Eateries
24 March 2025
Where to dine outside in Christchurch
Summer dining in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Outside dining in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Ahh, the glorious joys of a lazy afternoon lunch, cocktail in hand, sitting in the summer sun. Christchurch is celebrated as a vibrant city with an incredible hospitality scene, and relishing in the hidden verandas, patios, and balconies are summer’s sweetest pleasures. Check out our top spots for inner city spaces to dine al fresco.
Little High Eatery
Little High Eatery is a must-visit summer destination when in the central city — the huge outdoor courtyard is the perfect spot for summer dining. Take in the various smells, the buzz, and the sounds of the food hall as you peruse the many food options. At times, there is live music, buskers and various entertainment happening here too. Plus, there’s even a bunch of arcade games to keep everyone occupied.
The Craft Embassy
If you want to see what The Terrace is all about but aren’t ready to get amongst the hubbub, we suggest an outdoor table on Craft Embassy’s balcony. You’ll look down from your sheltered (great for a rainy day!) spot onto The Terrace’s most popular spots, offering a safe distance to people watch with a craft pint. We highly suggest settling in for a session - their rotating taps are sure to make any beer aficionado swoon.
OGB
OGB sits opposite the cathedral and is a beacon of live music, speak-easy-style drinks, and high-class service in an often-forgotten city corner. Their large patio is the perfect place for those warm summer nights, but if there's live music or a warm breeze, be sure to get there early — those seats fill up fast!
New Regent Street
With its colourful, Spanish mission style architecture, New Regent Street is a great foodie location that boasts an abundance of unique restaurants, vibrant bars and indulgent dessert spots. Go for fine dining or more casual eats, sip away at whiskey lounge, The Last Word or head straight for something sweet at Rollickin Gelato. Grab a table outside and you might even catch the tram running down the middle of the street. It's as iconic to Christchurch and summer as it gets!
Riverside Market
A place made for the sunny summer days, Riverside Market leaves you spoiled for choice with outdoor spaces. Enjoy the rooftop views and modern brews and eats from Midnight Shanghai or Kaiser Brew Bar or park yourself at the picnic tables for a feast from El Quincho or Herba Gourmet. For hidden gems, look no further than a spot in the brick alleyways while chowing down on a Shaka Bros burger or some noods from Ramen Ria.
Muy Muy Tapas And Margarita Bar
Sit out in the courtyard and sip on cocktails at Muy Muy. This vibrant bar is big enough to fit very large groups and there are regular events that just ooze summer vibes – think Latin dance parties and cocktail masterclasses. They also have live music daily and a happy hour from 4-6pm to get the evening started off right. Choose some delicious things to share from their Mexican tapas menu to fill your belly as you soak in the atmosphere.
Cellar Door
Cosy, historic, and sophisticated, it’s hard not to instantly fall in love with Cellar Door. Nestled into the historic Arts Centre, you’ll sip and dine amongst heritage brick buildings and gaze out into the grass courtyard. With a wine list several pages long, and a menu that’ll make a michelin-starred chef blush, we can’t think of a single reason why you’d only have one drink.
Tussock Hill Vineyard
Sit on the sun-drenched balcony and gaze at the lush organic vineyard below at Tussock Hill Vineyard. Savour a glass of wine while you take in the panoramic view of Christchurch city looking out to the mountains, with native birdsong as your soundtrack. Choose items from their menu that are designed to be shared and indulge in exquisite locally sourced cuisine prepared by a renowned chef.
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