So cheesy. By Nina Tucker
For six years running, my better half and I have marked Valentine’s Day with easy, cheesy, homemade pizzas. We make the dough, shape it into hearts, and cover it with our preferred toppings. It’s so simple yet so special – an incredibly intimate date night activity and dinner in one. INGREDIENTS 2 tsp […]
Loco for cocoa: Mind Your Temper
Going to the dark side isn’t a bad thing when you’re talking about chocolate. From melt-in-the-mouth chocolate truffles to whipped chocolate creams, ganache, caramels, bon bons, pralines, and more, Valentine’s and Galentine’s is the perfect excuse to go chocolate crazy. Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen gets the lowdown on what’s hot in local […]
Apricot tarte tatin
Golden, sticky and best enjoyed warm, this apricot tarte tatin captures a Canterbury summer at its sweetest – sun-ripened fruit, long evenings and just enough indulgence. INGREDIENTS 6–8 ripe apricots, halved, stones removed 1/2 cup sugar (white or light brown) 50g butter 1 tsp vanilla Optional twist (choose one): lemon zest or thyme […]
Super easy square truffles: Mind Your Temper
Has all this talk of chocolate inspired you to try making your own at home? Mind Your Temper chocolatier Nel Vincencio says this is the easiest recipe he knows for beginners. INGREDIENTS • 250g 70% dark chocolate • 1 Tbsp coconut oil • 75ml liquid (water, cream, coconut milk, or almond milk) METHOD […]
Kiwi classics & Sunday roasts: Hoi Polloi
Classic flavours, a cosy atmosphere, and good vibes make this bar and bistro a hot spot for dining and entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Christchurch’s vibrant entertainment precinct, The Hoi Polloi Bar and Bistro in the Carnmore Hotel on Colombo Street is a firm local favourite. Open for breakfast and dinner seven […]
Tradition meets taste: The Bridge Prebbleton
One year into refining and reopening a bustling Prebbleton favourite, hospitality veterans Murray and Melissa Smith feel incredibly grateful. Sorely missed during its three-year-long closure and refurbishment, The Bridge welcomed Prebbleton locals and keen visitors when it opened its doors again. “What a year it has been,” says co-owner Melissa Smith. “From carefully […]
Let’s go crazy: Crazy Horse Hammersley
A joyful mix of cuisines and cultures, come for the food and stay for the experience. Craving steak and roast potatoes? Can’t stop thinking about Thai food? Fancy pizza or pasta? Look no further. At Crazy Horse Hammersley in Shirley, owners Jules and Jummi have embraced the spirit of creating a menu that […]
Relax, refresh: Dux Dine Bar
Introducing the spot to soak up the last of summer. Eat, drink, socialise – Dux Dine Bar and Restaurant at 28 Riccarton Road blends relaxed garden charm with top-quality food, making it the destination for sunny catch-ups, weekend celebrations, and long lunches that stretch into the evening. This Christchurch favourite offers an inviting […]
Mike Pero’s protein-packed brekky bowl
Entrepreneur, businessman, and family man Mike Pero took his cholesterol into his own hands after a heart health scare. He eats clean and with purpose from Monday to Friday, sharing one of his favourite ‘ritual’ recipes – this chia protein breakfast bowl. INGREDIENTS 2 dessert spoons chia seeds 1 tsp pumpkin seeds 1 […]
The 5-minute feel-good bowl
Ready to nail your health goals in 2026? This superfood salad does the trick. Local holistic wellness coach and yoga teacher Alex Ballagh shares this salad recipe with a detox dressing. “I give this recipe to most of my private clients because it’s so good. The rocket and lemon support the liver and […]
