered on the food scene.
What are the best streets for restaurants & bars in Christchurch?
New Regent Street
Christchurch’s most beautiful street, famous for its 1930s Spanish Mission architecture and the passing tram.
This is the premier spot for boutique dining, sophisticated cocktails, casual lunches, and home to iconic gelato and viral cinnamon scrolls.
Key spots: Story, Twenty Seven Steps, Central Deli Sandwiches, Zoyi Bakerhouse, Gin Gin, The Last Word, & Rollickin Gelato.
Location: New Regent Street (between Armagh & Gloucester).
Hours: open daily, with varying open hours between businesses.
The Terrace
The city’s cosmopolitan heartbeat overlooking the Avon River.
With sleek glass balconies, luxurious interiors, and high-energy bars, it’s the place for world-class dining and vibrant nightlife.
Key spots: King of Snake, Roca, Hugo, Zodiac, Chiwahwah, & Amazonita.
Location: Oxford Terrace (between Cashel & Hereford).
Hours: open daily, with varying open hours between businesses.
Victoria Street
A vibrant mix of Christchurch’s most creative kitchens and lively social spots, where polished dining meets a relaxed atmosphere.
This is the go-to precinct for everything from a quick mid-week taco and a beer to experimental small plates and late-night wine, all set within one of the city’s most energetic streets.
Key spots: Londo, Gatherings, You Hanoi Me, Boo's, Mexicano’s, The Mayfair, The Goldfinch, Athens Yacht Club, & Vesuvio.
Location: Victoria Street (between Bealey Ave & Salisbury Street).
Hours: open daily; cafes lead the morning trade while the area truly comes alive from late afternoon into the night.
Where are the best casual marketplaces & food halls in Christchurch?
Riverside Market
A 7-day indoor market celebrating local Canterbury makers.
This is a high-energy hub where you can buy local produce, grab a strong coffee, or enjoy world-class international street food in a vibrant and casual setting.
Upstairs, you can also dine at one of the restaurants if you're looking for something a little less on the casual side. Midnight Shanghai is a popular spot up here.
Key spots: Dimitri’s Greek Food, Base Woodfired Pizza, Shaka Bros, Bellbird Bakery, & Malaysia Delights.
Location: corner of Cashel Street & Oxford Terrace.
Hours: market stalls 7:30 am - 8:00 pm | Restaurants serve until late.
Little High Eatery
A unique food hall, where you can experience eleven different local and family-run businesses inside a modern marketplace.
Communal seating makes it the ultimate social melting pot for groups with diverse cravings looking for a casual dining experience.
Key spots: Bacon Brothers, Eightgrains, Lucas, & Boom Boom Chicken.
Location: 255 St Asaph Street (accessible via High Street).
Hours: daily, 11:00 am - 10:00 pm.
Where are the best places to eat near the new stadium in Christchurch?
The Salt District
The Salt District is the city's edgy, creative soul, characterised by restored heritage brick and fairy-lit laneways.
This precinct is set for a massive 2026, as it sits right on the doorstep of the brand-new One NZ Stadium.
It’s the ultimate destination for a pre-event brew or a soulful dinner afterwards.
Key spots: The Monday Room, Dux Central, Smash Palace, Earl, & Bohemian Bakery.
Location: High Street and St Asaph Street (between Cashel & Tuam).
Hours: open daily, with varying open hours between businesses.
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