A Christchurch ritual: The Bealey Quarter

Some places become part of a city’s routine. Where locals meet friends after work, families celebrate milestones, and people settle in for a weekend stay or to enjoy a delicious meal… The Bealey Quarter has found its home within the buzz of city living. It’s a venue that’s continued to evolve while staying […]

Kirwee country charm: Thirsty Acres

A charming Kirwee bar and restaurant is the perfect place for escaping to the country. Nestled in the heart of Kirwee, just 25 minutes from Christchurch, Thirsty Acres is the ideal destination for those seeking a getaway that feels like a world away. Steeped in country charm and hospitality, the venue offers more […]

Geraldine gastropub: House of Hop

Old-fashioned hospitality, a petting zoo, craft beer, and real food made from scratch make this rural restaurant and brewery near Geraldine the perfect country escape. Located 10 kilometres from Geraldine, the House of Hop gastropub and brewery is so much more than a beautiful spot to get a great bite to eat. Set […]

Beer-battered fries

Serves: 4 Ingredients • 4 large potatoes, Agria or russet • Neutral oil for frying (beef tallow, lard, ghee, refined olive oil) • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 2 Tbsp cornstarch • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp garlic powder • 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet) • 1/2 tsp onion powder […]

Cabbages and kings

Want to cook cabbage like a chef from a Michelin restaurant? Try this recipe from Simon Levy of Michelin-star Christchurch restaurant Inati. Author Lewis Carroll wrote the now-famous “cabbages and kings” line into his poem, ‘The Walrus and the Carpenter’. In China, the cabbage is a symbol of prosperity, and two cities boast […]

Would you like fries with that? Makikihi Fries

How do you like your fries? Straight cut, steak cut, crinkle cut or jacket cut? The good news is, with Makikihi Fries, you don’t have to settle for just one favourite. Made from golden-flesh potatoes grown here in South Canterbury, Makikihi Fries have become a staple in Kiwi households, whether served alongside a […]

Red wine poached pears in puff pastry

Tracing back to medieval Europe and ancient Rome, when cooks used spiced wine poaching to soften unripened autumn cooking pears, this elegant dessert is a winner if you’re out to impress. Serves 4 Ingredients • 4 small firm pears, peeled • 750ml red wine • 1/2 cup caster sugar • 1 cinnamon stick […]

11 dog-friendly Christchurch eateries 11 dog-friendly Christchurch eateries

Where can you take your dog inside in mid-winter? Here’s our pick of the best local dog-friendly Canterbury cafés and pubs that go out of their way to welcome your best four-legged friend. Mid-winter can be tough for people with dogs. In summer, there is no shortage of cafés and bars that let […]

Double dining destination: The Mayor of Ale and Burj

Irish spice bags and arguably the best lamb shoulder in Christchurch stand out on the menus of this social dining duo on Riccarton Road. When lovers of local hospitality Sinead, Chris, Mark and Philippa came together to amplify The Mayor of Ale and Burj, they took a ‘double or nothing’ approach with side-by-side […]

Bringing the BBQ to you: Smoke Inc

Smoking hot functions and off-site catering are no problem when you have a mobile smoker on site to feed the troops. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, corporate event or family celebration, Smoke is making it easier than ever to enjoy authentic low-and-slow barbecue wherever the party is. What started as a small barbecue […]