Eateries
8 May 2026
New and trending 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.
What's the name of the viral banh mi place in Riccarton? Bruce’s Banh Mi
If you’ve noticed a line forming outside a bright yellow shopfront on Riccarton Road, you’ve found Bruce’s Banh Mi.
Bringing authentic Vietnamese street food to the suburbs, Bruce and his team have mastered the art of the perfect baguette: shatteringly crisp on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside.
While the classic Pork Liver Pate is a must-try for purists, it’s the Lemongrass Chicken and the succulent Pork Belly that have locals coming back weekly.
Each roll is perfectly balanced, loaded with zingy pickled carrots, fresh coriander, and just the right amount of chilli heat.
It’s fast, fresh, and arguably one of the best value-for-money lunches in Ōtautahi right now.
Good for:
- Authentic Vietnamese street food
- Quick, high-quality lunch on the go
- Generous fillings and traditional recipes
- A vibrant, friendly atmosphere in the heart of Riccarton
Where can you find viral Dubai chocolate desserts in Christchurch? Sip N Dip
If your social feed has been taken over by Dubai chocolate and loaded acai bowls, Sip N Dip is the reason why.
This high-energy dessert spot has quickly expanded across Christchurch, bringing a decadent, Middle Eastern-inspired twist to the city’s late-night food scene.
Known for their signature Knafeh Strawberry Cups and the viral Dubai Pistachio Strawberry Cup, Sip N Dip does it all.
Whether you're after a refreshing organic acai bowl topped with Biscoff and fresh fruit or a thick, Nutella-loaded cheesecake, this is the ultimate destination for those with a serious sweet tooth.
Good for:
- Viral dessert trends (Dubai chocolate and Knafeh)
- Loaded organic acai bowls
- Late-night sugar cravings
- Dessert dates and group treats
Where can you get authentic 72-hour fermented pizza? Gussy’s Pizza
If you're looking for the city's newest cult-favorite slice, head to the Sydenham underpass. Gussy’s is all about the biga — a traditional pre-fermentation process that results in a 16-inch XL pizza with a signature airy, charred crust and deep flavour.
Tucked away in the gritty, unpretentious Sydenham Underpass on Sandyford Street, Gussy’s has quickly moved from a hidden gem to a must-visit spot for pizza enthusiasts.
Whether it's their sweet-and-spicy Pepperoni with Hot Honey or the rich, garlic-butter-crusted Umami Mushroom, each pizza is a labour of love that takes three days to prep before hitting the oven.
Good for:
- Authentic, slow-fermented XL pizza
- Casual vibes
- A quick, high-quality takeaway
- Trying unique flavour combos like Vodka Cheese or Hot Honey Pepperoni
What is the new pasta place in town?
Pasta Pasta
The lunch (and dinner) spot Ōtautahi has been missing; quick enough for a work break but not skipping over the fresh part. Pasta Pasta on High Street is a great place for a casual yet impressive lunch or dinner.
Forget checkered tablecloths, they're all about the pink, with a baby pink aesthetic, a sleek interior, and a focus on fast service and perfect sauce ratios.
Without trying too hard, they’ve built a space where quality Italian food is for everyone.
Good for:
- Fresh, fast-casual pasta
- Large group dining (tables for 6–20)
- Vibrant, high-energy atmosphere
Where can you get delicious Lebanese food in Christchurch? Lucas
Your new go-to for charcoal-cooked shawarma, crispy falafel, irresistible sharing plates, and house-made sauces you can even take home.
Lucas is showing Ōtautahi that flavour, simplicity, and genuine hospitality are the perfect recipe.
Dine in at Little High’s new courtyard or takeaway to enjoy at home.
Good for:
- Fresh, healthy Lebanese food
- Sharing platters & individual meals
- Casual dining
- Takeaway or enjoy onsite at Little High
Where can you get the viral cinnamon scrolls in Christchurch? Zoyi Bakerhouse
These just might be the best cinnamon scrolls in Christchurch.
Meet Zoyi Bakerhouse, located at 221-235 Manchester St (Wilson carpark), these sweet treats are quickly becoming a must-visit for foodies and sweet treat lovers.
Created by Sukh Singh, these scrolls are next level, with mountains of toppings in unique and creative flavour combos. Think crème brûlée with caramelised sugar, or the current foodie fav, pistachio. Oh, and they also serve fresh matcha in a can!
Open Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am – 3 pm (or until sold out).
Good for:
- Boujie cinnamon scrolls
- Those after a sweet treat
- Takeaways
- Matcha in a can
New kids on the block regularly
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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