Top 10 Romantic Restaurants Christchurch

Suburban Rascal, established in 2020 within Longhurst Health in Halswell, offers a delightful array of brunch options. From French toast and chilli scrambled eggs to crusty sourdough bruschetta with harissa hummus, their menu promises a satisfying start to your day. Whether you dine in or grab a bite from their cabinet, Suburban Rascal ensures you're well-nourished before you head out.

Photography: Courtesy of Suburban Rascal

5^th Street in Christchurch’s inner-city suburb of Sydenham, prides itself on exceptional service with a local and seasonal menu of small, medium and large plates designed to share.  The restaurant itself is an old warehouse, lovingly redesigned with the use of recycled materials, and has a warm eclectic atmosphere. The menu is based around creative New Zealand cuisine catering for both carnivores and vegetarians. Open for dinner daily

Photography: Courtesy of 5th Street

The Tramway Restaurant in central Christchurch offers a unique and luxurious dining experience on New Zealand's only dining tramcar. Operating since 2000, Tram 411, a heritage tram built in Melbourne in 1927, combines curated seasonal dining with evening sightseeing. The premium menu showcases local cuisine and beverages served by professional wait staff amid the changing scenery of central Christchurch. The fine dining-style experience includes a welcome drink, starter, entrée, main, dessert, and tea or coffee. With a commitment to quality New Zealand produce, the menu caters to various dietary preferences, offering gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

Photography: Courtesy of Tramway Restaurant

Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar, located in Christchurch's Arts Precinct, offers a stylish and sociable atmosphere for diners. With an extensive range of beer, wine, and spirits, it's a sophisticated yet relaxed retreat. Guests can enjoy inventive dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced produce, reflecting the changing seasons. Whether indulging in breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Fiddlesticks caters to all tastes. Diners can soak up the ambiance while watching street side activity or gather around the outdoor fire in the sheltered courtyard.

Photography: Courtesy of Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar

The Goldfinch in Christchurch offers a sophisticated fusion of South East Asian and modern European cuisines, perfect for special occasions or intimate dining. Featuring dishes like Tom Yum Soup and Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls, it caters to both vegetarians and meat lovers with healthy options. The restaurant also boasts a diverse selection of exotic hand-crafted cocktails, enhancing the dining experience. Located in the heart of Christchurch Central City, The Goldfinch provides a casual yet refined atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking culinary excellence paired with innovative mixology in a stylish setting.

Photography: Courtesy of The Goldfinch

Discover the inviting ambiance of Soul Quarter in Stranges Lane, Christchurch. Whether enjoying fairy-lit courtyard dining in summer or cozy fireside meals in winter, Soul Quarter offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Every detail, from the thoughtfully curated drinks list to the chef's creative touches, is designed to delight. The menu showcases local, fresh, and seasonal produce, blending Louisiana, French, New Zealand, South, and Latin American flavours, with gluten-free, vegan, and diverse dietary options. The friendly front-of-house team ensures excellent service, and the well-lit bar features a stellar wine selection, craft beers, and in-house-designed cocktails, crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Photography: Courtesy of The Soul Quarter

Rogues of Rotherham invites guests to indulge in modern cuisine crafted with passion and artistry. Located in a cosy den, it offers a diverse menu inspired by New Zealand and European flavours. Whether it's a light brunch, hearty lunch, or sumptuous dinner, every dish is a culinary masterpiece. From cheese-covered pizzas to spaghetti carbonara, Rogues Bar caters to all tastes. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the week (closed Mondays and Sunday nights), it promises a welcoming ambiance for all occasions. Discover the essence of culinary sophistication where nature, craftsmanship, and love converge in every delightful bite at Rogues of Rotherham.

Photography: Courtesy of Rogues of Rotherham

Jaba Grill and Bar, located in Christchurch CBD, offers an upmarket bistro experience with Asian and European-inspired dishes, focusing on top-quality meat cuts and fresh, seasonal ingredients. From simple burgers to exotic wild boar curry, each dish promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Guests can unwind in a casual yet refined setting with their favourite cocktails or drinks. Ideal for special occasions or casual dining, Jaba Grill and Bar provides a welcoming ambiance with creative, delicious meals that cater to all tastes, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Photography: Courtesy of Jaba Grill and Bar

Curator's House Restaurant offers a taste of Spain in a 1920s heritage setting overlooking Christchurch's Botanic Gardens. Specialising in traditional Spanish cuisine, enjoy tapas, lamb, and paella alongside pescatarian, vegetarian, and vegan options. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, and Sunday for lunch, it's an ideal spot for dining amidst natural beauty.

Photography: Courtesy of Curator's House Restaurant

Chillingworth Road Restaurant offers an upscale New Zealand dining experience in a stylish, contemporary environment. Beyond serving award-winning cuisine from breakfast through to formal dinners, it doubles as a bar for after-work drinks. Their kitchen store complements the experience by sharing culinary secrets and allowing guests to take home a piece of Chillingworth Road. It's a culinary journey and a destination rolled into one, promising an immersive dining experience with a touch of elegance and a commitment to showcasing the best of New Zealand's flavours.

Photography: Courtesy of Chillingworth Road Restaurant