Eateries
11 December 2025
New foodie spots to try in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Discover Christchurch's newest dining spots from intimate bars to viral eateries and fresh café openings across the city.
Where to find Christchurch's newest restaurants, cafes, bars & treat spots
The Christchurch food scene is buzzing with exciting new openings and fresh flavours. Whether you're after intimate cocktail bars, gourmet toasties, artisan gelato, or viral cookie shops, here's your guide to the latest must-visit spots transforming Christchurch into a culinary destination. From the CBD to Riccarton, these new venues are already making waves with locals and visitors alike.
Looking for a hidden gem in the CBD? Kisi Bar
Tucked away behind Gatherings restaurant, Kisi Bar is a 14-seater that packs a punch. Low lighting, intimate vibes, bespoke furniture that leans into the space’s natural feel. The drinks list? Solid. $10 weekly wine pours, wines from around the world, a cocktail list that delivers, and Three Boys Brewery on tap.
The kitchen keeps it small and seasonal with one main $15 dish each night & snacky bits to keep you satisfied, and the best part? They never close early.
Good for:
- Intimate date nights
- Post-dinner drinks in a cosy setting
- Wine lovers wanting something different
- Escaping the noise without leaving the city
What's the name of the new cafe in Christchurch city with the Melbourne vibe? Rook Cafe
Our city’s new spot for specialty and experimental coffee. From creamy Mont Blancs (please yum!) to classics & inventive brews, this café is built for both coffee and conversation.
It’s super modern, thoughtfully designed and all about people and community. With the bar right in the heart, inviting you to grab a seat, chill, and connect.
It’s a bit of Melbourne in Ōtautahi and perfect for cafe lovers, seeking Christchurch’s best coffee experience.
Good for:
- Specialty coffee that's worth the hype
- Catching up with friends in stylish surroundings
- Working remotely with excellent caffeine
- Experiencing the CBD's modern revival
Has Duck Island Ice Cream opened in Christchurch? Yes, it has!
New Zealand's favourite Duck Island Ice Cream opened its first South Island store in Christchurch in October 2025 at the corner of Tuam and High Streets. With up to 24 flavours available, including vegan and allergy-friendly options. Duck Island serves up creative combinations like Fairy Bread, Toasted Marshmallow, and Peanut Butter Cookie Dough. Their take-home freezer stocks both pints and ice cream sandwiches, so you can never run out.
Good for:
- Bold, inventive flavour combinations
- Vegan and allergy-friendly options
- Late-night treats (open until 11:30 pm Thursday -Saturday)
- Take-home pints and ice cream sandwiches
Where's the newest Rollickin location? Rollickin Riccarton
With three locations across Christchurch – New Regent Street, Cashel Street, and now Riccarton – you can't miss these bright spots. Made from local organic milk, Rollickin creates delicious gelato and sorbet with gluten, dairy, egg, and soy-free options. Expect inventive flavours packed with cake chunks, berry sauces, chocolate dollops, and hokey pokey pieces, plus an incredible hot dessert range. Pop in to soak up the groovy vibes and enjoy treats until 11 pm on weekends.
Good for:
- Late-night dessert dates in the CBD
- Gluten, dairy, egg, and soy-free options
- Creative flavour combinations with mix-ins
- Free tastings before you commit
- Hot desserts paired with ice cream
Where's the viral cookie shop everyone's obsessed with? The Cookie Trader
Move over Crumbl, The Cookie Trader has arrived. This viral cookie bakery is selling over 2,000 cookies a day from their CBD location, with queues regularly snaking out the door. Serving up chunky, warm cookies in rotating weekly flavours alongside Coffee Supreme brews, this place has captured Gen Z hearts and taste buds. At $6.50 per cookie, these aren't your average biscuits – they're gooey, indulgent experiences best enjoyed fresh and warm.
Good for:
- Cookie enthusiasts and sweet tooths
- Those that like more filling than cookie
- Trying the latest viral food trend
- Coffee and cookie combo dates
- Taking home six-packs for sharing (or not)
Where can I find French fine dining? Hugo
Hugo French Bistro brings authentic Parisian flair to The Terrace, offering beautiful river views alongside comprehensive French wine lists and classic French cuisine. This is no-fuss, all-technique French cooking where the love is in the mise en place. With romance, attention to detail, and delicious cocktails, Hugo is creating a little corner of France right in the heart of Christchurch.
Good for:
- Special occasion dining
- French wine enthusiasts
- Romantic evenings with river views
- Experiencing classic French bistro culture
When is Embassy Coffee opening on Cashel Street?
While Coffee Embassy already operates their excellent roastery and espresso bar on Fitzgerald Avenue, keep your eyes peeled for updates about their Cashel Street location. In the meantime, their existing Cellar Door (as locals call it) is serving some of the best specialty coffee in Christchurch, roasted three days a week on-site using a 15kg Joper roaster. They're also B Corp certified and serious about sustainability.
Good for:
- Specialty coffee aficionados
- Supporting local, sustainable roasters
- Exploring Christchurch's coffee scene
- Quality cabinet food and cheese scones
Is Toastie Lords now in Christchurch? Yes, on High Street
The Picton phenomenon has officially landed in Christchurch at 181 High Street, bringing their famous loaded toasties to the 03. Known for creative combinations and generous fillings, Toastie Lords has built a massive online following, with people flocking from far and wide to get their hands on these cheesy sandos. You'll find them open 7 days a week, serving up crunchy, loaded sandwiches from 9am to 7pm.
Good for:
- Quick lunch on High Street
- Comfort food cravings
- Trying viral food everyone's talking about
- Budget-friendly meals in the CBD
Regularly new kids on the block
Christchurch's food scene is constantly evolving, so keep checking back for updates on opening dates and new additions to this list. Got a tip about a new opening? Let us know!
Be sure to share your foodie inspiration with us @christchurchnz #christchurchnz
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