4 Best Restaurants in Christchurch and Canterbury, New Zealand

Roots

$$$$ Fodor's choice
It's well worth making the journey to this award-winning haven for honest food, made from scratch by passionate people, using local organic and biodynamic ingredients. The philosophy here is all about bringing high-quality produce to the table, from the owners' garden, preserve cellar, and foraged nature. The degustation menu from the open kitchen includes seasonal specialties like blackfoot paua (abalone), Muscovy duck, wagyu beef, long-line caught fish, and guinea fowl.
Modern New Zealand Dinner $$$$ Fodor's Choice
8 London St., Lyttelton, Canterbury, 8082, New Zealand
03-328--7658
www.rootsrestaurant.co.nz
Known For
  • <PRO>eight-course degustation menu of seasonal and local products that changes every three months</PRO>
  • <PRO>wonderful wine pairings</PRO>
  • <PRO>open-kitchen setting</PRO>
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Reservations essential

Civil and Naval

$$

This cozy haunt is packed with locals who come for the tasty tapas-style food, produced in a tiny kitchen, and the excellent cocktails. There's an eclectic selection of international and New Zealand wines, spirits, and craft beers.

Tapas Lunch Dinner Quick Bite $$
16 London St., Lyttelton, Canterbury, 8082, New Zealand
03-328--7206
www.civilandnaval.nz
Known For
  • green courtyard on sunny days and cozy log fires in winter
  • inventive cocktails created by a master barman
  • beautifully executed and affordable food

Lyttelton Coffee Company

$$
Well-known for its excellent coffee available in many Christchurch cafés, this is the home of the legendary roastery and plenty of hearty fare to match. Great service and an arty atmosphere mean this heritage building is buzzing from early morning until late afternoon every day.
Breakfast Café Lunch $$
29 London St., Lyttelton, Canterbury, 8082, New Zealand
No phone
Known For
  • some of the best coffee in the region
  • outdoor deck with fabulous views over the harbor
  • freshly baked muffins big enough for two
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: No dinner

Recommended Fodor's Video

Super

$$$

This eatery's clever take on Asian fusion has won rave reviews from locals thanks to its selection of carefully crafted dishes that are perfect for sharing. It's set in the beautiful Old Royal Hotel Building on the waterfront, and the atmosphere is stylish and relaxed.

Asian Fusion Brunch Dinner Lunch $$$
5 Norwich Quay, Lyttelton, Canterbury, 8082, New Zealand
021-0862–2632
www.super.restaurant
Known For
  • tasty okonomiyaka (Japanese pancakes with a twist)
  • locally sourced, organic produce with lots of vegan options
  • intriguing desserts