Two Fat Possums

Your West Melton local: for pure pleasure and delight head in for a wood fired pizza at Two Fat Possums

Two Fat Possums is the perfect place to stop on your return leg from the ski fields of Mt Hutt. Since inception last year, it has gained a large following with locals. Anyone in West Melton after a quiet drink, dine or to hang out and soak up the friendly atmosphere should look no […]

Castle Rock Cafe

A delicious culinary find: Castle Rock Cafe is a gem tucked away in an industrial area with a stunning outlook to the Port Hills

Settled comfortably in the Heathcote hills, Castle Rock Café prides itself on catering to every taste. The café features a daily-changing cabinet full of fresh and baked seasonal products that complement the weekday menu, the tantalising all-day weekend menu and the sweets cabinet. With local, organic and free-range food, and with dietary options […]

Roots Restaurant

Taking root: Q&A with the couple behind Lyttleton’s Roots Restaurant

From an unassuming two-storey building on the main street of Lyttelton, a small restaurant is turning out some of the best food in the country. Headed by Giulio and Christy Sturla, Roots opened in London St in 2012 and has been making culinary waves in the port-side town. Metropol talks to the couple […]

Tony Astle

Tony Astle brings the Chiwahwah: questions and answers with a culinary empire-builder

Christchurch hospitality kingpin Tony Astle already heads a culinary empire, but now he’s bringing the Chiwahwah to town. Metropol talks to him about raising the bar – both literally and figuratively. When does Chiwahwah open and can you describe the cuisine and vibe you’re creating? We have only recently received our building consent […]

Black and White Coffee Cartel

Clever coffee creators: Black and White Coffee Cartel have been industriously working at providing an amazing coffee experience

One of the things you discover about Black and White Coffee Cartel when you drop in for a coffee is the company’s passion for satisfied customers – whether it’s the exquisite coffee, the ambient environment or the staff who serve you. It’s a culture consciously created to ensure every customer’s experience is one […]

Wigram Brewery

Winter tipples: we ask Andy Deuchars what’s brewing this winter at Wigram Brewery?

We recently caught up with Andy Deuchars from Wigram Brewery to discuss some of the company’s fine beers. With winter upon us, our attention is drawn to those darker brews such as the Czar Imperial Russian Stout, 8.5 percent. A big, black bitter beast. The red wine of beers that takes your palate […]

Hoon Hay Thai

Best kept oriental secret: Hoon Hay Thai is a must visit for lovers of thai cuisine

Hoon Hay Thai is one of the city’s best kept oriental secrets. Tucked away amongst the bustling shops of Coppell Place, it is the place to be for those after the definitive Thai dining experience. It’s become a local favourite since inception back in 2013, with many regular customers dropping by for lunch […]

Pink Ribbon High Tea at The george

High tea temptations: stick your pinkies out for the Pink Ribbon high teas at The George

The new Executive Chef of The George, Antony Page, recently filled us in on the new 50 Bistro winter menu heading our way, when the discussion moved to a charity function that runs close to Metropol’s heart – the Pink Ribbon Breakfast, supporting the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. The George is getting behind […]

Hanmer Bakery Cafe

Culinary heaven in Hanmer: The Hanmer Bakery Cafe is a culinary hotspot

Chances are, if you’ve been to Hanmer, you would have been to Hanmer Bakery Café. If not, you’re missing out on some of the best quality eats and drinks in town. Located in the heart of Hanmer Village, Hanmer Bakery Café is the definitive culinary hotspot for locals and holiday makers alike. Open […]

Seaweed

Seaweed spectacular: the delicious nutritious delights of this oceanic gourmet ingredient

It enjoys a great reputation in the context of its relationship with sushi, and plays an important role in miso soup, but have you ever stopped to consider the real benefits of seaweed? Incredibly rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, seawood may not be a pretty face but it’s got some incredible street […]